The Buffalo Bills have promoted wide receiver Tyrell Shavers and defensive tackle Branson Deen from their practice squad ahead of their Week 5 matchup against the Houston Texans. This move comes in response to injuries on the team, with Shavers replacing lead wideout Khalil Shakir, who has been ruled out due to an ankle injury, and Deen filling in for interior defensive lineman Ed Oliver, who suffered a hamstring injury during practice.

Shavers had a strong showing during training camp and preseason, drawing praise from head coach Sean McDermott, offensive coordinator Joe Brady, and quarterback Josh Allen. Despite his standout performances, he did not initially make the Bills’ 53-man roster, surprising many who expected him to secure a spot based on his consistent contributions to both the first and second teams in practice. Shavers’ promotion now offers him a chance to contribute on offense, though his role remains unclear, as Curtis Samuel is expected to handle most of Shakir’s snaps. In addition to his potential offensive involvement, Shavers is likely to contribute on special teams as a gunner, a role he has excelled in.

On the defensive side, Branson Deen also caught the coaching staff’s attention during preseason. Deen, who was signed by the Bills after going undrafted in 2024, made a case for himself through solid performances, recording three tackles and three pressures in preseason games. His college career stats include 92 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 10 sacks over five years, showcasing his ability as a productive defensive lineman despite being considered undersized for his position.

Deen’s performance in camp and preseason earned him a place over Gable Steveson, an Olympic gold medalist wrestler who had been competing for a developmental defensive tackle spot on the team. This decision highlights the faith the Bills have in Deen’s potential. With Ed Oliver unavailable due to injury, Deen will now make his NFL debut and join Buffalo’s active defensive tackle rotation, which includes DaQuan Jones, DeWayne Carter, and recent signee Zion Logue.

Both Shavers and Deen have an opportunity to showcase their skills at a higher level with these promotions. Shavers’ chance to play depends on how the coaching staff decides to allocate snaps, but he will likely see the field in some capacity, especially on special teams. Deen’s role appears more clearly defined, as he will be relied upon to help fill the void left by Oliver’s absence on the defensive line.

The Bills’ decision to elevate these two players reflects their confidence in the young talent they have developed through their practice squad and preseason. As Buffalo prepares for its clash with Houston, both Shavers and Deen will look to make the most of their opportunities and contribute to the team’s efforts in securing a victory in Week 5.