Buffalo Bills Get Major Defensive Boost as Matt Milano Returns from IR
BUFFALO, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills are about to get a significant upgrade on defense, and it couldn’t come at a better time. Linebacker Matt Milano has officially been activated off injured reserve, setting him up to potentially play in Sunday night’s highly anticipated matchup against the San Francisco 49ers (8:20 ET). This is huge news for a Bills team that’s already sitting pretty with a 9-2 record and looking to clinch the AFC East.
Milano, 30, hasn’t seen game action since October 8, 2023, when he suffered a devastating leg injury during the Bills’ game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Initially, the injury was thought to be season-ending, and Milano was expected to return in 2024. However, his road to recovery hit another snag in August when he tore his biceps during a training camp drill with a tackling dummy. Despite these setbacks, Milano has defied the odds to make his way back to the field.
Head coach Sean McDermott is cautiously optimistic about Milano’s availability for Sunday night. “Really just the next step, right, so, he hasn’t been through a Friday practice really to this extent,” McDermott said on Friday. “So, we’ll see how he handles today and then go from there.”
Milano’s Impact on the Bills’ Defense
Milano’s return is a game-changer for the Bills. The 2022 first-team All-Pro linebacker has been a cornerstone of Buffalo’s defense, and his presence on the field is expected to elevate the unit to another level. Nickel corner Taron Johnson couldn’t hide his excitement about Milano’s return. “Huge,” Johnson said. “The way Matt plays the game, the way he has played the game, is special. So having a guy like that on the field is going to make our defense tremendously better. So, whether he’s here this week or whenever that time comes, just excited to have him back.”
Milano has only played in five games alongside the team’s starting middle linebacker, Terrel Bernard, this season. Bernard has been a steady presence in the middle, and the chemistry between the two linebackers will be something to watch as Milano gets back into game shape. The Bills didn’t need to make a corresponding roster move to activate Milano, as there was already an open spot on the 53-man roster.
Stepping Up in Milano’s Absence
While Milano has been sidelined, rookie linebacker Dorian Williams has stepped up in a big way. The 2023 third-round pick has been a revelation for the Bills, leading the team in tackles (97) and ranking second in tackles for loss (five). His strong play has been a key factor in Buffalo’s impressive start to the season, but there’s no doubt that Milano’s return will add another layer of dominance to the defense.
Milano’s Road to Recovery
Milano’s journey back to the field has been anything but easy. After undergoing surgery for his leg injury, he was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return. His 21-day practice window was opened on November 11, and he’s been a full participant in practice all week. “It feels good just to be out there with the guys, man,” Milano said on Wednesday. “Be competing again and playing ball.”
With Milano back in the fold, the Bills are in prime position to make a deep playoff run. A win over the 49ers on Sunday night would clinch the AFC East for Buffalo, further solidifying their status as one of the league’s top teams.
Other Roster Updates
While Milano’s return is the headline, the Bills have made a few other roster moves ahead of Sunday’s game. Rookie defensive tackle DeWayne Carter (wrist) has been downgraded to out for the game, though his 21-day practice window remains open. Additionally, the team has elevated quarterback Mike White and tight end Zach Davidson from the practice squad. Tight end Dalton Kincaid (wrist) has already been ruled out, while wide receiver Keon Coleman (wrist) is listed as questionable.
What’s Next?
All eyes will be on Sunday night’s game as the Bills take on the 49ers in what promises to be a thrilling matchup. With Milano back in action, Buffalo’s defense could be the X-factor that tips the scales in their favor. Can the Bills clinch the AFC East and continue their march toward a potential No. 1 seed? Stay tuned, because this season is just heating up.
Originally Written by: Alaina Getzenberg
