Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano is facing a significant setback, as head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Milano sustained a torn bicep injury during a recent training session. This injury will require surgery, sidelining the key defensive player for an extended period.
McDermott spoke highly of Milano’s resilience and character during a press conference, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation, especially following Milano’s standout performance in the previous season. He expressed confidence that Milano would handle the challenge, supported by his family, teammates, coaching staff, and the entire organization.
Milano has been a crucial part of the Buffalo Bills since they drafted him in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over his eight seasons with the team, he has started in 74 of the 90 games he’s played, accumulating 488 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and 39 passes defended. His exceptional 2022 season earned him a spot on the All-Pro first team, underscoring his importance to the Bills’ defense. In March 2023, Milano’s value to the team was further recognized when he signed a two-year contract extension.
The recovery timeline for a torn bicep is typically three to four months, which means Milano might return to the field in December. However, McDermott emphasized that it is too early to predict when Milano will be ready to play again, leaving his return date uncertain.
Milano’s injury history has been challenging. In addition to this recent setback, he suffered a fractured leg during Week 5 of the 2023 season while playing against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London, which ended his season prematurely. Despite these injuries, Milano’s impact on the Bills has been significant, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt.
In the meantime, the Bills will look to second-year linebacker Dorian Williams to step up in Milano’s absence. Williams, who made two starts in 14 appearances and recorded 40 tackles last season, has shown promise. McDermott expressed confidence in Williams’ ability to fill the void left by Milano but stressed that it would be a team effort to compensate for the loss.
“Dorian is going to do a good job; he’s been making progress. And now it’s not only his time to step up, but all the teammates around him to step up. It’s not just one person’s job to fill the void or try to fill the void left by Matt,” McDermott said, highlighting the collective responsibility the team will need to shoulder in Milano’s absence.
As the Bills navigate this challenging situation, the team will need to rely on its depth and resilience to maintain their defensive strength. Milano’s return, whenever it happens, will be eagerly anticipated by the team and fans alike.