Bills Draft Target? Making Case for UCF WR Javon Baker
If you’ve read a mock draft this offseason, there’s a good chance you’ve seen the Buffalo Bills draft a receiver with the 28th overall pick.
That’s certainly in play and is easily the most popular outcome. But in the event Buffalo opts for a defensive talent in the first round, the draft’s second day may be where Stefon Diggs’ sidekick – or replacement – is found.
If that’s the case, UCF receiver Javon Baker could be a strong fit for the Bills offense, even if he doesn’t come in the mold of many of Buffalo’s most frequent targets.
Dec 22, 2023; Tampa, FL, USA; UCF Knights wide receiver Javon Baker (1) catches a pass for a touchdown in front of UCF Knights defensive back Ja'Maric Morris (18) during the first half of the Gasparilla Bowl at Raymond James Stadium.
Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Baker is a senior who is coming off his best collegiate season, putting up 1,139 yards and seven scores. His stock seems to reside around the end of Day 2, but with the NFL Scouting Combine around the corner and pro days yet to proceed, there’s time for his stock to improve.
Unlike LSU’s Brian Thomas Jr., Oregon’s Troy Franklin, or South Carolina’s Xavier Legette, Baker doesn’t profile as a plug-and-play Gabe Davis replacement despite the connection the two have as UCF Knights. He’s not a burner, nor does he consistently stretch the field.
That doesn’t mean he can’t make an impact.
Baker possesses both inside and outside versatility. He’s at his best making contested catches thanks to strong hands and technique that make him one of the more consistent receivers in this class. It’s easy to see him earning Josh Allen’s trust as a dependable target, something emphasized by his out-of-structure instincts.
He can move across the formation and find looks over the middle of the field, and he may unlock Diggs and Shakir. Baker does enough along the boundary to earn snaps as the X-receiver but can forfeit some snaps to Diggs if he’s asked to play on the other side of the formation. In the past, Diggs, Davis, and an assortment of slot receivers would have defined roles. Baker could make them less predictable.
Of course, losing Davis means his deep-threat abilities have left for greener pastures, too. Baker isn’t as skilled here. However, he’s a physical receiver who can high-point well, winning above the rim to remain viable downfield.
It may not come in the shape fans expect, but a consistent ancillary target is one of Buffalo’s needs. Finding one without using premium draft capital may be worth the drop-off in upside a Baker acquisition would provide.
