Buffalo Bills outside linebacker TJ Parker spoke about his excitement and readiness to begin his professional football career in Buffalo, according to an April 25 statement. Parker, who was drafted in the second round as the 35th overall pick, arrived at One Bills Drive for the first time on Saturday morning.
Parker said the transition from Clemson University to the Buffalo Bills marks a significant change in his life. “I still kind of feel like I’m dreaming. I have to get pinched a little bit,” Parker said. “Seriously, it’s been great, these past couple hours, just knowing that I’m a Buffalo Bill for life now.”
During his visit to the team’s facility—his first day ever in New York—Parker noted similarities between Clemson’s culture and what he perceives with the Bills organization. “I’m coming from an organization in Clemson, where everything was about family, about people. I’m just so glad that Bills Mafia is the same way,” he said.
Known for his physical style of play at 6’4″ and 263 pounds, Parker described how he plans to contribute on defense: “I’m running out there and hitting somebody,” he said. “Look, since I was four years old, I told my mom I want to hit somebody… I’ve always been physical, always been violent … I’m going to fly around, run to the ball, and we’re going to hit people.” During three seasons at Clemson, Parker recorded 21.5 sacks—including a career-high of 11 sacks in 2024—and played in 39 consecutive games.
Parker credited Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney with preparing him for this next step: “Coach Swinney… He always shared his insight about the process and how it would go… He’s really helped me change my life.” Swinney also praised Parker’s work ethic: “This is a kid that works all the time… He loves to study the game.”
Looking forward to learning from veteran teammates such as Bradley Chubb and Greg Rousseau—as well as playing alongside quarterback Josh Allen—Parker expressed enthusiasm for contributing immediately: “I’m going to work hard and give it all I got… Just really (try) to get under their wing and just learn quickly so I can help this team.” As he settles into Buffalo’s culture both on and off the field, Parker added: “You guys are winners… That’s what I’ve been around my entire football career, and just to be a part of that now, it’s amazing.”
