The Buffalo Bills are scheduled to meet with Clemson linebacker Dorian O’Daniel, according to the Houston Chronicle’s Aaron Wilson.
O’Daniel really fits the mold of the traditional Sean McDermott-player. At 6-foot, 223 pounds, he’s the ideal size for a modern linebacker. He’s relatively athletic, and he’s versatile. O’Daniel played on special teams at Clemson, and he strived in the role. He recorded 48 special teams tackles throughout his career.
O’Daniel didn’t get the opportunity to start fulltime until the 2017 season, but he made the most out of the opportunity. The outside linebacker totaled 88 tackles, five sacks, and two interceptions last season. He was a finalist for the Butkus Award, an award that is annually given out to college football’s best linebacker.
The biggest knock on O’Daniel is his lack of starting experience. He’s only been a starter for one season. However, he was extremely productive as a starter. He’s also an elite special teamer, and McDermott values players who can contribute on special teams.
O’Daniel can perhaps best be described as a developmental linebacker. He likely won’t be able to start on defense right away, but he could develop into a serviceable starter. O’Daniel would also be able to effectively play on special teams in his rookie season. By selecting O’Daniel, the Bills would receive a solid special teams player with a fair bit of potential.
