The Buffalo Bills have a knack for finding hidden gems in the later rounds of the NFL Draft. In 2025, that tradition continues with their selection of Dorian Strong, a talented cornerback from Virginia Tech. As Buffalo continues to build a playoff-caliber roster, Strong's arrival is fueling optimism in Bills Mafia and drawing attention from draft analysts across the league.

Dorian Strong's Journey from Virginia Tech to the NFL

Dorian Strong spent five impressive seasons at Virginia Tech, where he established himself as a consistent and physical defensive back. Over his college career, Strong recorded 112 total tackles, seven interceptions, and 35 passes defended. In his senior year, he started all 12 games, racking up a career-high 32 tackles, six pass breakups, and two interceptions.

Strong is praised for his instincts, physicality, and ability to play both man and zone coverage. NFL analyst Lance Zierlein describes him as a "long, instinctive cornerback who can be a disruptive press corner or scan the field for ball production in zone" (source). His field awareness and anticipation allow him to make plays that disrupt opposing offenses.

Fit and Expectations with the Buffalo Bills

Selected with the 177th overall pick in the sixth round, Dorian Strong enters a Bills defense that values versatility and football IQ. Head coach Sean McDermott’s scheme often relies on zone coverage, where Strong’s pattern recognition and tackling ability should translate seamlessly.

As highlighted in Buffalo Rumblings' draft analysis, Strong's style of play fits the prototype of a modern defensive back. He is expected to compete for snaps both at outside corner and potentially as a nickel defender. His physical approach makes him a candidate to defend big receivers or shift into run support when needed.

Scouting Takeaways: Strengths and Opportunities

Strong’s NFL projection centers on his blend of physical coverage and football savvy. According to draft coverage from the official Buffalo Bills draft tracker, evaluators note his ability to get physical with receivers early in routes, forcing quarterbacks to think twice about targeting his side of the field. He's especially effective in zone coverage, reading quarterback eyes and reacting quickly to break up passes.

However, scouts also note that Strong has room to develop when it comes to matching route breaks and flipping his hips against deep speed threats. With the Bills’ coaching staff’s track record for developing defensive backs, there is confidence that these areas can improve as Strong transitions to the professional level.

What Dorian Strong Brings to Buffalo

Dorian Strong brings toughness, intelligence, and competitiveness to a secondary looking to reload after a challenging 2024 campaign. He offers immediate depth, special teams upside, and long-term starting potential. With his proven production at Virginia Tech and a strong fit in Buffalo's defensive system, Strong could be one of the draft's overlooked additions who makes a difference on Sundays.

Looking Ahead: Strong's NFL Future

The journey from late-round pick to NFL standout is never easy. Yet, with his drive and skill set, Dorian Strong stands out as a prospect to watch throughout training camp and the regular season. If he capitalizes on his opportunities and continues to develop, Bills fans could see Strong playing meaningful snaps sooner rather than later.

Stay tuned for further updates on Dorian Strong and the Bills' 2025 rookie class as they prepare for the upcoming season.