Could T.J. Sanders Bring Depth and Disruption to the Giants’ Defensive Line?
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the defensive interior class looks stacked, boasting depth and versatility to fit any scheme in the league. For a team like the New York Giants, this could be a pivotal opportunity to bolster their defensive line, especially with a need for depth behind Dexter Lawrence. One name to watch? T.J. Sanders, the disruptive defensive tackle from South Carolina.
While Sanders didn’t post gaudy stats this season, his knack for creating chaos in opponents’ backfields could make him an enticing prospect, particularly beyond the first round. Let’s dive into what makes Sanders a potential gem for the Giants.
T.J. Sanders at a Glance
- Height: 6’3 ¾”
- Weight: 284 lbs
- Arm Length: 33 ⅝”
- Hand Size: 10 ¼”
Strengths: Disruption Personified
Sanders is a versatile and athletic lineman who primarily played over the B-gap at South Carolina, but his skill set allows him to thrive in multiple alignments. At nearly 6’4” and 284 pounds, Sanders combines length, explosiveness, and agility with impressive play strength.
He times the snap exceptionally well, firing off low and hard to generate leverage against blockers. His active, heavy hands are a highlight, helping him control opponents in the run game or shed blocks to penetrate into the backfield. His pass-rushing arsenal includes arm-over and rip moves, complementing his bull rush and showcasing his ability to rush with a plan.
Sanders also excels in gap control during the run game, leveraging his hips effectively to shed blockers and disrupt plays. His competitive toughness and relentless motor make him a constant force, as he fights through blocks and chases plays to the whistle.
As one scout at the Shrine Bowl put it, “He got better as the year went on — a pivotal piece for their defense.”
Weaknesses: Size and Consistency
While Sanders’ athleticism stands out, his lack of mass compared to bigger defensive tackles can be a drawback. At around 290 pounds, he’s better suited as a gap penetrator than as a block-eater or double-team specialist. His effectiveness drops when tasked with holding up against powerful linemen or double teams in short-yardage situations.
Additionally, some may question why his disruption didn’t consistently translate to production. This could be attributed to the dominance of edge rusher Kyle Kennard, who stole the spotlight at South Carolina.
Projection: A Disruptive Starter or Key Rotational Piece
Sanders is best suited for teams that prioritize penetration and disruption over sheer block-eating. He projects as a starter or high-value rotational defensive tackle at the NFL level, particularly in schemes that allow him to attack individual gaps. While his size may limit his appeal in certain roles, his ability to disrupt plays behind the line makes him a valuable asset.
For the Giants, Sanders could fit seamlessly into a defensive line rotation, complementing Dexter Lawrence and adding explosiveness to their interior.
The Verdict: A Day 2 Steal for the Giants?
If the Giants decide to target depth for their defensive line, T.J. Sanders could be an ideal pick on Day 2. His combination of athleticism, motor, and disruptiveness would give the Giants a unique weapon in their defensive front.
In a draft class loaded with talent, Sanders may not be the flashiest name, but his potential to wreak havoc in the trenches could make him a steal for Big Blue.
