The Bills have reset their defensive line this offseason — and rookie T.J. Sanders figures to be a major part of the changes.

The first look at the defensive tackle on the field came at rookie minicamp, where the second-round pick from South Carolina took a moment to think about what it means to reach the NFL. 

“We had a little thing where we had to put the jerseys on and when I put that on, it was kind of like, ‘Yeah, I’m here now,’” he said.

Sanders is 6’4” and weighs 297 pounds, with an explosive and violent game that allowed him to be a pass-rushing force in college. His profile could let Bills coaches deploy him in a variety of situations.

While the physical work is important, this time of year is critical for newcomers to prepare mentally for the professional game and soak in all the information the coaches throw at them. 

“You know it’s a good bit,” Sanders said. “It’s something that we’ve got to pick up, learn. If we want to be ready, wanting to play the playbook is the No. 1 thing we’ve got to learn. Just taking that, same thing, one day at a time and making sure we’re studying the right amount of time outside the building and make sure we’re sharp.”

This year’s draft class features three defensive lineman, all from the SEC. It's a trio that could anchor the Bills for years to come. 

“Being with guys like Deone [Walker], Landon [Jackson], the other guy that are in with us, just knowing that nobody’s alone. It’s guy beside you, brothers, that’s dealing with the same problems that you’re possibly going through. Just talk. We’re all trying to build a relationship right now, get closer, because we know it’s going to take all of us."

Sanders and the rest of the Bills rookies will join the veterans on the field for voluntary OTAs next week.