On August 31, 2025, the Buffalo Bills received crushing news that second-year defensive tackle DeWayne Carter will miss the entire 2025 NFL season due to a torn Achilles, as reported by FOX Sports insider Jordan Schultz. The injury, which occurred during Wednesday’s practice on August 27, was later confirmed by ESPN’s Alaina Getzenberg. Carter himself addressed the setback on X, stating, “This is all a part of my testimony. I will be back. John 13:7,” reflecting his resilience in the face of adversity.
A Promising Career Derailed
Carter, a 2024 third-round pick from Duke, was poised for a significant role in Buffalo’s defensive line rotation this season. His college career at Duke was marked by multiple All-ACC honors, showcasing his ability to disrupt plays with sacks, tackles for loss, forced fumbles, pass breakups, and even a fumble return touchdown. As a rookie, Carter appeared in 11 games, starting three, and recorded five tackles for loss, three quarterback hits, and one pass defensed. His versatility and production made him a key piece behind starters Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones, with an expanded rotational role anticipated for 2025.
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The injury is a significant setback for both Carter and the Bills, as the young defensive tackle was expected to contribute heavily to a defensive front known for its depth and rotational strategy. With Carter now headed to injured reserve, the team must adjust its plans as they prepare for their Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens.
Adjusting the Defensive Line
The Bills’ defensive tackle group initially included Carter alongside veterans Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones, as well as rookies Deone Walker and TJ Sanders. With Carter sidelined, the team will rely on Oliver and Jones as the primary starters, with Sanders and Walker stepping into reserve roles. Buffalo’s defensive line has historically thrived on heavy rotation, a strategy that can continue if Sanders and Walker prove capable of handling early-down work and situational snaps.
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The Bills also have a veteran option in Jordan Phillips, currently on the practice squad in his third stint with the organization. Phillips, with 129 career games, 62 starts, and 24.0 sacks, offers a plug-and-play solution to bolster the interior line. His experience makes him a logical candidate for elevation to the active roster, especially as the team navigates the absence of free agent addition Larry Ogunjobi, who is serving a six-game suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substances policy.
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Syracuse.com’s Ryan Talbot noted that Buffalo recently added two defensive tackles to the practice squad, including Phillips, providing further depth. Lance Lysowski of the Buffalo News previously highlighted Phillips as an insurance policy while Carter competed for snaps, a role that now becomes critical.
Looking Ahead: Short-Term Solutions and Long-Term Recovery
While Carter’s injury is a blow, Buffalo’s defensive line remains formidable with Oliver and Jones anchoring the unit. The team’s investment in Sanders, selected 41st overall in the 2025 draft, and the promising preseason performances from Walker suggest the rookies can step up. However, their inexperience may prompt the Bills to lean on Phillips for stability in the early weeks.
For Carter, the focus shifts to rehabilitation and a potential return in 2026. A torn Achilles is a significant injury, but with a full recovery, Carter’s trajectory as a disruptive force on the defensive line remains promising. His college production and rookie contributions indicate a bright future if he can return to form.
A Resilient Response
Carter’s message on X reflects a mindset of perseverance, drawing on his faith to navigate this career setback. The Bills, too, must channel resilience as they adapt to his absence. With a talented core and strategic roster moves, Buffalo is well-positioned to weather this storm in the short term. The elevation of Phillips and the development of Sanders and Walker will be key as the Bills aim to maintain their defensive prowess in 2025.
As the team prepares to face the Ravens in Week 1, the loss of Carter stings, but Buffalo’s depth and rotational philosophy provide a path forward. Fans will await updates on Carter’s recovery, hoping to see the talented young defender back on the field in 2026, stronger than ever.