The Buffalo Bills orchestrated a formidable rushing offense last season, largely propelled by James Cook’s breakout performance. However, as they gear up for the 2024 season, they find themselves lacking depth in the running back position.
Following Cook’s impressive 1,000-yard season, the Bills opted to part ways with most of their veteran running backs, such as Latavius Murray, Damien Harris, Nyheim Hines, and Leonard Fournette, through free agency or releases. While Ty Johnson returned after a solid stint as the backup to Cook, the team still seeks a power element to complement their rushing game.
According to The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia, the Bills are poised to address this issue by adding a running back in the later rounds of the NFL Draft. Buscaglia suggests that the team may opt for South Dakota State running back Isaiah Davis with the No. 204 overall pick. Davis’s versatility and capability to contribute across various aspects of the game make him a favorable choice, as per Buscaglia.
Described by NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein as a “Brinks-truck runner,” Davis possesses the size and strength to break tackles and gain additional yards after contact. Zierlein highlights Davis’s physicality, footwork, and potential to play all three downs, despite the need to improve decisiveness and agility to succeed at the professional level.
Last season, the Bills received limited production from their power running backs, with Murray, Fournette, and Harris contributing minimally before Harris sustained a season-ending neck injury. With a desire to minimize quarterback Josh Allen’s exposure to hits in the rushing game, the Bills are keen on bolstering their running back corps.
While many analysts anticipate the Bills focusing on acquiring receivers in the draft, particularly after the departure of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis, General Manager Brandon Beane stresses the importance of versatility in the new pass-catchers, emphasizing the ability to generate yards after the catch.