{"id":868755,"date":"2026-04-17T23:48:41","date_gmt":"2026-04-17T23:48:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/868755\/"},"modified":"2026-04-17T23:48:41","modified_gmt":"2026-04-17T23:48:41","slug":"four-potential-buffalo-bills-draft-targets-who-can-replace-qb-mitch-trubisky","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rawchili.com\/nfl\/868755\/","title":{"rendered":"Four Potential Buffalo Bills’ Draft Targets Who Can Replace QB Mitch Trubisky"},"content":{"rendered":"

Thankfully, it’s another draft season where the Buffalo Bills<\/a> don’t have to worry about finding the next QB1.<\/p>\n

Five-time NFL MVP finalist Josh Allen, who recently became a new father, has already reported for duty<\/a> as the Bills kicked off Organized Team Activities (OTAs) back on April 7.<\/p>\n

The Bills, however, will have a different backup quarterback in 2026 as a result of Mitch Trubisky leaving<\/a> for the Tennessee Titans in free agency.<\/p>\n

\"Mitch<\/p>\n

Jan 4, 2026; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Mitchell Trubisky (11) scrambles with the ball defended by New York Jets linebacker Jermaine Johnson (11) during the third quarter at Highmark Stadium. | Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

While Buffalo signed familiar faces Shane Buechele and Kyle Allen earlier this offseason, the most economical option moving forward may be to draft and develop an understudy on a rookie contract.<\/p>\n

With five selections on Day 3 at the upcoming NFL Draft, the Bills seemingly have the means to pick a lesser-hyped quarterback prospect with upside. For reference, Buffalo last drafted a quarterback in 2020, using a fifth-round pick on Georgia’s Jake Fromm. <\/p>\n

Here are four draft-eligible quarterbacks who project as worthwhile late-round values.<\/p>\n

Jalon Daniels, Kansas<\/p>\n

We initially wrote about Daniels<\/a> when it was reported that he attended a private workout for the Bills.<\/p>\n

Daniels, the first four-time team captain in Kansas history, did not miss a start either of his last two seasons, accounting for 36 touchdown passes and 10 touchdown rushes over that span. The sixth-year senior amassed the second-highest career passing total (9,282 yards) in program annals.<\/p>\n

The dual threat, who ran a 4.65 in the 40 at the NFL Combine, reportedly impressed during his time at the East West Shrine Bowl. Due to potential limitations as a passer at the next level, Daniels projects as a career reserve.<\/p>\n

\"Jalon<\/p>\n

Nov 22, 2025; Ames, Iowa, USA; Kansas Jayhawks quarterback Jalon Daniels (6) runs the football against the Iowa State Cyclones during the second half | Reese Strickland-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Derek Robertson, Monmouth<\/p>\n

Anyone who follows the NCAA FCS is surely familiar with Robertson, who led the subdivision in passing<\/a> (337.8 ypg) over the past two seasons.<\/p>\n

After his 2025 Walter Payton award candidacy was derailed by a mid-season wrist injury that required surgery on his non-throwing hand, the gritty field general fought his way back onto the field in time for the FCS Playoffs, only to see a nine-win Monmouth team snubbed by the selection committee.<\/p>\n

Robertson, who stands a fraction under 6-foot-2, has above-average arm strength, and the cerebral passer made a habit of throwing receivers open during his time at the Jersey Shore. Whether it’s late in the draft, or as a priority free agent, some team is going to get the perfect developmental backup.<\/p>\n

\"Derek<\/p>\n

Monmouth quarterback Derek Robertson passes against Lafayette in West Long Branch, N.J. on Sept. 7, 2024 | Peter Ackerman \/ USA TODAY NETWORK<\/p>\n

Drew Allar, Penn State<\/p>\n

At one point, the former five-star high school recruit was on pace to earn a first-round draft grade. Now, Allar, who broke his ankle this past October<\/a>, is likely to last until Day 3.<\/p>\n

While the 6-foot-5 Allar has the size and arm strength that should translate well to the NFL level, his inconsistency and questionable in-game decision making have raised questions. He did not perform well prior to the injury, leading Penn State to an 0-3 conference start.<\/p>\n

Buffalo has an advantage in the evaluation process when it comes to Allar thanks to new offensive assistant Trace McSorley<\/a>, a former Penn State quarterback who was on staff for his alma mater last year.<\/p>\n

\"Drew<\/p>\n

Oct 11, 2025; University Park, Pennsylvania, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) looks to throw a pass during the third quarter against the Northwestern Wildcats at Beaver Stadium. | Matthew O’Haren-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Cole Payton, North Dakota State<\/p>\n

Another one of the Football Championship Subdivision’s finest<\/a> last fall, Payton was as dangerous of a runner as he was a passer for North Dakota State.<\/p>\n

Leading FCS in yards per pass attempt (12.1), the 232-pound field general averaged 5.7 yards per carry and recorded 13 rushing touchdowns. The left-handed Payton lacks prototypical NFL arm strength, and he’ll likely need to become a better pocket passer to make an impact.<\/p>\n

Payton, however, has only helped himself since the season ended. He ran a 4.56-second 40 at the NFL Combine after earning National Team MVP honors for his work during Senior Bowl Week.<\/p>\n

\"Cole<\/p>\n

Jan 28, 2026; Mobile, AL, USA; National Team quarterback Cole Payton (9) of North Dakota State passes during National Senior Bowl practice at Hancock Whitney Stadium. | Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

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