In a surprising twist to the ongoing quarterback saga between the Buffalo Bills and Kansas City Chiefs, both teams are reportedly vying for the services of undrafted free agent Paxton DeLaurent.
This development adds a new layer to the longstanding rivalry between the two AFC powerhouses, reminiscent of their pivotal roles in the 2017 NFL Draft.
The 2017 Draft: A turning point
The 2017 NFL Draft marked a significant moment for both franchises. The Chiefs traded up to the 10th overall pick to select Patrick Mahomes, who has since become a cornerstone of their success.
The Bills, benefiting from the trade, used a future first-round pick to select Josh Allen the following year, setting the stage for a new era in Buffalo. Both quarterbacks have since evolved into MVP-caliber players and fierce competitors, leading their teams to multiple playoff appearances and intensifying the rivalry between the two franchises.
Fast forward to 2025, and the Bills and Chiefs find themselves connected once again, this time over a potential quarterback prospect.
Paxton DeLaurent, a 6’5″, 229-pound quarterback from Southeast Missouri State, has reportedly received minicamp invitations from both teams. Despite not being among the top-ranked undrafted quarterbacks, DeLaurent’s physical attributes and playing style have caught the attention of both organizations.
During the 2024 season, DeLaurent threw for over 4,000 yards and 33 touchdowns, though he also recorded 15 interceptions and completed passes at a 59% rate. Notably, he demonstrated dual-threat capabilities, rushing for 457 yards and 10 touchdowns throughout his college career. This mobility could be particularly appealing to the Bills, who have seen success with a similar playing style in Josh Allen.
Beyond his on-field performance, DeLaurent has excelled academically. He boasts a 3.969 GPA and was named the Big South-OVC Scholar-Athlete of the Year. His leadership extends off the field, having served as a counselor at the Manning Passing Academy and a tutor at local elementary schools. Such attributes align with the values upheld by both the Bills and Chiefs organizations.
A strategic move or a competitive edge?
The simultaneous interest from both teams raises questions about the motivations behind their pursuit of DeLaurent. Is it a strategic move to develop a promising talent, or is it a calculated effort to prevent the rival from gaining an advantage?
Regardless of the underlying reasons, DeLaurent’s journey from an undrafted free agent to a potential NFL quarterback is a testament to his determination and skill.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on Paxton DeLaurent. His performance in the upcoming minicamps could determine his future in the league and potentially add another chapter to the evolving rivalry between the Bills and Chiefs. Whether he becomes a developmental prospect or a surprise roster addition, DeLaurent’s story is one to watch in the coming months.
Read the full article here
