The Buffalo Bills head into the AFC Divisional round on Jan 17 with 14 players on the injury list, leaving only seven cleared to play. Missing safety Jordan Poyer and cornerback Maxwell Hairston, the Bills must remodel their secondary and linebacker depth against a healthy Denver Broncos. The final roster will dictate whether Buffalo can stay competitive in this crucial playoff game.
Current Injury List
Official team reports confirm that 14 players are listed as out, questionable, or doubtful. Seven are expected to be active for kickoff, while the remaining seven remain uncertain. Below is a summary of the most impactful injuries.
Key Players Out and Their Impact
- Jordan Poyer (S) – Hamstring strain. His veteran leadership and quarterback‑reading ability are lost, forcing younger safeties into deep‑coverage roles.
- Maxwell Hairston (CB) – Ankle issue. The rookie’s absence reduces depth in the nickel package and limits flexibility against Denver’s varied passing attack.
- Corey Lance (WR) – Knee contusion (questionable). As a reliable third‑down target, his status affects the Bills’ ability to stretch the field.
- David Long (OL) – Wrist injury (questionable). A backup interior lineman, his availability impacts depth on the line, especially against the Broncos’ pass rush.
- Jonathan St. Pierre (DT) – Lower‑body strain (questionable). His presence anchors the run defense; his absence could open the ground game for Denver.
- Sam Hawkins (LB) – Concussion protocol (questionable). A core tackler whose health will dictate the Bills’ ability to contain interior runs and short passes.
- Khalil Mack (LB) – Ankle sprain (doubtful). His edge speed is crucial for generating pressure without over‑reliance on the defensive line.
How Injuries Shape the Broncos Matchup
Denver arrives with a relatively healthier roster, especially on the offensive line, giving them a balanced attack. The Bills’ depleted secondary and linebacker corps mean they must decide between a more conservative scheme to protect vulnerable backs or relying heavily on remaining playmakers like Tre’Davious White.
Defensive Adjustments
If Poyer and Hairston remain sidelined, Tre’Davious White will shoulder most coverage duties, risking fatigue. Reduced linebacker depth may force starter endurance, increasing the chance of late‑game lapses.
Offensive Considerations
With only seven linemen cleared, any shortfall in the trenches could elevate pressure on Josh Allen. Maintaining a clean pocket will be essential for Allen to exploit his deep‑passing ability and offset defensive weaknesses.
Potential Strategies for Buffalo
- Emphasize three‑and‑four fronts to mask linebacker shortages.
- Utilize quick‑release passing concepts to neutralize pass rush.
- Deploy situational packages that maximize the strengths of healthy players.
- Rely on veteran leadership in the secondary to organize coverage without Poyer.
What to Expect on Jan 17
The final medical updates, due Thursday night, will confirm who suits up. Regardless of the exact lineup, the Bills must balance aggression with caution, protecting key players while seeking to exploit any mismatches against the Broncos. Health will likely be the decisive factor in whether Buffalo advances or sees its playoff run end.
