According to a report by Jordan Schultz, the Buffalo Bills were among the clubs sending personnel to watch defensive tackle Jer’Zhan “Johnny” Newton’s pro day at Illinois on Tuesday afternoon.
Newton was amazed, “showcasing elite explosion and power after a Jones fracture that he’s fully healed from,” according to Schultz.
There are several more players that have excited clubs when contemplating their possible fit, even though the Bills’ need at receiver and the receiver possibilities dominating the 2024 NFL Draft are constantly brought up.
Despite the setback with his injury, Johnny Newton is one of the players who will most likely hear his name called on the first night of the draft. The interior defensive line has benefited greatly with the addition of One Bills Drive, strengthening a group that will likely again start defensive tackles Da’Quan Jones and Ed Oliver.
However, given the team’s inclination to switch up players during games in order to maintain a robust and fresh inside attack, there’s reason to think the Bills will try to add one or more talented rookies to the mix.
If nothing else, the Buffalo Bills’ attendance at Newton’s pro day demonstrates their serious interest in trying to get him to Orchard Park, New York. For all 32 NFL teams, everything is up for grabs at this time of year. Buffalo needs a receiver, and there are 31 teams that are aware of this. As such, general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott should prepare for any situation that can arise. Teams may use strategy to divert the best pass catchers from the Bills.
If that turns out to be the case, the team may greatly benefit from being able to acquire a defensive prospect with blue-chip potential and postpone receiving assistance until later in the draft. At 6’2″ and 280 pounds, Newton poses a serious defensive threat to offensive coordinators and players.
Throughout his four seasons with Illinois, Newton—a hard-hitting interior defensive tackle—made 187 tackles (80 solo), 27.5 tackles for loss, 18 sacks, five pass defenses, three fumble recoveries, and two forced fumbles.
The Buffalo Bills now have a better understanding of Johnny Newton as a prospect and how well he fits into their scheme, should he be available when Buffalo is in the running. This is because of their attendance on his pro day.
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