The Buffalo Bills’ defense may take another hit as rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock is in danger of missing the team’s final preseason game. Hancock injured his shoulder during Sunday’s 38-0 loss to the Chicago Bears, leaving in visible pain after making his eighth tackle. Although he later downplayed the injury and walked off under his own power, head coach Sean McDermott admitted Tuesday that Hancock will likely be sidelined for the preseason finale in Tampa Bay.
Hancock’s setback adds to a growing list of concerns in Buffalo’s secondary. Rookie first-round pick Maxwell Hairston remains weeks away from returning despite shedding his crutches, and safety Cam Lewis is working back from a calf issue. The team has leaned heavily on young defensive backs during the preseason, but injuries have prevented the group from gaining continuity.
The offense has not been spared either. Wide receiver Khalil Shakir is sidelined with a high ankle sprain, though the team expects him to be ready for Week 1 against the Ravens. Veteran Curtis Samuel returned to full team drills for the first time in weeks, providing some hope for added depth at receiver. On the offensive line, Connor McGovern and Kendrick Green are both nursing injuries, forcing Alec Anderson into first-team reps despite recently undergoing a knee procedure.
Special teams may soon get a boost as kicker Tyler Bass, who has missed most of training camp with a pelvic injury, inches closer to a return. McDermott expressed optimism that Bass could be ready to kick in Saturday’s game. Meanwhile, offensive tackle Tylan Grable remains in concussion protocol, and linebacker Shaq Thompson returned from a hamstring injury, improving his chances of sticking on the roster.
Overall, the Bills are managing a long list of injuries just weeks before the regular season. With key players on both sides of the ball limited, Buffalo will be hoping for progress in the final preseason game — and for healthier news heading into their opener against Baltimore.
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