The Buffalo Bills defense is set to get a major boost as Matt Milano, one of the NFL’s top linebackers, is nearing a return from injured reserve. Milano’s three-week window to return to practice has officially opened, and while he won’t be suiting up just yet, the veteran linebacker is on track to rejoin the defense soon after the team’s bye week. Milano’s potential return is a welcome sign for a defense that’s been navigating linebacker injuries all season.
However, even with Milano’s impending comeback, the Bills may still need some short-term help in the meantime. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, Buffalo’s linebacker depth has been a concern, especially after Baylon Spector was placed on injured reserve with a calf injury. With the team’s depth already tested, Ballentine suggests the Bills could look to another AFC squad’s practice squad for help—specifically, the Denver Broncos—and potentially sign Kwon Alexander, a veteran linebacker with plenty of experience who’s currently not on an NFL roster.
The Bills’ Linebacker Depth Issues
While the Bills’ defense has been solid overall this season, their linebacker corps has been shaky due to injuries. With Matt Milano out since training camp after suffering a torn pectoral muscle, the team has had to rely on other players to step up in his absence. Buffalo has been rotating Dorian Williams, Terrel Bernard, and Nicholas Morrow in the middle, but as Ballentine pointed out, they are “one more injury away from being in serious trouble” at linebacker.
That’s where veteran help could come into play.
Could Kwon Alexander Be the Answer?
The Buffalo Bills might not have to wait long to solidify their linebacker group if they decide to pull the trigger on veteran Kwon Alexander. Currently on the Denver Broncos’ practice squad, Alexander has been called up a few times this season, appearing in two games for the Broncos. While his role has been relatively light in recent seasons, Alexander has shown he can still contribute when needed. In fact, he’s played in 107 games over a 10-year NFL career, giving him a wealth of experience that could help the Bills as they navigate their linebacker depth issues.
Even though Alexander has seen limited action in 2023—only two games for Denver—his experience and ability to step in when called upon could make him an attractive option for the Bills. If the Broncos don’t promote him to their active roster, the Bills might just poach the veteran to add much-needed depth as they wait for Milano’s return.
Alexander’s ability to step in and contribute to a team’s defense—combined with his leadership and knowledge of the game—could make him a solid short-term solution while Milano gets back up to speed.
Matt Milano’s Road to Recovery
Of course, the best news for the Bills is the imminent return of Matt Milano, who has been sidelined since the summer after suffering a torn pectoral muscle. Milano’s return would be a game-changer for a Bills defense that has missed his playmaking ability, leadership, and versatility.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott had nothing but praise for Milano’s resilience this week, calling his recovery “amazing.” He said, “You talk about a guy that’s been on a journey, right? Two years now of going through what he’s gone through, it’s just amazing to watch his resilient nature. He’s so persistent. He’s got a goal, and he’s worked his butt off to get back to where he’s at.”
According to Matt Bove of WKBW in Buffalo, Milano looked sharp in his first full practice back this week. While he won’t be back in time for this Sunday’s critical matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, Bove noted that it wouldn’t be a surprise if Milano was ready to play after the Bills’ bye week, when they face the San Francisco 49ers in Week 13.
Looking Ahead
With Matt Milano likely on the brink of returning, the Bills’ defense will be much stronger for the final stretch of the season. However, with depth at linebacker still a concern, adding a veteran like Kwon Alexander could provide the short-term reinforcement the team needs. Milano’s presence will immediately strengthen the middle of the defense, but in the meantime, the Bills must ensure they don’t suffer from another injury at linebacker.
Whether they choose to add Alexander or not, the Bills are in a much better position now than they were just a few weeks ago, with Milano’s return on the horizon. But for now, the team will need to hold the fort with the linebackers they have and make sure they’re fully prepared for a potential stretch run toward the playoffs.
