Bills news: What the Bills are getting with rookie edge rusher T.J. Parker

TL;DR

Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker was drafted by the Buffalo Bills with the 35th overall pick after a strong performance at the Senior Bowl, despite a dip in his college stats. The Bills believe Parker's potential and skills will make a significant impact on their defense.

Key points

T.J. Parker was drafted by the Buffalo Bills with the 35th overall pick.
He had a standout 2024 season at Clemson with 11 sacks.
Parker's performance declined in his final season, leading to a drop in draft stock.
The Bills were convinced by Parker's Senior Bowl performance.
Parker is expected to make an immediate impact on the Bills' defense.

Buffalo BillsClemson TigersSenior Bowl

CLEMSON, SC - AUGUST 30: T.J. Parker #3 of the Clemson Tigers rushes on defense while being blocked by Weston Davis #75 of the LSU Tigers during a college football game on August 30, 2025 at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images Clemson edge rusher T.J. Parker was projected as a first-round pick in the NFL Draft following a 2024 season that saw him dominate in the ACC, amassing 11 sacks with 19.5 tackles for a loss and six forced fumbles. Then, last year, Parker’s productivity dropped off, and he managed only five sacks with 9.5 tackles for a loss, and his stock took a bit of a hit. While many pundits viewed Parker as still being a first-round talent, he fell out of the first round and was available when Brandon Beane and the Buffalo Bills were on the clock with the 35th overall selection, and Beane made Parker his pick. Today’s edition of Buffalo Rumblinks leads off by analyzing what kind of edge rusher the Bills landed in Parker, and why Beane and Buffalo weren’t scared off by Parker’s decreased production during his final season at Clemson.

Q&A

What were T.J. Parker's college statistics at Clemson?

In his standout 2024 season, T.J. Parker recorded 11 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and six forced fumbles, but his performance declined in his final season with only five sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss.

Why did the Buffalo Bills draft T.J. Parker despite his decreased production?

The Bills were impressed by Parker's performance at the Senior Bowl, where he showcased his pass-rushing abilities and was considered one of the top players on the field.

What position does T.J. Parker play for the Buffalo Bills?

T.J. Parker plays as an edge rusher, a critical position for the Bills' defensive strategy.

How did T.J. Parker's Senior Bowl performance influence his draft stock?

His strong showing at the Senior Bowl helped to reaffirm the Bills' belief in his talent, despite a less impressive final season at Clemson.