The Buffalo Bills are reeling from a significant setback as they prepare for their Thursday Night Football showdown against the Miami Dolphins. Head coach Sean McDermott delivered sobering news on Monday, revealing that star linebacker Matt Milano will miss practice due to a pectoral injury sustained during the team’s recent victory over the New York Jets. The injury, which occurred on one of the final plays of the first half, forced Milano to sit out the remainder of the game, and his status for Week 3 remains uncertain.
“We don’t know yet,” McDermott told reporters in Orchard Park when asked about the severity of Milano’s injury and a potential timeline for his return. “We’ll see.” The lack of clarity has raised concerns among Bills fans, especially given Milano’s history of extended absences due to injuries in recent seasons.
A Troubling Pattern for Milano
Milano, a former All-Pro linebacker, has been a cornerstone of Buffalo’s defense, but injuries have plagued him in recent years. The 31-year-old missed 11 games last season with a torn biceps and was sidelined for the entire 2023 season after suffering a broken leg. Despite these setbacks, Milano has been a standout performer in the early stages of the 2025 season, recording nine tackles and a sack through the first two weeks.
His latest injury, a pectoral issue, adds to the growing list of concerns for a Bills defense already dealing with multiple injuries to key starters. Milano’s absence, even if temporary, could significantly impact Buffalo’s defensive schemes as they face a high-powered Miami offense in a pivotal AFC East matchup.
Mounting Injuries for the Bills
Milano is not the only starter nursing an injury. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver, another critical piece of Buffalo’s defensive front, also missed Monday’s practice due to an ankle injury that kept him out of the Jets game. Nickel cornerback Taron Johnson, who is dealing with a quad injury, was limited in practice, as were defensive back Cam Lewis (shoulder) and linebacker Shaq Thompson (hamstring and hand). Meanwhile, defensive back Jordan Hancock, who had been sidelined with a shoulder injury, returned to full participation on Monday.
The mounting injury concerns come at a critical juncture for the Bills, who are 2-0 and looking to solidify their position atop the AFC East. With a short week leading into Thursday’s game, the team’s depth will be tested as they aim to contain Miami’s explosive offense.
Milano’s Impact and the Road Ahead
Milano’s contributions to the Bills’ defense cannot be overstated. His speed, instincts, and playmaking ability have made him a fan favorite and a vital part of Buffalo’s success. Through the first two games of the season, he has demonstrated his value, with his sack and nine tackles underscoring his importance to the team’s defensive identity.
However, with his status uncertain and a history of significant injuries, the Bills may need to lean on their depth players to fill the void. The team’s ability to adapt will be crucial as they prepare for a Dolphins team eager to bounce back after a challenging start to their season.
As Buffalo awaits further updates on Milano’s condition, the focus remains on rallying together for a critical divisional matchup. The Bills’ resilience will be tested, but their depth and determination could prove to be the difference in Week 3.