Over three college seasons with Clemson, Parker compiled 126 tackles, 41.5 tackles for loss, 21.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, and six pass deflections in 39 games. His most productive year came in 2024, when he posted 57 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 11 sacks, and a school-record six forced fumbles, earning second-team All-ACC honors. His final college season showed a dip in numbers, though evaluators attributed that to scheme and matchup factors rather than a drop in ability.
Scouting notes highlighted Parker’s length and hand technique. He is praised for setting firm edges and finishing tackles, with NFL projections often describing him as a reliable second-round contributor with upside. Analysts noted a need for more burst off the edge and continued development of counter moves to maximize his pass-rush ceiling.
The Bills entered the draft with Joey Bosa’s departure leaving a gap at edge rusher. Bosa’s one-year tenure and late-season fade underscored the team’s need for younger, versatile options to complement Rousseau. Parker is expected to help stabilize the edge rotation while the Bills continue to build on their young defensive front.
Parker’s college trajectory includes a standout freshman season and a four-star recruit pedigree, positioning him as a potentially immediate contributor and future starter. Buffalo’s investment signals a plan to develop a more dynamic edge group that can adapt to multiple defensive fronts, with Parker slated to compete for significant snaps as part of the Bills’ rotation.
