Former South Carolina defensive lineman T.J. Sanders has officially signed his rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills. The four-year deal is valued at $10.645 million, with $10.073 million guaranteed. That means roughly 95% of Sanders’ contract is guaranteed—an unusually high percentage for a second-round pick, placing him among the most well-compensated players in that draft range. Only his former South Carolina teammate, Nick Emmanwori, has secured a more lucrative deal under similar circumstances.
Sanders’ contract was confirmed by his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, as part of a wave of signings occurring just before training camps began. Many second-round picks had delayed signing their contracts earlier in the offseason while agents negotiated for larger guarantees. As the preseason approaches, NFL teams are locking in key players to avoid holdouts or distractions during camp. Sanders now enters his rookie year with both financial security and high expectations.
During his junior season at South Carolina, Sanders made a name for himself as one of the top interior defensive linemen in the SEC. His rare combination of size, athleticism, and relentless effort made him a consistent disruptor on the field. These attributes caught the attention of NFL scouts and played a major role in him becoming a top draft selection. His performance at the 2025 NFL Combine only reinforced his rising stock, setting the stage for his early success in the league.
The Bills view Sanders as a key addition to their defensive front, which has undergone several changes in the offseason. At 6-foot-5 and 290 pounds, he brings versatility and explosiveness to the line, making him a strong candidate for early playing time. Buffalo is expected to rely on him heavily as a rookie, and he could become a foundational piece of their defense moving forward. His ability to contribute in multiple roles adds significant value to the team’s defensive strategy.
With T.J. Sanders now in Buffalo and Nick Emmanwori in Seattle, South Carolina fans have plenty to cheer for at the professional level. Both players not only reached the NFL but also did so with record-setting rookie contracts. Their success reflects well on the Gamecocks football program, showcasing its ability to develop high-level talent. As the NFL season begins, all eyes will be on how Sanders transitions from college standout to NFL impact player.
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