As the Buffalo Bills prepare for their Week 8 road game against the Carolina Panthers on October 26, 2025, their injury report remains a significant concern, with no upgrades in player participation during Thursday’s practice. The lack of progress for key players casts a shadow over the team’s game plan, potentially impacting their performance in a critical matchup.
Key Players Stuck in Limited Status
Tight end Dalton Kincaid, wide receiver Curtis Samuel, and linebacker Matt Milano all remained limited in practice for the second consecutive day. The trio, who missed the Bills’ Week 6 loss to the Atlanta Falcons, have yet to show signs of returning to full participation. This stagnation is particularly troubling for Kincaid, who led the team in receiving through the first five games of the season, making his presence vital for Buffalo’s offensive strategy.
Kincaid, nursing an oblique injury, and Samuel, dealing with rib issues, were listed as questionable for the Falcons game. Milano, who reinjured his pectoral in Week 5, did not practice at all leading up to that matchup. While a small positive note emerged with Kincaid no longer wearing a red non-contact jersey during media-viewed practice sessions, head coach Sean McDermott described all three players as “day to day,” leaving their availability for Week 8 uncertain.
Additional Injury Concerns
Linebacker Terrel Bernard, who suffered an ankle injury in the Atlanta game, also remained limited in practice. His status adds to the growing list of uncertainties for a defense already stretched thin without Milano’s full contributions.
Three players—defensive tackle DaQuan Jones, wide receiver Joshua Palmer, and safety Taylor Rapp—were non-participants for the second straight day. Jones, labeled “week to week” after injuring his calf during pregame warmups on October 13, and Palmer, who sustained a knee/ankle injury during a second-quarter reception in the same game, continue to be sidelined. Rapp, a new addition to the injury report with a knee issue linked to training camp troubles, further complicates Buffalo’s defensive outlook.
Rookie Progress, But Not Enough
On a slightly brighter note, first-round rookie cornerback Maxwell Hairston practiced in a limited capacity for the second day. Currently on Injured Reserve, Hairston’s 21-day activation window opened post-bye week. However, given McDermott’s cautious approach, the rookie is unlikely to debut until he completes a full week of practice, with Week 10 against the Miami Dolphins being a more realistic target.
Official Bills’ Injury Report (Week 8)
Thursday
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DT DaQuan Jones (calf) — Did Not Participate (DNP)
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WR Joshua Palmer (knee/ankle) — DNP
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S Taylor Rapp (knee) — DNP
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LB Terrel Bernard (ankle) — Limited
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TE Dalton Kincaid (oblique) — Limited
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LB Matt Milano (pectoral) — Limited
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WR Curtis Samuel (ribs) — Limited
-
CB Maxwell Hairston (knee) — Limited (IR)
Wednesday
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DT DaQuan Jones (calf) — DNP
-
WR Joshua Palmer (knee/ankle) — DNP
-
S Taylor Rapp (knee) — DNP
-
LB Terrel Bernard (ankle) — Limited
-
TE Dalton Kincaid (oblique) — Limited
-
LB Matt Milano (pectoral) — Limited
-
WR Curtis Samuel (ribs) — Limited
-
CB Maxwell Hairston (knee) — Limited (IR)
A Looming Threat to Week 8
The Bills’ stagnant injury report is a nightmare scenario as they approach a pivotal game against the Panthers. Without key contributors like Kincaid, Samuel, and Milano, Buffalo’s offensive and defensive units could face significant challenges. The absence of Jones and Rapp further weakens the defense, while Palmer’s unavailability limits the receiving corps. With no upgrades in sight, the Bills may need to rely on depth players and strategic adjustments to compensate.
As the team heads into the final practice sessions before Sunday’s matchup, all eyes will be on whether any of these players can progress to full participation. For now, the “frozen” injury report serves as a serious threat to Buffalo’s Week 8 game plan, leaving fans and coaches alike holding their breath.