News Summary
The Buffalo Bills drafted T.J. Sanders, a standout defensive tackle from the University of South Carolina, with the 41st overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This strategic move, made after a trade with the Chicago Bears, highlights the Bills’ commitment to strengthening their defensive lineup. Sanders, recognized for his impressive collegiate performance, was a first-team All-SEC performer and brings a strong athletic background to the NFL, aiming to make a significant impact on the field.
Buffalo – The Buffalo Bills have selected defensive tackle T.J. Sanders with the ninth pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, marking him as the 41st overall player chosen. This strategic move follows the team’s trade with the Chicago Bears, where they exchanged several draft selections to secure this coveted spot in the draft.
T.J. Sanders, hailing from Marion, South Carolina, stands at 6 feet 3 5/8 inches and weighs 305 pounds. Over his collegiate career at the University of South Carolina, Sanders demonstrated impressive skills on the field, appearing in 39 games with 16 career starts. He amassed a total of 109 tackles, including 17.5 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks.
In the 2024 season, Sanders played all 13 games, earning nine starts and establishing himself as a key player on defense. His performance garnered him recognition as a first-team All-SEC performer and a third-team All-American. Additionally, he was awarded the SEC’s Interior Defender of the Year, underlining his impact in the conference. Sanders finished his final college season fifth on his team in total tackles, leading defensive linemen with 50 tackles, 7.0 tackles for loss, and 4.0 sacks. His ability to disrupt opponents was further illustrated by six quarterback hurries and one pass breakup during that season.
Adding to his credentials, Sanders graduated in December 2024 with a degree in criminology and criminal justice. His selection marks him as the second Gamecock taken in the 2025 NFL Draft after Nick Emmanwori was selected earlier in the second round by Seattle. Notably, Sanders becomes the first Gamecock to join the Buffalo Bills since Stephon Gilmore was drafted in 2012.
The Bills’ decision to trade up for the No. 41 pick was partly influenced by the number of defensive tackles chosen in the first round of the draft. This urgency prompted the franchise to secure Sanders, who is projected to be a three-down player capable of stopping the run and generating pressure on the quarterback. The team’s general manager views Sanders primarily as a 3-technique defensive tackle, although he has the versatility to line up over the center when necessary.
Draft analysts have provided mixed grades for Sanders’ selection, with assessments ranging from C+ to A. They recognize his disruptive potential on the defensive line, while also highlighting concerns regarding his run-stopping abilities. In prior seasons, Sanders registered 4.5 sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss in 2023, followed by 4.0 sacks and 7.0 tackles for loss in 2024.
Before Venturing into football, Sanders had an athletic background in basketball during high school before transitioning to football, ultimately leading to his current career in the NFL. The Buffalo Bills are looking to fortify their defensive line with Sanders joining established players such as Ed Oliver.
This selection indicates the Buffalo Bills’ commitment to strengthening their defense, aiming to enhance their competitive edge in the upcoming NFL season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
South Carolina Football Sets Record at NFL Scouting Combine
Additional Resources
- Pro Football Talk
- Buffalo Bills Official Video
- Democrat & Chronicle
- Wikipedia: T.J. Sanders
- Google Search: T.J. Sanders
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