Significant Absences in Buffalo Bills’ Upcoming Game Against Houston Texans

Injury Update: Key Bills Players Ruled Out

The Buffalo Bills will be facing the Houston Texans in Sunday’s game without the presence of several valuable team members. The list of absentees includes wide receiver Khalil Shakir, defensive tackles Ed Oliver and Austin Johnson, and safety Taylor Rapp. All these players were declared unfit to play by coach Sean McDermott on Friday.

While Oliver is dealing with a hamstring injury acquired during Thursday’s practice, the rest of the players have been suffering from game-related injuries. Johnson has an oblique injury, Rapp is in concussion protocol, and Shakir is nursing an ankle injury. Consequently, none of these players have been able to participate in practice this week.

Impact on the Bills’ Offensive Line

Shakir, the team’s top receiver through the first four games, has made 18 catches on 19 targets for a total of 230 yards and two touchdowns. In his absence, Curtis Samuel and several other receivers will be expected to step up and fill the void.

“Shakir is an invaluable player to us and Josh [Allen] has built considerable confidence and rapport with him. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but it also provides an opportunity for others to step up,” stated McDermott. The coach, however, has not yet discussed with head athletic trainer Nate Breske the duration of Oliver’s absence due to his injury.

Defensive Adjustments and Uncertainties

In terms of the defensive lineup, the available defensive tackles on the active roster include DaQuan Jones, rookie DeWayne Carter, and Zion Logue, a new addition from the Atlanta Falcons practice squad this week. Eli Ankou and Branson Deen are also available on the practice squad.

With Rapp’s absence, second-round pick Cole Bishop will get his first NFL start alongside Damar Hamlin. Uncertainty surrounds the availability of linebacker Terrel Bernard (pectoral) and nickel corner Taron Johnson (forearm), who have been limited in practice all week and are questionable for the game.

McDermott’s Assessment of Injured Players

Bernard was injured in Week 2, while Johnson has been out since the first drive of Week 1. McDermott expressed that Bernard is progressing faster than Johnson, who remained in a noncontact jersey for Friday’s practice. However, further developments will be assessed as Friday’s practice progresses.