Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott delivered a series of important updates as the team returned from its bye week, shedding light on both the injury situation and the adjustments being made ahead of their next matchup. After a physically demanding start to the season, the bye provided a crucial opportunity for recovery and self-assessment. McDermott revealed that defensive tackle DaQuan Jones (calf) and wide receiver Joshua Palmer (ankle) are both listed as week-to-week, while linebacker Terrel Bernard, cornerback Christian Benford, tight end Dalton Kincaid, and wide receiver Curtis Samuel are considered day-to-day. Each player’s progress will be closely monitored throughout the week as the Bills prepare for a key post-bye stretch.
One of the more positive updates involved rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston, who has been sidelined since training camp due to a knee injury. McDermott confirmed that Hairston’s rehabilitation is going well and that the team is evaluating when to open his practice window, signaling that his return could be near. “We’re encouraged by where he’s at,” McDermott said. “But we’re going to stay patient and take it one day at a time.” His return could offer a much-needed boost to a secondary that has battled inconsistency and injuries over the first half of the season.
Beyond injuries, McDermott and his staff spent the bye week conducting a comprehensive review of the team’s performance. The head coach described the process as “looking under the hood,” focusing on fundamentals, preparation, and execution rather than sweeping changes. “It’s about finding those little cracks before they become bigger issues,” McDermott noted. The Bills’ defensive staff, in particular, focused on improving early-game consistency after a series of sluggish first halves. McDermott emphasized the importance of setting the tone early and maintaining intensity from start to finish.
Offensively, the Bills are emphasizing precision and rhythm over overhaul. McDermott voiced continued confidence in offensive coordinator Joe Brady, saying the team doesn’t need a new system — it needs sharper execution. The focus during the break has been on cleaning up penalties, timing issues, and red-zone efficiency. “It’s not about reinventing the wheel,” McDermott said. “It’s about getting back to who we are and executing at a higher level.” The potential return of playmakers like Kincaid and Samuel could help restore balance and explosiveness to the offense.
The Bills are also welcoming back key defensive pieces, as Michael Hoecht and Larry Ogunjobi have been reinstated to the active roster following their suspensions. Their return bolsters Buffalo’s defensive front, adding size and experience ahead of a critical midseason stretch. As the team prepares for its next opponent, McDermott is stressing discipline, detail, and a renewed sense of urgency. “The bye week was about reflection and recalibration,” he said. “Now it’s time to take what we’ve learned and apply it.” With several key players trending toward recovery and renewed energy in the locker room, the Bills are aiming to come out of the bye stronger, sharper, and ready to make a statement in the weeks ahead.
About the Author
