Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones are both set to undergo surgery for injuries they sustained during Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, according to coach Sean McDermott. This news comes as a major blow to the Bills’ defense, which has been performing exceptionally well this season. Milano, who is coming off an All-Pro season, is tied for second in the NFL with two interceptions.
Losing Milano and Jones for an extended period of time will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the Bills’ defense. Milano, in particular, has been a key player in bringing the defensive unit together. His combination of play recognition, instincts, speed, strength, and physicality make him one of the most versatile and impactful linebackers in the league. Without Milano, the Bills will likely have to rely on inexperienced players at the linebacker position.
Terrel Bernard, who has started six games, including five this season, will now be the steadying hand for the Bills’ defense. Rookie Dorian Williams is Milano’s direct backup, but he was replaced during the game by Tyrel Dodson, who has primarily been a special teams asset. Another option for the Bills is veteran practice squad linebacker A.J. Klein, who has experience in McDermott’s defensive scheme. However, Klein was released after the preseason and only brought back after Christian Kirksey retired. If none of these options prove to be effective in the coming weeks, the Bills may need to consider making a move at linebacker.
In addition to Milano, the loss of Jones is also significant for the Bills’ defense. Jones has been one of their most impactful run defenders and has added an elite pass-rushing component to his game this season. His ability to win one-on-one matchups and disrupt opponents’ plays has been crucial for the Bills’ success. Now, the team will have to find a replacement for Jones among Jordan Phillips, Tim Settle, or Poona Ford. While these players can contribute as pass rushers, none of them possess the same run-stuffing abilities that Jones has demonstrated since joining the team in 2022. The Bills’ run defense struggled in the only game Jones missed last season, which was their playoff loss to the Bengals.
The injuries to Milano and Jones highlight the challenges that the Bills will face in maintaining their defensive prowess. Both players have been instrumental in the team’s success, and their absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field. However, the Bills have shown resilience in the past and have the opportunity to adapt and find suitable replacements. It will be crucial for the coaching staff to make strategic decisions and for the remaining players to step up and fill the void left by Milano and Jones.
In conclusion, the injuries to Matt Milano and DaQuan Jones are a significant setback for the Buffalo Bills’ defense. Milano’s versatility and impact as a linebacker, along with Jones’ run-stuffing and pass-rushing abilities, will be sorely missed. The Bills will need to rely on inexperienced players and potentially make adjustments to their defensive lineup in order to compensate for these losses. It remains to be seen how the team will fare without Milano and Jones, but their absence will undoubtedly present challenges that the Bills must overcome.