Buffalo Bills' general manager Brandon Beane made a strategic move during the 2025 NFL Draft, trading up to select T.J. Sanders, a defensive tackle from South Carolina, at the 41st pick. This decision was influenced by a run on defensive linemen in the first round, prompting the Bills to secure Sanders to enhance their interior rush. Beane noted that they had a high grade on Sanders and were concerned he would not make it to their original spot.

In the trade with the Chicago Bears, Buffalo exchanged their second-round picks (52 and 62) and a fourth-round pick (109) but managed to retain a third-round selection in the process. This maneuver reflects the Bills' confidence in Sanders' ability to complement Ed Oliver on passing downs, emphasizing the importance of bolstering their defensive line for the upcoming season.