Are the Bills Planning on a Position Switch for Dion Dawkins?

In today’s Buffalo Bills news, reports by draft analysts Tony Pauline and Daniel Jeremiah came out linking Jonah Williams to the Bills at the ninth overall pick. Draft speculation often spreads like wildfire, but an offensive lineman has long been considered a likely pick in the early rounds of the upcoming draft. Even before this report and all of the team’s offensive line free agency signings, it still made sense for the Bills to shore up what was a historically bad line. And with the Bills now seemingly unhappy with Dion Dawkins at left tackle, it appears as if McBeane will aggressively target a top tackle on draft night. Thus the question becomes: what happens with Dawkins?

Luckily Dawkins is a versatile player, and has played well at both left and right tackle during his time in the league. During the 2017 draft process, many draft gurus even predicted Dawkins would be moved to guard. But the Bills have signed seven offensive linemen in free agency, leaving Dawkins with established competition at guard and right tackle. Prior to this report, it’s been widely assumed Ty Nsekhe, Quinton Spain, and Mitch Morse would be the three free agent signings penciled in as starters. That leaves Dawkins to battle with LaAdrian Waddle and Spencer Long for a starting guard spot.

Dawkins could fit well at guard, considering he has occasionally struggled at dealing with speed off of the edge. He’s a big body at 6’5″ and 320lbs, and moves decently for his size. His pass blocking ability would complement Spain’s ability to run block, and give the interior line three bonafide starters. Picture this starting lineup:

• Left Tackle: Williams/Jawaan Taylor/Andre Dillard
• Left Guard: Dion Dawkins
• Center: Mitch Morse
• Right Guard: Quinton Spain
• Right Tackle: Ty Nsekhe

That lineup is unrecognizable in comparison to last years sorry excuse for an offensive line. In fact, it gives the Bills a pro bowler, three established starters, and a blue chip prospect at left tackle. This offensive line could quickly become one of the league’s top units. Furthermore, it’ll undoubtedly provide an identity for the offense. So yeah, if this report turns out to be true, the Bills are probably planning on moving Dawkins down the line.