2026 NFL Draft: All-access look at Buffalo Bills EDGE T.J. Parker

TL;DR

The Buffalo Bills selected EDGE T.J. Parker from Clemson with the 35th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Parker is expected to thrive in the Bills' new 3-4 defensive scheme under coordinator Jim Leonhard.

Key points

Buffalo Bills selected T.J. Parker with the 35th overall pick
Parker played college football at Clemson
He is expected to fit into the Bills' 3-4 defensive scheme
Parker has a strong college performance and Senior Bowl showing
He values discipline and has a supportive family background

Mentioned in this story

T.J. ParkerJim LeonhardDabo Swinney

Buffalo BillsClemson Tigers

CLEMSON, SOUTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 30: Defensive end T.J. Parker #3 of the Clemson Tigers yells in excitement before the game against the LSU Tigers at Memorial Stadium on August 30, 2025 in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Katie Januck/Getty Images) | Getty Images With their first pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills selected edge rusher T.J. Parker out of Clemson at pick 35 overall. Buffalo was confident they could land a player of Parker’s pedigree while moving back to stock up on draft capital that would better-afford them board flexibility throughout the weekend. In choosing Parker, the Bills land a near-prototypical edge defender with a plan to unleash him as a stand-up EDGE ‘backer in new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard’s 3-4 base system. Parker has the raw tools to build upon, while also showcasing elite production during the 2024 college season and also during the latest Senior Bowl week. Parker’s a focused and disciplined person, evidenced the fact that he finished his degree, graduating in three years — yet he’s still someone with plenty of room to grow. Take an inside look at Parker’s first moments as a Bill, where he met remotely with members of the media who cover the team. Parker is a motivated young player who fills a room with his enthusiasm, undoubtedly traits that One Bills Drive covet. So, too, as president of football operations/general manager Brandon Beane point out, is Parker’s background — which includes his father’s US Army Service. Check out all Parker had to say, including the motto his father taught him to live by: “Who are you when no one else is watching?” Plus, how his wife Azyah plays a pivotal role in his life, the defensive versatility he envisions providing the Bills, meeting with members of Buffalo at the Senior Bowl, an impromptu self-scouting report, and more. Take in the behind-the-scenes moment when T.J. Parker learned he was heading to play for the Bills’ defense. Check out what Clemson head football coach Dabo Swinney had to say about what the Buffalo Bills are getting in edge rusher T.J. Parker. The “One Bills Live” team provides early reactions and analysis on T.J. Parker, with plenty of game tape and stats to get you up to speed on Buffalo’s newest EDGE defender.

Q&A

What are the key attributes of T.J. Parker as an EDGE rusher?

T.J. Parker is described as a near-prototypical edge defender with elite production, raw tools, and versatility, making him a valuable addition to the Bills' defense.

How did T.J. Parker perform in college before the NFL Draft?

Parker showcased elite production during the 2024 college season and had a strong performance at the Senior Bowl, highlighting his readiness for the NFL.

What impact is T.J. Parker expected to have on the Buffalo Bills' defense?

Parker is anticipated to play a significant role as a stand-up EDGE linebacker in the Bills' 3-4 base system, contributing to the team's defensive versatility.