The Buffalo Bills face the New England Patriots on Sunday, but uncertainty surrounds who will be available to defend against former Buffalo receivers Stefon Diggs and Mack Hollins, now catching passes from rookie quarterback Drake Maye.
On Thursday’s injury report, two players were listed as did not practice, while five others were limited. Six of the eight players on the list are defensive contributors.
There is some positive news—defensive tackle Ed Oliver and linebacker Matt Milano are working their way back from injuries. Oliver returned to practice for the first time since mid-Week 2, while Milano has been sidelined since Week 3. Both are vital pieces for a defense that struggled last week against the Saints, particularly with tackling and containing quarterback Spencer Rattler.
The situation becomes more concerning if Milano isn’t ready. Linebacker Dorian Williams has now missed two straight practices with a knee injury. If unavailable, the Bills will likely elevate a linebacker from the practice squad. Rookie Keonta Jenkins has already been called up twice this season, so fellow rookie Jimmy Ciarlo may get his first NFL game-day opportunity.
Rookie cornerback Dorian Strong was a new addition to the report with a neck injury. He has split playing time with Tre’Davious White and recorded nine tackles through four games. Since Strong practiced Wednesday but not Thursday, it’s likely this injury occurred during practice. The Bills may need to call up veteran Dane Jackson or rely on Brandon Codrington, though Codrington’s role has mostly been on special teams.
Another new concern is rookie defensive tackle T.J. Sanders, who has been filling in for Oliver. Sanders, limited with a knee injury, practiced fully on Wednesday but couldn’t finish Thursday’s session. With the Bills relying heavily on defensive line rotation, even minor setbacks are impactful.
Looking ahead, Friday’s practice will provide clearer answers. Strong seems unlikely to play, Williams appears doubtful, while Oliver and Milano may be questionable.
The offensive side isn’t in the clear either. Right tackle Spencer Brown, who has been limited with an ankle issue, is expected to play. However, rookie tight end Jackson Hawes is also nursing an ankle injury. If he can’t go, Buffalo may rely more on fullback Reggie Gilliam, extra offensive linemen like Alec Anderson, or consider elevating rookie tight end Keleki Latu.
To complicate matters further, defensive tackle Jordan Phillips missed his second straight practice. He helped fill in for Oliver last week and recorded two tackles, but his availability remains uncertain. Depending on his status, the Bills may need to adjust their roster before Sunday’s kickoff.
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