Player Profile:
• Name: T.J. Sanders
• Position: Defensive Lineman
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 290 lbs
• Hometown: Marion, South Carolina
• College: University of South Carolina
Collegiate Career:
Sanders has been a pivotal force on the Gamecocks’ defensive front over the past four seasons. His collegiate career statistics include 109 total tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 9.5 sacks. In the 2024 season, he achieved career highs with 50 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, and four sacks, underscoring his development and consistency as a defensive lineman.
Strengths:
• Explosiveness: Sanders exhibits a solid get-off and acceleration from the line of scrimmage, enabling him to penetrate offensive lines effectively.
• Point of Attack: He demonstrates violence and strength when engaging blockers, often controlling the line of scrimmage.
• Hand Technique: Sanders utilizes effective hand-swipe and rip moves as a pass-rusher, complemented by a developing bull rush.
• Versatility: His experience across multiple defensive line positions, from 4i-technique to nose tackle, showcases his adaptability to various defensive schemes.
Areas for Improvement:
• Pad Level: Maintaining consistent pad level is crucial, as higher pads can diminish leverage against blockers.
• Lateral Agility: Enhancing lateral movement skills will improve his effectiveness against zone-blocking schemes and outside runs.
• Endurance: Improving conditioning will help sustain high-level performance throughout entire games.
NFL Draft Projection:
Sanders is projected as a versatile defensive lineman capable of contributing in both 3-4 and 4-3 defensive schemes. His combination of size, strength, and technique positions him as a potential first-round selection with the upside to develop into a starting role at the professional level.
TJ Sanders’ decision to enter the 2025 NFL Draft marks the culmination of a notable collegiate career at South Carolina. His physical attributes and on-field production have garnered attention from NFL scouts, and with continued development, he has the potential to make a significant impact at the next level.