It’s no secret that the Buffalo Bills’ defense has some major problems that they are trying to figure out how to overcome. Through four games, the Bills’ defense hasn’t looked the best in three of them which includes them giving up over 400 yards to Drake Maye and the New England Patriots.
The Bills' defense is allowing over 372 yards per game through four games, making them the 6th worst amongst the league. The only teams that are giving up more yards are the Broncos, Panthers, Cowboys, Colts, and Lions.
Buffalo's defense hasn't been what fans were hoping for under Jim Leonhard. We are starting to get away from the saying "it's still the beginning of the season". We are officially in October, and this unit has only been dominate in one game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Bills' defense has lots to improve, but one player has been slowly rising
Rookie outside linebacker TJ Parker has been slowly progressing as the season has gone on. He's up to 9 total tackles, he recorded his first half sack against the Patriots, which led to a forced fumble.
His teammate, Greg Rousseau, has been the best edge rusher for the Bills by a mile. However, we can't ignore Parker's production that is starting to come together, and is catching Jim Leonhard's attention.
TJ Parker could be involved more than he is with Bills' defense
Leonhard spoke with the media on Monday and he talked about how Parker is "ready to have a bigger role" per Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News.
Jim Leonhard on Bills rookie OLB T.J. Parker:
— Lance Lysowski (@LLysowski) October 5, 2026
"He's ready to have a bigger role."
Parker has just 60 snaps on defense, accounting for 21% of the snaps, per Pro Football Reference. He also has just one less snap on special teams. Obviously, Rousseau and Bradley Chubb are Buffalo's main OLBs to start, but with Leonhard saying this statement, it makes you wonder if they could there be different sets coming up front.
Heck, maybe we will see Parker lined up more in the trenches rather than just outside. We can't rule out anything until we see it. Either way, the rookie has impressed his defensive coordinator and fans should be excited to see this.
Buffalo's defense faces a tough task in Week 5 against the Los Angeles Rams. Parker could have plenty of opportunities to make an impact. LA's offense can be dangerous, so it will be important to apply pressure and not let the Rams' offense get into a rhythm.
Add us as a preferred source on Google