In a positive development for the Buffalo Bills’ offensive line, starting right tackle Spencer Brown has provided an encouraging update on his shoulder injury ahead of Sunday’s pivotal Week 14 clash against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Brown, who missed last weekend’s impressive victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers due to the shoulder issue, spoke to reporters on Wednesday, signaling that he’s nearing a return to action. The injury occurred the previous week, marking the second time this season the fifth-year veteran has been sidelined— he also sat out Week 4’s win against the New Orleans Saints with a calf problem.
“I’m pretty close, I think,” Brown told WROC’s Thad Brown during Wednesday’s media availability. “Just taking it day by day. Obviously, today was a walk-thru, so I just got out here and got my feet moving a little bit.”
The 6-foot-8, 311-pound tackle emphasized that Thursday’s practice would be a key indicator of his readiness. “Got practice (on Thursday), that will be a big tell for me, personally,” he added. “Just put myself in the best to play and if I can’t, then (Ryan Van Demark) will be out there doing his thing again.”
Brown was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s walkthrough and was spotted back on the field Thursday with a protective wrap around his right shoulder, a sign that he’s progressing through the recovery process.
Offensive Line’s Resilience and the Road Ahead
In Brown’s absence against the Steelers—alongside fellow tackle Dion Dawkins—the Bills’ makeshift offensive line rose to the occasion. Backup tackles Ryan Van Demark and Alec Anderson stepped up admirably, helping the team rush for a franchise-record 249 yards while keeping quarterback Josh Allen completely untouched by Pittsburgh’s formidable pass rush, which features stars like T.J. Watt.
Despite the strong performance from the reserves, the Bills’ front five operates at peak efficiency with their starters intact. According to ESPN analytics, Buffalo ranks No. 1 in the NFL in pass block win rate (73%) and No. 2 in run block win rate (74%) when Brown and Dawkins anchor the edges.
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A return for both bookend tackles would be a massive boost as the Bills (currently holding a strong position in the AFC East) look to maintain momentum in the playoff hunt. The Bengals, led by quarterback Joe Burrow and a dynamic receiving corps, present a tough challenge, especially on the road at Paycor Stadium.
Implications for Week 14
Head coach Sean McDermott has yet to provide an official update, but Brown’s comments suggest optimism. If he suits up, it could solidify Buffalo’s protection scheme against Cincinnati’s pass rush, which has been opportunistic this season.
Fans and fantasy football owners alike will be monitoring Friday’s injury report closely for the final designation. In the meantime, Brown’s proactive approach to recovery underscores his commitment to getting back on the field for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Bills prepare for what promises to be an intense AFC showdown this Sunday. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. ET.