I think this thread reinforces the fact that Brandon pushed hard for a shot at a Franchise QB in his last draft. Whaley bears much responsibility because he was heavily involved in that draft - reaching for EJ in the first. Russ also has to take some responsibility as I'm sure he was excited about selling tickets with a new QB on the roster. All in all, the move demonstrates the fallout from reaching for 2nd round talent in the 1st. It ties your hands for several drafts. IF the Bills had grabbed EJ in the 2nd, I doubt anyone would ring their hands about the failed attempt. First rounds are just too valuable.
On the other hand, spending multiple 2nd and 3rd day picks on QB does not hurt you as much. If you swing and miss on a 3rd rounder, he can still stick around as a cheap backup for a few years. You also don't mind grabbing another guy in the next draft because less value has been written off. You don't have ownership, fans, and front office doubling down on a faulty faith in a broken prospect (see EJ among a litany of other 1st round busts).