Buffalo Bills Linebacker Matt Milano and Defensive Tackle DaQuan Jones Sidelined Indefinitely with Injuries
Oct 9, 2023, 04:18 PM ET
In a disappointing turn of events for the Buffalo Bills, linebacker Matt Milano and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones will be sidelined indefinitely due to injuries sustained in their recent loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed the news on Monday, stating that both players will undergo surgery. While it remains uncertain whether they will be out for the entire season, McDermott expressed concern over their availability moving forward.
The injuries to Milano and Jones come on the heels of starting cornerback Tre’Davious White’s season-ending Achilles injury, further compounding the Bills’ defensive woes. Milano suffered what was initially described as a knee injury during the first quarter of the game against the Jaguars at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Milano’s injury occurred on a crucial third-and-6 play from the Bills’ 10-yard line. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence attempted a pass to wide receiver Christian Kirk in the end zone, but pressure from defensive tackle Ed Oliver forced an incomplete pass. Milano, along with other Bills defenders, joined in the effort to bring down Lawrence. Unfortunately, Milano fell awkwardly on top of a pile of players and had to be assisted off the field by athletic trainers. He was later carted from the sideline to the locker room.
Last season, Milano earned first-team All-Pro honors and made his first Pro Bowl appearance. His contributions to the team have been significant, with 27 tackles, 1 interception, and 2 passes defended this season. The Bills recognized his talent and signed him to a two-year contract extension through 2026 during the offseason.
DaQuan Jones, known for his consistent presence in the center of the Bills’ defensive line, has also been a key performer this season. With 2.5 sacks and five quarterback hits, Jones has been instrumental in the team’s league-leading sack numbers. Losing both Milano and Jones will undoubtedly pose a challenge for the Bills’ defense moving forward.
To address the void left by Milano’s injury, the Bills have decided to sign former cornerback Josh Norman. Norman previously played under McDermott and defensive line coach Eric Washington during their time together in Carolina. Norman’s familiarity with the coaching staff should ease his transition back into the Bills’ defensive scheme. Additionally, cornerback Christian Benford missed the game against the Jaguars due to a shoulder injury, further depleting the Bills’ secondary.
Injuries have also plagued the Bills’ offense, with tight ends Dawson Knox and Dalton Kincaid dealing with their own respective injuries. Knox is nursing a wrist injury, while Kincaid is currently in concussion protocol. McDermott did not provide specific details on their availability for upcoming games.
The Bills now face the challenge of regrouping and finding ways to overcome these significant injuries. McDermott and his coaching staff will need to make adjustments to their game plan and rely on the depth of their roster to fill the gaps left by Milano and Jones. The team’s resilience will be tested as they strive to maintain their position as one of the top contenders in the league.
In conclusion, the Buffalo Bills have been dealt a major blow with the indefinite sidelining of linebacker Matt Milano and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones due to injuries. The loss of these key defensive players, coupled with Tre’Davious White’s season-ending injury, presents a significant challenge for the team. However, with the signing of Josh Norman and the depth of their roster, the Bills are determined to overcome these setbacks and continue their pursuit of success in the NFL.