Buffalo Bills: Rookie Dawson Knox the early favorite to start at tight end

Recent reports suggest that Buffalo Bills rookie Dawson Knox could be in line to start this season.

The Buffalo Bills landing Dawson Knox late in the third round was one of my favorite picks of the entire 2019 NFL Draft. Knox did not put up huge numbers in college, but he showed a lot of potential as a receiver on tape and enters the league as a ready-made blocker.

Knox is a quick and explosive athlete who shows soft hands and catches the ball well in traffic. He is also impressive in the run after catch department, showing good elusiveness for a tight end and strong power when finishing a run.

As a blocker, Knox shows quick feet and powerful hands. He is an extremely tough player who is not afraid to mix it up on the inside. Overall, he has the ability to be a top-tier blocking tight end at the next level.

Knox has taken advantage of injuries to Tyler Kroft and Jason Croom to make the most out of his opportunities in OTAs. According to Bills’ reporter Josh Reed, Knox is getting the first team reps and looks good on the field.

Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com was also extremely complimentary of Knox’s play in OTAs.

"“The third-round pick (Knox) has taken advantage of the reps and is making plays in the passing game,” Brown wrote. “On the third play from scrimmage during a 9 vs. 9 team segment, Josh Allen found Knox on a crossing route for a touchdown for a 25-yard scoring play.”“Knox has definitely shown off his ability to cover a lot of ground quickly on his routes as he gained good separation on a handful of assignments,” Brown continued. “He deftly toed the sideline on a throw from Allen during 11-on-11 while reaching above his head to make the catch for a 15-yard pickup. And in red zone he pulled in a nice crossing route from Allen to set up what would’ve been a first-and-goal situation.”"

Bills wide receiver Zay Jones was also impressed with Knox’s play on the field.

"“We’ve had some tight ends go down recently, but guys have stepped up,” Jones said, according to Brown. “One person in particular has been Dawson. I think he’s doing a great job right now. Guys are coming in and making plays in this offense.”"

Clearly, Knox is turning heads at OTAs and is undoubtedly a threat to start for the Buffalo Bills as a rookie. He has the skill set to be a real asset at the tight end position for the Bills and if he can find a rapport with quarterback Josh Allen, Knox undoubtedly has a chance to make an immediate impact.

The Buffalo Bills nailed a majority of their picks in the 2019 NFL Draft. Snagging Knox in the late third could quickly prove to be the best value selection of the bunch.