Defensive tackle, who had been dealing with an ankle injury, made a return to practice on Wednesday, as reported by Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 in Buffalo. While specifics on the extent of his participation weren’t disclosed, Ankou’s presence on the field is a promising sign after he missed roughly a week due to the injury.
Ankou, an undrafted player out of UCLA, has been working to secure a position on the Buffalo Bills’ 53-man roster after spending the previous season on the team’s practice squad. His return to practice suggests progress in his recovery, which could improve his chances of making the active roster for the season opener.
For a player in his situation, every practice opportunity is crucial, as he needs to showcase his abilities to coaches and staff amid strong competition within the Bills’ defensive lineup.
The 29-year-old Ankou has had a journeyman career in the NFL since going undrafted in 2017, spending time with multiple teams, including the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, and Dallas Cowboys, before joining the Bills. Known for his size and ability to clog up the interior, Ankou’s primary contributions have been as a run-stopper, a skillset that could add depth to Buffalo’s defensive front. However, staying healthy is key, as the Bills have several other players vying for similar roles.
Ankou’s availability over the next few practices will likely play a major role in determining his roster status. In a league where durability and reliability are highly valued, Ankou’s return to health will be closely watched by the coaching staff. If he can remain active and participate fully, it could significantly bolster his position in the final roster decisions.
The Bills’ defensive tackle rotation is competitive, and Ankou will need to continue proving his value on the field in order to earn a spot. His experience on the practice squad last season could work to his advantage, as he’s familiar with Buffalo’s system and the expectations within the team. For now, his ankle recovery is a positive development in his push to join the active roster, but with other talented defensive tackles in the mix, the coming practices will be critical for him.
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