The Buffalo Bills are facing mounting challenges as they prepare for their crucial matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday. The team’s defense, already hindered by injuries, has added nickel cornerback Taron Johnson to its injury report, making him questionable for the game. Johnson was limited in Friday’s practice due to a groin injury, further complicating the team’s defensive strategy. In the event Johnson is unable to play, veteran Cam Lewis is expected to step in as the primary backup nickel.
The Bills are already dealing with significant absences, including both starting defensive tackles. Ed Oliver is out indefinitely with a left biceps injury, and DaQuan Jones will miss his third consecutive game due to a left calf injury. This puts extra pressure on the remaining defensive players as they look to contain Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes.
Buffalo’s linebacker corps also felt the impact of injuries, as Shaq Thompson has been ruled out of this week’s game with a hamstring issue that has lingered since training camp. However, in a silver lining for the team, starters Terrel Bernard and Matt Milano practiced fully throughout the week and have no injury designations heading into the game. Additionally, kicker Matt Prater is set to play after dealing with a right calf injury earlier in the week.
Another significant injury note is the status of starting safety Taylor Rapp, who has been placed on injured reserve after undergoing surgery on his knee. Although coach Sean McDermott did not definitively say Rapp will miss the rest of the season, he acknowledged that it is likely the case. Veteran Jordan Poyer filled in for Rapp last week, with rookie Jordan Hancock taking some snaps on third downs.
As the Bills prepare for this important game, their resilience will be tested, and they will rely heavily on their remaining key players to step up in critical moments. Despite the setbacks, the team’s depth and determination will be essential as they aim to secure a vital victory against the Chiefs.