The Buffalo Bills have shown they mean business in the 2025 NFL Draft by focusing on defense. With their first three picks, they’ve zeroed in on important spots to strengthen their defense, looking to create a solid squad for the upcoming season.

In the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft with their 30th pick, Buffalo went a bit off the beaten path and chose Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston. Some fans were hoping to see Michigan’s Will Johnson picked, but Hairston has some solid potential and could turn out to be a great find.

Why Hairston? Hairston stands 6’1 and weighs 185 pounds. He had a standout season in 2023 with 5 interceptions and 12 pass breakups in the SEC. But the real eye-opener was his 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the combine. That speed, combined with his instincts and ball skills, makes him a threat on the field and a future asset in Buffalo’s defense. He’s got good skills in man coverage, has an eye for the ball, and plays with the kind of grit that McDermott and Beane appreciate. He might not be a starter right off the bat, but you can count on him making an impact on special teams and in specialized packages right away.

What About Will Johnson? Sure, Will Johnson was available and ranked higher by many. But just before the draft, there were reports about some knee issues that could be a concern long-term. The Bills didn’t want to gamble a first-round pick on a player with potential health risks, so they opted for Hairston who has a better medical background.Which in my opinion is a decision that tells us about the Bills’ draft philosophy this year, focusing on reliability and long-term upside over immediate hype.

Also, Bills fans will love this guy, as Hairston has an incredible character shown with how in the green room he shook hands with most draft picks, when they walked across the stage showing his approachability, support and love for the game. Also, when on the phone with Josh Allen, after he was picked his first words were “Let’s go get us a Super Bowl”. Which tells fans all they need to know about his character and what he is bringing back to Buffalo.

In the second round, with the 41st pick the Bills picked up TJ Sanders, a defensive tackle from South Carolina. He’s quick off the line and really knows how to put pressure in the pocket. Last season, he had 7.5 sacks and plays with a nonstop energy that fits right into McDermott’s defensive line.

Then in the third round, with the 72nd pick they continued building the defense with Landon Jackson, an edge rusher from Arkansas. At 6’7”, he’s a physical specimen with long arms. He’s still working on his pass-rushing skills, but he’s tough against the run and has the potential to be a solid situational rusher. He’s definitely a project, but someone with the talent to develop in Buffalo’s system.

So, while the first-round pick might have caught some off guard, this draft is looking like a hardworking group with a lot of potential. Hairston, Sanders, and Jackson might not be the biggest names out there, but they bring toughness, speed, and a lot of promise.

On Day 3 who are you hoping they’ll pick next?