As the Buffalo Bills prepare to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a pivotal playoff match at EverBank Stadium, injuries are raising concerns for the team. The Bills are set to confront a challenging opponent, as the Jaguars enter the game with a strong momentum, having secured eight consecutive victories to close out the 2025 season.
Bills Facing Key Injuries
The Bills are grappling with significant absences on their roster. Two key defenders will sit out the game, impacting the team’s defensive strategy. Rookie cornerback Max Hairston sustained an ankle injury during Buffalo’s Week 18 victory over the New York Jets. In his absence, veteran Dane Jackson will step in to provide defensive support.
Additionally, linebacker Terrel Bernard, who has faced injury setbacks throughout the season, will also miss the game due to a calf issue. These injuries could challenge the Bills’ depth and overall effectiveness against a formidable opponent.
Offensive Challenges for Buffalo
Buffalo will also be without their third-down back, Ty Johnson. Johnson was seen in a walking boot as he arrived at EverBank Stadium, dealing with an ankle injury. In his stead, Frank Gore Jr. is expected to fill the No. 3 running back role behind James Cook and Ray Davis.
Inactive List for the Bills
- CB Max Hairston
- LB Terrel Bernard
- RB Ty Johnson
- S Darnell Savage
- OL Tylan Grable
- TE Keleki Latu
- DT Larry Ogunjobi
Jaguars’ Roster Status
In contrast, the Jaguars come into the matchup in relatively good health. Nonetheless, they will be without offensive lineman Cole Van Lanen, who was ruled out due to a knee injury after a workout before the game. Walker Little is expected to shift from guard to tackle to fill the void left by Van Lanen.
Van Lanen’s absence is notable, as he boasted an impressive 92% pass block win rate since taking over as the Jaguars’ left tackle in Week 13. This adjustment could affect the Jaguars’ offensive line dynamics during the game.
Inactive List for the Jaguars
- OL Cole Van Lanen
- RB DeeJay Dallas
- WR Dyami Brown
- TE Hunter Long
- DL Emmanuel Ogbah
- DT Maason Smith
As both teams gear up for this crucial Wild Card Weekend playoff game, the outcome may hinge on how well the Bills adapt to their injuries and how effectively the Jaguars capitalize on their strengths.
