Falcons’ Jake Matthews, Bills’ Joshua Palmer Injured – How Serious Are Their Ankle Setbacks on MNF?

Monday Night Football delivered more than just high-stakes action — it brought major injury concerns for both teams. Falcons left tackle Jake Matthews and Bills wide receiver Joshua Palmer were both ruled out with ankle injuries during Atlanta’s clash with Buffalo on October 13, 2025, raising questions about how severe their setbacks might be.

The two injuries occurred in the first half and could have ripple effects well beyond this week’s game. Both Matthews and Palmer are key to their respective teams’ success, and their absence could change the course of their seasons.

Jake Matthews’ Rare Exit Sends Shockwaves Through Falcons’ O-Line

The Atlanta Falcons were dealt a major blow when veteran left tackle Jake Matthews exited the game after suffering an ankle injury. Matthews was rolled up from behind during a play and remained on the ground before being helped off the field. He was quickly ruled out for the remainder of the contest.

This marks an unusual situation for the 32-year-old, who is widely known as one of the NFL’s most durable offensive linemen. Since missing a single game in his rookie season in 2014, Matthews has started every contest for the Falcons and played 100 percent of their offensive snaps this year before Monday night.

His absence leaves a significant hole on the offensive line, especially protecting rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr.’s blindside. Atlanta will now have to rely on backup options, but none bring the same level of experience or leadership. If Matthews’ injury proves to be long-term, it could force a major adjustment in the Falcons’ offensive schemes.

Joshua Palmer’s Promising Night Ends With Ankle Injury

The Buffalo Bills also suffered a setback when wide receiver Joshua Palmer was ruled out with an ankle injury in the second quarter. Palmer, who had been showing flashes of breakout potential this season, went down awkwardly after a tackle, his leg twisting under him as he hit the turf.

He was evaluated in the team’s medical tent and later ruled out for the rest of the game. Palmer had already made an impact earlier in the night, including a 45-yard reception on the Bills’ opening drive, and was emerging as a key target for quarterback Josh Allen.

His departure leaves the Bills thin at receiver, potentially forcing them to lean more heavily on Stefon Diggs and rookie targets. Palmer’s status in the coming days will be crucial, as Buffalo’s offense relies on depth and versatility in the passing game to maintain its rhythm.

Terrel Bernard Adds to Bills’ Injury Woes

Buffalo’s night got even tougher when linebacker Terrel Bernard appeared to injure his ankle on the same play that sidelined Matthews. Bernard was officially listed as questionable to return but remained on the bench without his helmet, a strong indication he was unlikely to re-enter the game.

Bernard has been a key piece of the Bills’ defense this season, and his potential absence could weaken the unit in both pass coverage and run defense. Losing both Palmer and Bernard in the same game would be a major test of Buffalo’s depth and resilience.

What These Injuries Could Mean Going Forward

For Atlanta, Matthews’ injury is more than just a short-term problem — it could disrupt the offensive line’s chemistry and protection schemes moving forward. Without their veteran anchor, the Falcons may struggle to keep Penix Jr. upright and to establish a consistent running game.

Buffalo faces similar concerns. Palmer’s injury could limit their offensive explosiveness, especially if he misses multiple weeks. If Bernard is also sidelined, the Bills’ defense will have to compensate for the loss of one of its most dependable playmakers.

As both teams await further medical evaluations, fans and analysts alike are asking the same question: How serious are these ankle injuries, and how much could they reshape the Falcons’ and Bills’ seasons ahead?

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: How did Jake Matthews get injured?

Matthews was rolled up from behind during a play, injuring his ankle. He was ruled out for the rest of the game.

Q2: What happened to Joshua Palmer?

Palmer twisted his leg awkwardly after a tackle in the second quarter, suffering an ankle injury and exiting the game.

Q3: Did Terrel Bernard return to the game?

Bernard was listed as questionable but remained on the sideline without his helmet, suggesting he did not return.

Q4: How might these injuries affect the teams?

Atlanta could struggle without Matthews protecting the quarterback, while Buffalo’s offense may slow without Palmer and its defense weaken without Bernard.

Q5: What’s next for Matthews and Palmer?

Both players will undergo further evaluation to determine the severity of their injuries and possible recovery timelines.