While the Buffalo Bills might have signed Kevin Kolb in the offseason to be their new franchise quarterback, that is not stopping them from targeting a quarterback with their first pick in the NFL Draft. Kolb is the team's short-term answer, but a rookie quarterback could set the team up for long-term success. The Bills are in desperate need to bring some stability to the franchise and a first-round quarterback could help. The team was reportedly targeting Ryan Nassib, but after receiving pressure from the New York Jets, Matt Barkley is now moving into the picture.
Nassib was perceived as the logical first pick for the Bills at No. 8. New head coach Doug Marrone is extremely familiar with Nassib after coaching him at Syracuse. He seems like the best fit for the team. Marrone would be able to build the offense around Nassib's strengths. However, the Bills could be using their relationship with Nassib as a smokescreen to draft a different quarterback.
The New York Jets are threatening to draft a quarterback with their first pick. The Bills are feeling the pressure that they may take Nasssib, so in return they are highly considering Barkley instead. SI.com's Peter King reports that the Bills have placed a higher grade on Barkley. While his arm-strength and overall health is a concern, Marrone has voiced his praise for the quarterback in the past. Barkley ripped apart Syracuse during his junior year in 2011.
Nassib might have been the top target until the Jets began to toss out interest in drafting a quarterback. It has been well-reported that the team is not satisfied with Mark Sanchez and is not intent with any other quarterback on the roster for that matter. Drafting a quarterback could mean better job security for Rex Ryan if they can get someone that looks to be a starter in the future.
All of this is typical for teams as the first-round of the draft quickly approaches. Smokescreens begin to go up as teams want to protect their first choice. Either the Bills or the Jets are bluffing and only time will tell whether Nassib or Barkley will go first.
