Bills vs. Dolphins Injury Update: Sean McDermott Reveals Major Defensive Setback Ahead of Week 10

The Buffalo Bills are heading into their Week 10 clash against the Miami Dolphins with mounting injury concerns. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed on Friday that several key defensive players will miss the game, dealing a significant blow to Buffalo’s defense as they aim to maintain control in the AFC East.

McDermott revealed that edge rusher AJ Epenesa and veteran linebacker Shaq Thompson have both been ruled out, while cornerback Christian Benford and defensive lineman DaQuan Jones remain questionable. The update compounds an already difficult stretch for the Bills, who are trying to stay healthy during the second half of the season.

Buffalo Defense Faces More Challenges in Week 10

The 6-2 Bills have leaned heavily on their defense this season, which ranks among the NFL’s top units in points and passing yards allowed. However, recent injuries are beginning to test their depth. McDermott addressed the team’s mounting health problems on Friday, expressing concern over the frequency of practice-related injuries.

“We thoroughly vet it,” McDermott said, via Syracuse.com reporter Matt Parino. “If we knew exactly, it would get stopped in the medical department. But it goes beyond that department and scheduling, looking at everything that way. What do you do? Do you not practice?”

Buffalo will be without Epenesa, who sustained a concussion during or after last week’s win over the Kansas City Chiefs. The 2020 second-round pick had been an important rotational piece along the defensive line. Meanwhile, linebacker Shaq Thompson will miss his second consecutive game due to a nagging hamstring injury, further depleting the team’s experience in the middle of the defense.

McDermott also confirmed that both Taron Johnson and DaQuan Jones are listed as questionable. Cornerback Christian Benford, who injured himself during practice, joins them on the list as the Bills prepare for a Dolphins team desperate to end a losing streak.

Recent Season-Ending Losses Add to the Pressure

In addition to the latest injuries, Buffalo has already lost two key defensive starters for the year. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver underwent season-ending surgery for a torn bicep sustained in Week 8, while defensive end Michael Hoecht tore his Achilles in last week’s victory over Kansas City. Both injuries occurred shortly after the players returned from extended absences, leaving the team thin along the defensive front.

Despite these challenges, the Bills remain one of the NFL’s most efficient defensive teams against the pass, ranking second in yards allowed. However, stopping the run has been an issue, with the team surrendering over 1,100 rushing yards—seventh-most in the league.

Buffalo will need its next men up to perform as they face a Miami offense capable of explosive plays, even amid its recent slump. McDermott’s defensive rotation will likely rely on younger players and backups to fill crucial roles.

The Bills enter Week 10 battered but determined. With the Dolphins struggling, Buffalo’s resilience on defense could define their path back to the top of the AFC East. However, the absence of multiple starters makes this matchup far from predictable.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Which players are ruled out for the Bills vs. Dolphins game?

Sean McDermott confirmed that AJ Epenesa and Shaq Thompson will not play due to concussion and hamstring injuries respectively.

Q2: Who is questionable for the Bills in Week 10?

Christian Benford, DaQuan Jones, and Taron Johnson are all listed as questionable ahead of Sunday’s matchup.

Q3: What injuries have recently ended players’ seasons?

Defensive tackle Ed Oliver suffered a torn bicep, and defensive end Michael Hoecht tore his Achilles, both requiring season-ending surgery.

Q4: How has Buffalo’s defense performed overall?

The Bills rank sixth in points allowed and second in passing yards allowed, but have struggled against the run this season.

Q5: When and where is the Bills vs. Dolphins game?

The game will take place Sunday in Miami as part of the NFL’s Week 10 schedule.