Many Buffalo Bills players are excelling as the regular season approaches its final three games. However, injuries—an inevitable part of the NFL at this stage—are impacting teams’ chances for postseason success. For example, the Detroit Lions lost running back David Montgomery following their Week 15 loss to the Bills, and the Kansas City Chiefs have dealt with injuries to their wide receivers throughout the season. The Chiefs’ depth at the position has helped mitigate these setbacks.
Injuries have also taken a significant toll on teams like the San Francisco 49ers and the Lions, creating challenges as they push toward playoff contention. By this point in the season, any team that remains fully healthy is either exceptionally fortunate or not playing with maximum intensity.
The Bills clinched the AFC East by Thanksgiving but are still vying for the AFC’s top seed. Achieving this goal may prove difficult if the Chiefs lose only one more game. Head coach Sean McDermott should start prioritizing playoff preparation, potentially resting key players in matchups against weaker opponents, such as the New England Patriots. Preserving the health and stability of crucial contributors could be vital for a deep playoff run.
Three Bills Players Who Should Be Rested Against the New England Patriots
Treading Carefully With An Oft-Injured Star
Several Buffalo Bills players are thriving as the team enters the final stretch of the regular season. However, injuries are affecting all NFL teams at this stage, potentially altering playoff prospects. For instance, the Detroit Lions lost running back David Montgomery following their Week 15 defeat to the Bills, while the Kansas City Chiefs have endured injuries to their wide receivers throughout the year. Fortunately for Kansas City, their depth at the position has helped them adapt.
In 2024, injuries have significantly impacted teams like the San Francisco 49ers and the Lions, illustrating the challenges of maintaining a healthy roster late in the season. Any team still fully healthy at this point is either remarkably lucky or not competing at full intensity.
The Bills secured the AFC East title by Thanksgiving but remain in contention for the AFC’s top seed. Achieving this might be difficult if the Chiefs suffer just one more loss. Regardless of their final position, head coach Sean McDermott should focus on preparing for the playoffs. Resting key players against a weaker opponent, such as the New England Patriots, could help ensure the team’s core remains fresh and ready for a deep postseason run.
An Injury-Riddled Defensive Unit
Cornerback Rasul Douglas (knee) and safeties Damar Hamlin (rib) and Taylor Rapp (neck) were all limited in practice this week, and all three are likely to be listed as questionable for the upcoming game against the Patriots. The Bills’ secondary has struggled in recent weeks, particularly in their matchups against the Rams and Lions.
Against the Rams, Buffalo allowed 320 yards, 15 passes for first downs, and 10.7 yards per pass attempt from Matthew Stafford. While the Bills managed to beat the Lions, their defense gave up 470 passing yards to Jared Goff. Much of that yardage came after Buffalo built a significant lead in the first half and controlled the game. However, the fact that Detroit was able to make the game close and continue scoring meant that the secondary was in need of rest following two high-scoring battles. Douglas, who missed the Detroit game, is still dealing with a lingering injury.
Backing Up The Leading Bills Players
Sitting Rasul Douglas out against New England would allow the backup players to gain valuable experience in a game situation while also giving Douglas the chance to fully recover and approach 100%. This could help ensure that he’s at his best for the more crucial games ahead, especially as the playoffs approach.
Rookie safety Cole Bishop could benefit from getting meaningful reps in this game, which would help prepare him for potential playoff matchups against stronger offenses. Ja’Marcus Ingram, who has two interceptions, including a touchdown return, could also provide additional depth and playmaking potential in the secondary.
Taylor Rapp has been a key contributor to the Bills’ defense this season, registering 75 tackles, two interceptions, six pass defenses, and a forced fumble. Given the seriousness of neck injuries, no matter how minor they may seem, it’s important to prioritize Rapp’s health. McDermott should consider resting him this week to allow for healing, ensuring he’s fully ready for the critical stretch run.
While resting starting running back James Cook seems less likely since he’s healthy and productive, McDermott might want to consider resting key defensive players like Matt Milano, Rasul Douglas, and Taylor Rapp for the next three weeks. This would give them ample recovery time for a playoff push, especially as the Bills look to make a deep postseason run.
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