As the Buffalo Bills prepare for their Week 3 AFC East primetime showdown against the Miami Dolphins on September 18, 2025, the team is grappling with a mounting injury crisis on the defensive side of the ball. Following a commanding 30-10 road victory over the New York Jets, the Bills’ Monday injury report listed six defensive players, raising concerns about their availability for the upcoming Thursday Night Football clash.
The most significant blow comes with star defensive tackle Ed Oliver, whose ankle sprain continues to keep him out of action. Spotted in a walking boot again this week, Oliver is likely to miss at least one or two more weeks, a devastating setback for Buffalo’s defensive front. His absence leaves a gaping hole in the Bills’ ability to pressure the quarterback and stop the run, putting extra strain on an already depleted unit.
Linebacker Matt Milano, another key piece of Buffalo’s defense, remains unavailable to practice as of Tuesday. While head coach Sean McDermott didn’t rule out Milano’s return for Wednesday’s practice, the lack of progress is worrisome. Milano’s potential absence against a high-octane Miami offense could prove costly, as his playmaking ability is critical to the Bills’ defensive scheme.
The Bills’ secondary is also under duress. Veteran backup linebacker Shaq Thompson, starting nickel cornerback Taron Johnson, and utility defensive back Cam Lewis were all limited in practice on Tuesday. Thompson and Johnson missed the Week 2 win over the Jets, with Johnson nursing a quad injury and Thompson dealing with his own ailments. Lewis, who filled in for Johnson, suffered a shoulder injury during the game, further complicating the depth chart. However, there’s optimism about Johnson’s return, as he appears to be trending toward playing on Thursday night.
One bright spot for Buffalo is the progress of sixth-round rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock. After being inactive in Week 2 due to a shoulder injury, Hancock was a full participant in Tuesday’s practice, signaling a potential return. His availability could provide much-needed depth in the secondary.
On the offensive side, quarterback Josh Allen avoided the injury report despite a battered nose. Allen, who will wear a visor for added protection in the upcoming game, remains ready to lead the Bills’ offense against a tough Dolphins defense.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott provided a cautiously optimistic update on Tuesday, noting, “Injury designations are exactly the same as yesterday.” While the lack of new injuries is a small relief during a shortened week, the persistent absence of key players like Oliver and Milano looms large as the Bills face a critical divisional matchup.
With the Miami Dolphins’ explosive offense, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, coming to town, the Bills’ defense will need to overcome these injury challenges to compete. The potential return of Taron Johnson and Jordan Hancock could bolster the secondary, but the absence of Ed Oliver and uncertainty surrounding Matt Milano may force Buffalo to rely on depth players and creative schemes.
As the Bills head into Thursday Night Football, fans are left hoping for positive updates on Milano’s status and a resilient performance from a battered defense. For now, Buffalo’s worst fear—a prolonged absence of star players—has been confirmed, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle in Orchard Park.