2021 NFL Draft: Five trade-up targets for the Buffalo Bills

2. Rashawn Slater, OT, Northwestern

Like Pitts, Rashawn Slater could come in and make an immediate impact for Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills offense. Whether it comes at tackle or guard, Slater would come in and start right away, keep Allen upright and help a nearly nonexistent run game.

While Penei Sewell is likely to be the first tackle off the board in the 2021 NFL Draft, Slater’s versatility could make him an even more valuable asset. Even as a true left tackle, Slater is neck-and-neck with Sewell at the top of the position.

Slater is mechanically sound in his pass sets, holding his own against some of the best edge rushers in the league. In the run game, Slater operates with a mean streak and moves very well for a man of his size.

Last season, the Buffalo Bills offensive line was far from stellar. While they were decent enough to allow Josh Allen to turn in an MVP caliber season, an elevated level of play would allow him to tap into even more of his potential.

To land Slater, the Bills would likely have to jump into the top 10. While there is a chance that he could drop outside the top 10, the Bills would certainly have to make a big move for a player of Slater’s caliber.

Although offensive line help doesn’t seem like a need that the Buffalo Bills have to chase, they need to look ahead to their future. Dion Dawkins has been a fine player at left tackle, but is he a true franchise left tackle? Slater would be an immediate upgrade at guard (where he has collegiate experience) and could be a star left tackle for years to come.