Buffalo Bills' Late-Round Gamble: Grading the Selection of P Tommy Doman

Buffalo Bills Strengthen Their Special Teams

The Buffalo Bills made a notable addition to their special teams by choosing punter Tommy Doman Jr. in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft. With this pick, the Bills are not only preparing for the future but also sparking competition within their punting unit.

Doman has an intriguing background, having played two seasons at Michigan followed by a season at Florida. His collegiate career has shown him to be consistently accurate with commendable hang time on his kicks, although he's yet to display elite leg strength, which raises questions about his ability to perform at the NFL level.

A Closer Look at Tommy Doman

At 239th overall, the Bills might have found a diamond in the rough. Doman's performance at the college level was marked by reliability, an essential trait for punters in an ever-evolving NFL landscape. His ability to maintain composure under pressure could be a defining factor in his pursuit of a spot on the 53-man roster.

“Doman Jr. has the potential to blossom into a secure punting option, providing stability to the Bills' special teams.”

Competition Awaits

One of Doman's immediate challenges will be competing against veteran punter Mitch Wishnowsky, who had a middling performance last season. Wishnowsky's experience gives him an edge, but Doman's youthful energy and fresh techniques could prove pivotal. This competition adds an interesting dynamic to training camp, and we should keep an eye on how it develops.

The Bottom Line

The selection of Tommy Doman brings a mix of potential and uncertainty for the Buffalo Bills. It provides them with an opportunity to enhance their special teams — an often overlooked but critical aspect of football. With the right mentorship and preparation, Doman could find himself playing a significant role next season.

Grade: B-

In summary, this pick can be viewed as a solid investment by GM Brandon Beane. While the Bills will need to see consistent improvement from Doman, the seventh round is often a playground for hidden gems, and Doman may just be one of them. The upcoming preseason will be crucial for determining if he can truly make his mark in the NFL.