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Buffalo Bills 2021 NFL Draft preview: 3 ideal first round targets

By Brad Vos

Brandon Beane was disappointed the NFL cut prospect interviews at the Combine down from 60 to 45.Img 3090
Brandon Beane was disappointed the NFL cut prospect interviews at the Combine down from 60 to 45.Img 3090 /
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Buffalo Bills
Northwestern Wildcats defensive back Greg Newsome II (2). (Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports) /

Buffalo Bills beef up the secondary by selecting Greg Newsome II in NFL Draft

If Beane does not want to help the line put pressure on the quarterback during the first round, then aiding the secondary would be a logical choice. Newsome II would definitely fit the bill for a Bills team that was 13th against the pass in 2020.

Tre’Davious White led the team last season with three interceptions as the Bills picked off 15 passes in total. Adding Newsome II to the mix would make for a terrifying blend of talent on the back end.

The former Northwestern Wildcat was a lockdown defender in 2020 whom opposing teams rarely tested. He finished the shortened six-game season with one interception and nine pass break ups.

At 6’1″ and 190 pounds, Newsome II could bulk up a little in the NFL but he is an ideal fit in Buffalo’s defence. Opposing teams would have very few options left to throw to with Newsome II and White together.

The 20-year-old missed eight games as a freshman and three more as a sophomore but his blend of speed and ball skills will make him very hard to pass on if he is still there at 30. Kelly describes Newsome II as a ‘long, playmaking cornerback with balance ball skills, and instincts in coverage’.

"Newsome got a handful of reps in the slot but primarily aligned on the outside. He plays in a low, balanced stance that helps him react quickly and change direction on a dime. He’s very reactive in coverage and regularly runs opposing receivers routes for them. He has a smooth backpedal and quick feet, and doesn’t lose any speed or balance when he flips his hips to run with opponents. He is a natural in half-turn technique, where he can keep his eyes in the backfield and get an early break on routes."

Beane may well be dreaming of pairing Newsome II with White and daring opposing quarterbacks to throw on them.

Other possible players for the Bills to consider in the secondary: Trevon Moehrig, Safety (TCU), Tyson Campbell (Georgia), Caleb Farley (Virginia Tech) – a no brainer if he slips to 30

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