Bills' Perfect 2026 NFL Draft Pick May Be Cashius Howell

ESPN analyst sees linebacker as ideal fit for Buffalo's defense

Mar. 31, 2026 at 4:57pm

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A fragmented, cubist-style painting depicting the angular, geometric forms of a linebacker making a tackle, conveying the complex physicality and strategic elements of the position.A conceptual illustration capturing the dynamic, multi-faceted nature of a top linebacker prospect like Cashius Howell, who could be an ideal fit for the Bills' evolving defense.Buffalo Today

The Buffalo Bills have often been projected to take a wide receiver in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft, but ESPN's Matt Bowen sees things differently. In a new article, Bowen names his "favorite fits" for various teams across the NFL, and for the Bills, he believes linebacker Cashius Howell would be the perfect selection.

Why it matters

The Bills have made some key defensive additions in free agency, including edge rusher Bradley Chubb, but landing Howell in the draft could give them an impactful player in sub packages to further bolster their unit under new coordinator Jim Leonhard.

The details

Bowen believes Howell's versatility and ability to play both inside and outside linebacker would make him an ideal fit for the Bills' defense. The analyst sees Howell as a player who can excel in coverage, rush the passer, and provide physicality against the run.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April.

The players

Cashius Howell

A highly touted linebacker prospect projected to be a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Bradley Chubb

A veteran edge rusher who the Bills signed in free agency to bolster their defense.

Jim Leonhard

The Bills' new defensive coordinator who will be tasked with leading their unit in 2026.

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What they’re saying

“The Bills signed veteran edge rusher Bradley Chubb in free agency to play under new coordinator Jim Leonhard, but landing Howell would give them an impact player in sub packages.”

— Matt Bowen, ESPN Analyst

What’s next

The Bills will continue to evaluate their options for the 2026 NFL Draft, with linebacker being a potential position of focus as they look to further strengthen their defense.

The takeaway

The Bills have been linked to wide receivers in many 2026 mock drafts, but ESPN's Matt Bowen believes linebacker Cashius Howell could be the perfect fit for their defense, providing versatility and playmaking ability to complement their recent free agent additions.