Buffalo Rumblings
What does the tape tell us about Ezeiruaku?
Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane made a number of moves in free agency to bring in a fresh wave of defensive line talent for 2025. However, by adding both Joey Bosa and Michael Hoecht, the team could still use more help. Bosa isn’t necessarily someone to be counted on for much beyond the role of situational pass rusher, and Hoecht will miss the first six games while serving a suspension for a failed performance enhancing drugs test
The best path for Buffalo to take may once again be the NFL Draft. In a deep class, the Bills may be able to land another bookend edge rusher to pair with Greg Rousseau in the long term.
Donovan Ezeiruaku (Boston College) could be the just the medicine for what’s ailed Buffalo’s defensive line. He had a magnificent season in 2024, totaling 16.5 sacks, 37 tackles and three forced fumbles.
Let’s see what the tape says about Ezeiruaku, who’s currently viewed as a fringe first-round prospect.
Pre-snap, Ezeiruaku is on the right of the defensive line on the outside shoulder of the offensive tackle. At the snap, Ezeiruaku rushed the passer then stopped when the quarterback threw the screen to the running back. Ezeiruaku than chased down the back from behind to make the tackle.
Here we see Ezeiruaku show off his speed as a pass rusher. At the snap Ezeiruaku lined up on the outside shoulder of the offensive tackle with Syracuse in shotgun. Once the ball was snapped Ezeiruaku showed great get-off then dipped his shoulder and beat the tackle in a foot race, forcing the quarterback hit.
The ability to play the run is an important aspect of any pass rusher’s game. During this play North Carolina used the tight end as a lead blocker on Ezeiruaku. He held his ground and went horizontal with the tight end until he shed the block and made the tackle on the running back.
Donovan Ezeiruaku has the potential to be a double-digit sack artist in the NFL, but he can do far more than rush the passer. He’s shown the ability to be a force in the run game as well, and he’s been a general headache for plenty of offensive systems.
The athletic Ezeiruaku brings a wealth of pass-rushing potential thanks to a large chest of moves. He’s someone who may very well be available should the Bills stand firm and and pick at 30 in Round 1.
How big of an addition could Ezeiruaku be for Buffalo’s defense if he lands with the Bills next month?
