Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that linebacker Dorian Williams and rookie cornerback Dorian Strong will miss Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots. McDermott made the announcement before Friday’s practice, calling it a setback for a defense that had shown improvement in recent weeks.
Williams, a 2023 third-round pick from Tulane, has been a key player in Buffalo’s defense, recording 18 tackles and a pass deflection this season. He’s sidelined with a knee injury but won’t be placed on injured reserve. Strong, a sixth-round rookie from Virginia Tech, has a neck injury. Though originally not expected to contribute heavily this season, injuries at cornerback pushed him into a starting role earlier in the year.
McDermott also provided updates on other players. Defensive tackle T.J. Sanders did not practice and is listed as questionable due to a knee issue. Right tackle Spencer Brown (calf), linebacker Matt Milano (pectoral), and defensive tackle Ed Oliver (ankle) were limited in practice and are questionable for Sunday. Tight end Jackson Hawes (ankle) was a full participant and is expected to play.
Despite numerous injuries, the Bills enter Week 5 ranked ninth in total defense. They currently lead the AFC East with a two-game cushion over the Patriots, while the Dolphins and Jets trail further behind. A win this weekend would extend Buffalo’s dominance in the division and move them closer to a sixth consecutive AFC East title.
Under McDermott and quarterback Josh Allen, the Bills have reversed the old AFC East dynamic once ruled by Bill Belichick’s Patriots and Tom Brady. With another victory on Sunday, Buffalo can further cement its control over the division early in the season.
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