The Buffalo Bills will be facing the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday without two key defenders, as starting safety Micah Hyde and pass rusher A.J. Epenesa have been ruled out. Hyde suffered a neck stinger, and Epenesa sustained a rib injury during the Bills’ recent win over the Kansas City Chiefs.
Bills coach Sean McDermott provided an update on Friday, stating that both players are still undergoing evaluation, and there is a possibility that they may end up on injured reserve. McDermott mentioned that Hyde is currently the more likely candidate for this scenario, but the team is actively assessing the situation, taking it day by day.
With Epenesa sidelined, the Bills may rely on Von Miller to take on more snaps. Miller, a 34-year-old veteran, returned from a torn ACL on Thanksgiving last year and has played in nine games this season. However, he has not exceeded 27 snaps in a game, while Epenesa has been averaging around 41 snaps per game in his recent outings.
McDermott acknowledged Miller’s improved performance in the last game against the Chiefs, where he applied pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes and contributed to crucial stops late in the game. Miller’s impact forced the Chiefs to settle for a field goal instead of a potential touchdown, showcasing his value to the Bills’ defense.
In Hyde’s absence, the Bills are likely to turn to veteran safety Taylor Rapp, who has started two games for the team this season. The Bills’ defensive strategy has involved the use of the dime defensive package more frequently in 2023, featuring an extra defensive back to enhance pass defense. Cam Lewis, who received 11 snaps last week after Hyde left the game, performed well and was the highest-graded safety (63.1) for the Bills, according to Pro Football Focus.
Damar Hamlin could also see increased involvement as the team’s fourth safety, primarily contributing on special teams. McDermott provided updates on cornerback Taron Johnson (ankle) and tight end Dalton Kincaid (shoulder/thumb), mentioning that both players have been limited in practice and will be monitored for progress. The availability of these players will be crucial for the Bills as they prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.
