TJ Sanders Scouting Report: Buffalo Bills Pick Versatile Defensive Lineman in 2025

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TJ Sanders Scouting Report: Buffalo Bills Pick Versatile Defensive Lineman in 2025
photo via @tj.sanders4 / Instagram

The TJ Sanders scouting report became a hot topic after the Buffalo Bills selected the South Carolina defensive lineman with the 41st pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Sanders stood out for his strength at the line of scrimmage and his flexibility to play multiple positions on the defensive front.

At 6-foot-4 and 297 pounds, Sanders brings size and length that help him control blockers and shed them quickly. He uses a mix of power and technique, especially when working inside against the run or rushing the passer. Though not a finished product, Sanders offers promising upside as a rotational lineman for Buffalo.

T.J. Sanders Scouting Report: Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Great burst off the snap and quick acceleration
  • Strong hands and upper body for shedding blocks
  • Long arms help him control engagements
  • Has experience at multiple alignments (4i, 3-tech, nose tackle)
  • Effective pass-rush tools, including rip and bull rush
  • Good at timing jumps to deflect passes

Weaknesses:

  • Pad level is inconsistent, especially against double teams
  • Needs to improve lateral agility for outside runs
  • Can get tired late in games or long drives
  • Tends to stop his feet on contact, limiting pass-rush power

Sanders played a key role for the South Carolina Gamecocks and earned Second-Team All-SEC honors in 2024. His stats and consistent presence on the field made him one of the top interior defenders in the class, despite concerns about conditioning and agility.

How T.J. Sanders Fits with the Bills

Buffalo’s defensive line depth has been a priority this offseason, and Sanders adds needed size and toughness. He projects best as a rotational 3-tech or 4i-tech who can step in on early downs and develop over time.

Bills defensive line coach Eric Washington said, “We love his motor and the way he plays with physicality. There’s a lot to work with, and we think he fits our room perfectly.”

With strong coaching and the right rotation, Sanders has the potential to grow into a starting-caliber player, especially if he sharpens his technique and maintains his conditioning through full games.

Measurements and Combine Results:

  • Height: 6’4″
  • Weight: 297 lbs
  • 40-Yard Dash: 4.99
  • Arm Length: 33⅛”
  • Vertical: 31.5”
  • Broad Jump: 9’4″
  • Second-Team All-SEC (2024)
  • Third-Team All-SEC (2023)
  • No major injuries
  • 3-star recruit (2021)

In all, T.J. Sanders gives the Bills a strong, versatile option with high potential who can step in early and develop with reps.

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