2016 NFL Draft: Buffalo Bills Targeting QB Kevin Hogan Would Make Sense

Heading into the 2016 NFL offseason, it was apparent that the Buffalo Bills would need help at the quarterback position. Despite having a solid starter in Tyrod Taylor, the team needed a better backup than former first-round bust EJ Manuel, and they were expected to address the position in free agency or the draft. Since the Bills failed to add a quarterback in free agency, it is fair to assume that they will be looking to draft a player to fill the hole, and Stanford’s Kevin Hogan may end up being their best option.

Recently, the Bills GM Doug Whaley commented that the most pro-ready quarterback in this draft was Hogan. Despite the impressive workouts of Jared Goff and Carson Wentz, Whaley showered Hogan with praise, making it seem as though he is going to pursue the quarterback in the draft. If Hogan is available in the third or fourth round, I would expect Whaley to pull the trigger and solidify the team’s backup position.

In terms of production and intangibles, Hogan may be the most underrated passer in this draft class. Once considered a late round pick, Hogan played extremely well in his last season at Stanford, completing 68 percent of his passes and tossing 27 touchdowns with only eight picks. He does not have the best arm strength, but that shouldn’t be a huge problem for him.

His ability to throw accurate passes will make him a great option behind Taylor, as he will be able to come into a game and be a terrific game manager for the Bills. This will be critical, especially considering that Taylor had some durability issues last season, and playing Manuel in his place was a disaster.

Also, Hogan has decent mobility and he will likely be able to transition easily into the pro game thanks to his intelligence and work ethic. He has great qualities, and it really is a mystery as to why he is not getting more attention. Perhaps if he performs well in pre-draft workouts he will rise even higher.

At the end of the day, Hogan may end up going behind passers like Cardale Jones and Christian Hackenberg, but he could end up being a superior player. He has a high floor, and his skill set will make him a solid backup who will fit in very well with the Bills.