The Buffalo Bills are preparing to face the Kansas City Chiefs in the divisional round game, but they have a significant issue to contend with: a slew of injuries affecting key players in all three phases of the game. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed on Friday that four players will be ruled out for the upcoming matchup: wide receiver Gabe Davis, safety Taylor Rapp, linebacker Baylon Spector, and cornerback Christian Benford.
It will be the second consecutive game that Davis and Rapp will miss due to injuries sustained in the regular-season finale against the Miami Dolphins. Their absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field. Spector and Benford, on the other hand, suffered injuries in the playoff win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, adding to the Bills’ list of sidelined players.
Despite the negative news, there is some optimism regarding the availability of linebacker Tyrel Dodson and cornerback Rasul Douglas. Both players missed the previous game but are on track to make a return. This will undoubtedly provide a much-needed boost to the team. However, the Bills still have several other injuries to manage before Sunday’s game.
One of the most worrying injuries is to starting middle linebacker Terrel Bernard, who has yet to take part in practice this week due to an ankle injury. During Monday’s victory, Bernard was carted off the field, causing major concern for the coaching staff. McDermott stated that they would monitor Bernard’s progress closely as they approach Sunday’s game, leaving his status uncertain.
The Injury List Continues
In addition to Bernard’s absence, the Bills are also dealing with injuries to punter Sam Martin (left hamstring), nickelback Taron Johnson (concussion protocol), and star wide receiver Stefon Diggs (foot). The team remains hopeful but cautious as they navigate through these injury concerns.
To mitigate the potential absence of Sam Martin, the Bills have signed punter Matt Haack to the practice squad as a precautionary measure. Meanwhile, Diggs’ foot injury has raised some concerns among fans. McDermott addressed the issue, stating that it was not initially apparent but became noticeable in the days following the previous game. Despite this, McDermott expressed optimism about Diggs’ availability for the upcoming matchup, emphasizing that they are taking it one day at a time.
The Buffalo Bills are facing a significant challenge as they enter the divisional round game against the Kansas City Chiefs. With multiple key players ruled out and others battling injuries, the team’s depth and resiliency will be tested. However, McDermott and his staff remain focused on finding solutions and making necessary adjustments to ensure a competitive performance on Sunday. It’s a challenging situation, but the Bills are determined to overcome these obstacles and advance further in the playoffs.
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