The Bills got a welcome boost from two veterans returning from injured reserve: wide receiver Curtis Samuel and defensive tackle Ed Oliver. They were activated to the 53-man roster, but remain labeled questionable, with reporters indicating they’re expected to play 💪🏽🟢.
Ed Oliver, in his seventh season with Buffalo, has appeared in only three games this year after averaging more than 15 games per season previously. He played in the season opener against the Ravens, notched six tackles and a sack, then was inactive until October 13. He saw action in Week 6 vs. the Falcons and Week 8 vs. the Panthers before an injury sidelined him again. At 28, he would be a welcomed upgrade to a defensive line that has relied on rookies late in the year 🧰🏈.
Curtis Samuel’s status is pivotal for the Bills’ receiving corps. If he can’t go, Buffalo would roll in with just three healthy receivers. Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers were placed on IR after last Sunday’s playoff win, joining Joshua Palmer on the injury list, leaving Brandin Cooks, Keon Coleman, and Khalil Shakir as the healthy options. Samuel has a neck and elbow injury but is expected to play, providing needed veteran depth and reliability in a thin unit 🧤🤞.
Overall, the return of Samuel and Oliver gives Buffalo a much-needed lift on both sides of the ball as they navigate a brutal playoff path. The upgraded depth could help counter Denver’s top seed and give the Bills a better chance to push deep into the postseason, even amid an injury-riddled season and a demanding schedule ahead 🏈🔥.
