Buffalo Bills fans have every reason to celebrate this week as one of their most influential defensive players, linebacker Matt Milano, makes his highly anticipated return to the team’s 53-man roster. After an extended period away from the field due to injury, the 2022 NFL All-Pro is poised to potentially make a significant impact in the Bills’ Week 13 showdown against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football. Milano has officially been activated off injured reserve (IR), though his status for the game remains uncertain as he is still listed as questionable on the injury report.
Milano’s return headlines a week of key roster moves for Buffalo. Alongside the linebacker’s activation, the team has elevated quarterback Mike White and tight end Zach Davidson from the practice squad to bolster depth. However, the Bills also announced that defensive tackle DeWayne Carter has been ruled out and placed on injured reserve due to a wrist injury.
For Milano, this moment has been a long time coming. The standout linebacker has not played since Week 5 of the 2023 season, a campaign that was abruptly ended by a severe leg injury sustained during an international game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. After enduring a grueling rehabilitation process throughout the offseason, he returned to practice during training camp at St. John Fisher University, looking ready to reclaim his spot as a cornerstone of the defense. Unfortunately, a biceps injury on August 15 forced another setback, resulting in Milano being placed on IR on August 27. The road back has been anything but easy, but Milano’s perseverance and determination have finally paid off.
Reflecting on his journey, Milano spoke about the emotional and physical challenges he has overcome. “It feels good just to be out there with the guys, man. Be competing again and playing ball,” Milano shared after a recent practice. His presence on the field has been a welcome sight for his teammates, who have eagerly awaited the return of their defensive leader.
Quarterback Josh Allen, a key figure on the offensive side, expressed his admiration for Milano’s resilience and the energy he brings to the team. “Just extremely happy for him, getting back out there and flying around and making some plays,” Allen said. “He’s battled quite a few things over the last year and a half. So, the boys are very happy for him, I’ll tell you that.” Allen also emphasized that whenever Milano officially takes the field again, the team is confident he will be ready to contribute at the highest level.
Milano’s return could be a game-changer for the Bills. In his last full season in 2022, the linebacker was a defensive powerhouse, recording 99 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 3 interceptions, 12 tackles for loss, and 7 quarterback hits. His standout performances earned him both a Pro Bowl selection and an All-Pro nod for the first time in his career, cementing his reputation as one of the league’s elite defensive players.
Cornerback Taron Johnson underscored Milano’s value to the team and the difference he makes when on the field. “The way Matt plays the game, the way he has played the game, is special,” Johnson said. “So having a guy like that on the field is going to make our defense tremendously better. So whether he’s here this week or whenever that time comes, I’m just excited to have him back.” Johnson’s sentiments echo the widespread excitement within the locker room and among the fans.
Milano’s activation also comes at a crucial juncture in the Bills’ season. With the team fighting to secure a playoff spot, his return to the lineup could provide a much-needed spark, especially against a formidable opponent like the 49ers. Known for his instinctive play, physicality, and leadership, Milano’s presence could bolster a defense looking to regain its identity and consistency during the final stretch of the regular season.
As the clock ticks down to Sunday night, all eyes are on Milano and the Bills’ coaching staff, who will determine his game-day status. The team is expected to announce whether the linebacker will be active for the matchup at 6:50 p.m. on Sunday. Should he step onto the field, it will mark a triumphant moment in his career—a testament to his resilience, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to his team.
Buffalo fans and players alike know that having Milano back is not just a boost in talent but a reminder of the toughness and determination that define the Bills’ culture. Whether he plays this week or in the near future, his return promises to inject new life into a team hungry for success as they chase their postseason ambitions.