The Buffalo Bills are set to receive a significant defensive boost soon with the return of Pro Bowler Matt Milano, though a recent report suggests the team might need temporary help until he’s fully ready to play.
The Bills announced this week that Milano’s three-week window to return from injured reserve has opened, allowing him to begin practicing again. While he’s not yet ready to play, Milano is expected to be back on the field shortly after the team’s bye week.
With several linebacker injuries still lingering, Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine pointed out that the Bills might consider bringing in a linebacker from another AFC team’s practice squad for additional depth.
Potential Target: Kwon Alexander from the Broncos
Ballentine noted that linebacker depth has been a concern for the Bills all season, especially after Baylon Spector was placed on injured reserve with a calf issue. Although Dorian Williams, Terrel Bernard, and Nicholas Morrow are still active, the team is one injury away from being dangerously thin at the position.
As a potential solution, Ballentine suggested the Bills could target veteran linebacker Kwon Alexander, who is currently on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad. The Broncos have called up Alexander several times this season, and while he’s played well in limited action, Denver hasn’t yet added him to their active roster, which puts them at risk of losing him.
With 107 career games across 10 seasons, Alexander could be a valuable addition to the Bills’ linebacker corps, especially given his experience and past contributions with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Broncos.
Encouraging Signs for Matt Milano’s Return
Despite the need for extra depth in the short term, the Bills are optimistic about Milano’s return. He has been out since training camp due to a torn pectoral muscle but could be ready to play after this Sunday’s game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
Matt Bove of WKBW in Buffalo reported that Milano looked impressive in practice this week. While he won’t play this weekend, Bove speculated that Milano could be back in action following the bye, for the game against the San Francisco 49ers.
Milano’s recovery has been a long journey. He also missed most of the 2023 season after suffering a fractured leg. Head coach Sean McDermott praised Milano’s resilience, noting his determination to return to full health despite the challenges he’s faced. “It’s amazing to watch his resilient nature,” McDermott said. “He’s worked his butt off to get back to where he’s at.”
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