The Buffalo Bills continue to face challenges keeping star linebacker Matt Milano healthy. When available, Milano is a proven All-Pro performer, but frequent injuries have made his reliability a concern for head coach Sean McDermott and defensive coordinator Bobby Babich.
During Buffalo’s 23–20 loss to the New England Patriots on Sunday night, Milano re-aggravated a pectoral injury and is now considered “week-to-week.” McDermott ruled out placing him on injured reserve, signaling optimism that he could return soon. Still, the Bills must again rely on their depth, with Dorian Williams nursing a knee issue and veteran Shaq Thompson stepping up early in the season.
Milano’s injury history has become a troubling pattern. Since suffering a leg injury in Week 5 of 2023, he has played in only 10 of the team’s last 39 games. His brief 2024 campaign was also derailed by a torn biceps tendon in training camp. Even when healthy this season, he has completed only one full game, leaving the Bills uncertain about his long-term availability.
While Milano’s absence highlights depth issues at linebacker, the Bills are also dealing with problems on offense. The team’s “everyone eats” approach to the wide receiver group works best when the run game is effective. But with James Cook contained by New England’s defense, Buffalo’s receivers once again struggled to create separation downfield. This lack of spacing has raised concerns about the passing attack’s consistency and the early struggles of free-agent addition Josh Palmer.
Beyond the injury and receiver woes, McDermott and offensive coordinator Joe Brady reportedly differ in their assessment of the offense’s recent performance. Meanwhile, the team is preparing for Monday night’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, where they’ll debut their throwback “Standing Buffalo” uniforms. Fans also await updates on Buffalo’s new Highmark Stadium construction, where field installation has begun.
Despite the setbacks, the Bills remain focused on rebounding from their first loss of the season and regaining momentum heading into Week 6.
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