Bills selected Mississippi G Nick Broeker with the No. 230 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Broeker (6'4/305) was a 3-star recruit, and the 35th-ranked offensive tackle, from Springfield, Illinois in the 2019 recruiting class, according to 247 Sports. offensive tackles will often transition to guard in the NFL due to a lack of athleticism or missing physical traits. Broeker made this change in college. While this process has been clearly difficult, with the remnants of the outside skills remaining and becoming a weakness inside, Broeker’s strengths are also highlighted in close quarters. Though he may be liable for a few holding penalties at the next level, Broeker allowed no sacks in 2022. The tenacity to pursue a body leverage win is a trademark to his game. He quickly gets to the second level, as exemplified by his explosive 88th percentile 10-yard split, and will put Linebackers on skates to spring his Running Back. His offensive tackle skills mean that he is actually better at keeping his feet than one might expect from a career guard. This is also apparent when he begins a play uncovered as he will be patient and pick his spots when looking for work. Despite moving from a high-profile position to one that is slightly less-heralded, Broeker racked up many accolades including All-SEC and midseason All-American honors from multiple outlets. He has many positive traits that remind me a bit of former Western Kentucky Lineman Forrest Lamp.
