The Buffalo Bills are bringing back a familiar veteran to their defense as the playoffs near.
On January 11, the team announced the signing of linebacker A.J. Klein to their practice squad, his latest stint with the team. To make place for Klein, the Bills waived defensive tackle Eli Ankou off the practice squad.
The Bills enter their game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 14 with some defensive questions after an injury-plagued season finale win over the Miami Dolphins, and Klein will now be able to give some seasoned depth.
Bills Bolster Defense
Thursday injury report pic.twitter.com/BXNpOpPAtW
— Buffalo Bills PR (@BuffaloBillsPR) January 11, 2024
The Bills are facing potential gaps in their defense as they gear up for the playoffs, with seven players, including linebacker Tyrel Dodson, cornerback Rasul Douglas, and safety Taylor Rapp, missing Thursday’s practice. The offense is also dealing with setbacks as wide receiver Gabe Davis has a knee issue, and both left tackle Dion Dawkins and tight end Dawson Knox are sidelined due to illness.
Despite these challenges, Bills head coach Sean McDermott commended the team for overcoming adversity in their January 7 victory over the Dolphins, securing a fourth consecutive AFC East title.
McDermott emphasized the importance of moving forward and staying prepared, acknowledging the unpredictability of when players may be called into action, as was the case with Baylon Spector, Vandy Ryan Van Demark, and Trent Sherfield in the recent game.
On the other side, the Steelers are grappling with injuries, notably losing star linebacker T.J. Watt to a knee injury in their Week 18 win against the Baltimore Ravens. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin expressed confidence in the team’s linebacker depth, highlighting the readiness of players like Kyron Johnson, who has been active in recent weeks, primarily contributing on special teams. Tomlin emphasized the team’s comfort with the available personnel, stressing their capability and familiarity with the game plan.
A.J. Klein Hinted at Retirement
Klein has a deep familiarity with McDermott’s defensive system, having played for the Bills from 2020 to 2021. He rejoined the team midway through the 2022 season after brief stints with the Chicago Bears and Baltimore Ravens.
During the current season, Klein spent time on the practice squad and participated in two games. However, he was released in December when the Bills brought tight end Dawson Knox back from injured reserve.
This stint with the team might mark Klein’s final chapter. Before the season began, the respected veteran hinted that he was considering one last NFL season and expressed his desire for it to be in Buffalo.
Speaking to The Buffalo News, Klein shared, “This is the one place I knew I could come to and win the Super Bowl and be around quality people and quality teammates. If this is the end of my journey as far as football goes, I want it to be here in Buffalo.”