The Buffalo Bills could have some shifting around in their depth chart after the NFL draft, with a rookie edge rusher predicted to jump ahead of a veteran in the defensive line rotation.
The Bills underwent a transformation this offseason when they jettisoned head coach Sean McDermott and hired Jim Leonhard as defensive coordinator. That could mean some position changes for the team’s edge-rushing group, giving Parker a chance to earn a significant role in his rookie season.
T.J. Parker Could Get Play for the Bills
SI.com’s Ralph Ventre broke down the Bills rookies most likely to see significant playing time this season.
“Being the Bills’ first selection, Parker will naturally face expectations to contribute in Year 1,” Ventre wrote. “The good news for the rookie is that there’s a clear path to playing time behind starting edge rushers Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb.”
Ventre added that Parker could benefit from the injury to edge rusher Michael Hoecht, who appeared in just two games last season before going down. Parker could also surpass another veteran who might start ahead of him on the depth chart.
“Veteran chess piece Michael Hoecht is recovering from a torn Achilles, and it could take him awhile to round back into form,” Ventre wrote. “Javon Solomon, a 2024 fifth-round pick, appears to carry more value as the Bills switch to a 3-4 front, but he likely won’t stand in the way of Parker’s reps.”
The Bills have some room for Parker on the depth chart after allowing veterans Joey Bosa and A.J. Epenesa to hit free agency.
Bills Rookie Ready for the Challenge
Parker said he was excited to get started with the Bills, adding that he has a skill set that will help the team right away.
“Very physical player who loves using hands, doesn’t shy away from contact in the run or the pass game. Very powerful with my long arms and my speed, the power,” Parker said.
“[I’m] one guy who could change up and use a little speed, a guy who’s going to try to play with attitude, run to the ball, get there as fast as possible and put pain on somebody. [I’m] playing fast, physical football … and I’m trying to bring the nasty to the defense.”
Parker will move from defensive end to outside linebacker in Leonhard’s 3-4 scheme, but said he isn’t worried about the transition.
“I think it’s a great [thing],” Parker said of the chance to move to linebacker. “I’m very versatile. On my team, I can drop in coverage, I can rush the pass, or I can stop the run. So, that just makes me versatile all across the board and, for me, I think that’s very valuable.”
Parker added that he’s excited about the city of Buffalo and its fans.
“I know one thing; the fans [in Buffalo] love football. And that’s one thing I love,” Parker said. “I love a good organization with a great culture. [Bills Mafia is] going to show up for us through the ups and downs. So, I’m excited to get up there and meet everybody.”
Rookie Bills Edge Rusher Predicted to Steal Veteran’s Spot on Depth Chart