Three defensive line targets for the Buffalo Bills in the 2023 NFL Draft

Defensive linemen are undeniably a favorite early draft target for Bills GM Brandon Beane. The 2022 NFL Draft marked the first time since 2018 that he didn't leave the first two rounds without selecting one.

During last week's news conference, Beane expressed concern about the defensive line's depth, potentially implying he may begin a new streak. DTs Ed Oliver, DaQuan Jones, Tim Settle and Jordan Phillips are all free agents after the season, making now the perfect time to secure a long-term option.

Buffalo holds the 27th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, scheduled for April 27-29 in Kansas City, though it could trade the selection depending on how the draft unfolds. Beane told reporters he's "more likely to [trade] back than [trade] up," therefore, here are three defensive line prospects he could target in the first two rounds of the draft:

Mazi Smith, Michigan 

Height: 6-foot-3 Weight: 323 pounds

Despite allowing the fourth-fewest rushing yards last season, Buffalo's defense was exposed in the snowy Divisional Round loss to Cincinnati, surrendering 172 yards on the ground. Last season, Smith recorded 48 tackles, 2.5 for loss and a half-sack, not all that impressive on paper, though rushing the passer wasn't part of his role at Michigan.

The All-Big Ten first-teamer excelled as a run stuffer and was instrumental in the Wolverines' stout rushing defense, which earned the third-highest grade in the category from Pro Football Focus. 

Smith opted to forgo on-field drills at the NFL Scouting Combine, but he did participate in the bench press portion and made the most of his opportunity. During the workout, Smith completed the most reps of the standard 225-pound weight for a defensive tackle (34) and was tied for second among all participants.

Based on his college production and his performance in Indianapolis, the Next Gen Stats Draft Model predicts that Smith will develop into a plus starter in the NFL.