As the Buffalo Bills prepare for their Week 4 showdown against the New Orleans Saints at Highmark Stadium on September 28, 2025, the team faces significant challenges with three key starters listed as non-participants in practice. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver, linebacker Matt Milano, and right tackle Spencer Brown were all absent from Thursday’s practice, raising concerns about their availability for the upcoming game.
Injury Updates
Ed Oliver (Defensive Tackle)
Ed Oliver, a cornerstone of the Bills’ defensive line, has been sidelined since Week 2 due to an ankle sprain. While there are signs of progress—Oliver is no longer using a walking boot—his absence from practice for the second consecutive day casts doubt on his readiness for the Saints game. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses is critical, and the Bills are cautious about rushing him back.
Matt Milano (Linebacker)
Linebacker Matt Milano, a key playmaker in the Bills’ defense, has been hampered by a pectoral injury sustained in the first half of the Week 2 game against the New York Jets on September 14. Milano has not practiced since the injury, and head coach Sean McDermott has not provided a clear timetable for his return. Milano’s absence could leave a significant gap in the Bills’ linebacker corps, as his instincts and tackling ability are vital to the team’s defensive schemes.
Spencer Brown (Right Tackle)
Right tackle Spencer Brown, who has started every game this season without missing a snap, is a new addition to the injury report. Brown reportedly injured his calf during the Bills’ Week 3 victory over the Miami Dolphins. Despite downplaying the issue on One Bills Live after Wednesday’s practice, saying, “First drive, it kind of got a little weird on me during our last game, but it should be good,” his non-participation in practice suggests the Bills may take a cautious approach. If Brown is unable to play, Ryan Van Demark, who filled in during Week 11 last season against the Kansas City Chiefs, could step in as the starting right tackle.
AJ Epenesa (Defensive End)
In addition to the three non-participants, rotational defensive end AJ Epenesa was limited in practice for the second straight day due to a pectoral issue. While Epenesa’s limited participation indicates he may still be available, his reduced practice time adds another layer of concern for the Bills’ defensive front.
Coach’s Perspective
Head coach Sean McDermott offered a cautiously optimistic update on Wednesday, stating that the injured players are “headed in the right direction.” However, without a specific timeline for their return, the Bills are preparing for the possibility of facing the Saints without these key contributors. McDermott’s staff will likely prioritize player health, especially with a long season ahead, but the absence of these starters could test the team’s depth.
Bills’ Depth and Game Plan
Despite the injury concerns, the Bills enter the game as heavy betting favorites against the 0-3 Saints. The team’s 3-0 start showcases their resilience and depth, but replacing players like Oliver, Milano, and Brown will be no small task. The Bills may lean on backups like Ryan Van Demark at right tackle and other rotational players on defense to fill the voids. The coaching staff’s ability to adapt their game plan will be critical, particularly against a Saints team looking to turn their season around.
The Bills’ injury report paints a challenging picture as they approach this pivotal Week 4 matchup. While the team has shown early-season dominance, the potential absence of Oliver, Milano, and Brown could impact their performance against New Orleans. Fans will be watching closely for updates on Friday’s practice report, hoping for signs of progress from these key players. For now, the Bills’ depth and preparation will be put to the test as they aim to maintain their undefeated record.