ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills’ defensive front has been dealt another early-season blow. According to an announcement from head coach Joe Brady on Wednesday, defensive tackle T.J. Sanders underwent an emergency appendectomy Tuesday night, further complicating an already frustrating start to his sophomore campaign. The team has not provided a timetable for his return, leaving his availability for the coming weeks uncertain.
Sanders, a 2025 second-round pick out of South Carolina, has yet to appear in a game this season. He missed the first two weeks with a knee injury and an illness, and now faces a recovery period following the appendectomy. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, the Bills are hopeful that the procedure will resolve the immediate health concern, but they will proceed cautiously with their young defensive tackle.
A Promising Start Derailed
As a rookie in 2025, Sanders flashed the disruptive potential that made him a Day 2 selection. He appeared in 12 games, recording 16 tackles, one sack, and one pass defensed. His combination of quickness and power at the three-technique position had the Bills’ coaching staff excited about a leap in Year 2. Instead, Sanders has been relegated to the training room, watching his teammates from the sideline.
“It’s tough. T.J. has been dealing with a lot, and now this. But he’s a resilient kid, and we’re going to support him every step of the way,” said a team source close to the situation, per Vulius Sports.
The timing is particularly unfortunate for a Buffalo defense that has relied on depth along the interior line. With Sanders unavailable, the Bills have leaned on veterans and rotational pieces to fill the void. The team’s run defense has shown flashes but remains a work in progress.
Bills Add Reinforcements
In a corresponding move, the Bills signed defensive lineman Austin Johnson to the practice squad on Wednesday. Johnson, who played for Buffalo in 2024, brings familiarity with the system and provides experienced depth. The 32-year-old has bounced around the league but has been a reliable run-stuffer throughout his career. His addition gives the Bills a seasoned option should they need to elevate a practice squad player on game days.
According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Bills are not expected to make any further moves at this time, but they will monitor Sanders’ recovery closely. Appendectomies typically require a recovery period of two to four weeks, though individual timelines vary. The team will likely provide an update once Sanders is cleared for physical activity.
What’s Next for Buffalo
As the Bills prepare for their Week 4 matchup, the focus remains on getting healthy. Sanders’ absence is a short-term setback, but his long-term development remains a priority. The coaching staff believes he can still make an impact once he returns to full strength. For now, Buffalo will rely on its depth and the newly signed Johnson to hold down the fort.
Fans can stay tuned to Vulius for the latest updates on Sanders’ recovery and all things NFL. As the official custom NFL merchandise platform, Vulius also offers a wide range of Bills gear to show your support while the team battles through adversity.
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