In Week 15, the Buffalo Bills (8-6) dominated the Dallas Cowboys (10-4) at Highmark Stadium.
Before breaking his wrist, Bills defensive tackle Jordan Phillips got one pass defensed, one sack, one quarterback hit, and one tackle for a loss in the 31-10 thrashing. The veteran departed the game in the second half and did not return.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, December 18, Bills head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Phillips underwent surgery immediately following the game. “We’ll know more as we continue here over the next couple of days,” McDermott said of Phillips, who is being considered on a week-to-week basis.
This was the play that #Bills Jordan Phillips injured his right wrist on.
You can see his wrist slams heel first into Steele’s buttocks.
Certainly going through differential diagnosis for immediate surgery last night.
Something fractured, dislocated, displaced is first guess. pic.twitter.com/ybkXoPeIZa
— Banged Up Bills (@BangedUpBills) December 18, 2023
While immediate surgery following a game seems concerning, Phillips appears unconcerned. On Monday, the veteran lineman taunted the Cowboys after signing a one-year, $3 million contract with the Bills this offseason. He posted a video of himself sacking Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and captioned it, “Living life on the edge like I’m 237 #bigboy.”
Bills punter Sam Martin said, “Him.” A supporter sent in the following message: “Bro really killed the Cowboys then got surgery, wishing a speedy recovery.”
According to WIVB, the 31-year-old had rotator cuff surgery during the offseason and spent part of training camp on the physically unable to perform list. Phillips has since played in all 14 games this season, taking over as the starter after DaQuan Jones was injured.
Jordan Phillips has 15 total tackles, 5 quarterback hits, and 2.5 sacks this season. While Phillips will not play in Week 16 against the Los Angeles Chargers, the Bills still have four healthy defensive tackles on their roster: Ed Oliver, Linval Joseph, Tim Settle, and Poona Ford.
The Bills May Look to Poona Ford to Start, But May Sign Another DT With Jordan Phillips Out
It seems there are a few dynamics at play here regarding the Buffalo Bills and their defensive tackle, Harrison Phillips, opening up an opportunity for Harrison Phillips to potentially start. Despite this, there appears to be a consideration from the team’s management, particularly General Manager Brandon Beane, to explore adding another defensive tackle to the roster in the near future.
This situation might not bode well for Tyeler Davison Ford, who has faced challenges during his time with the Bills. Ford, despite signing a one-year contract worth $2.25 million, has struggled to make a significant impact, being inactive for a notable nine games this season.
In expressing his discontent earlier in an interview with The Buffalo News, Ford revealed his frustration with his limited involvement, stating it was not what he expected when joining the team. Despite his belief in his abilities and understanding of the team’s playbook, Ford has only participated in five games, recording minimal stats – seven tackles and one quarterback hit.
His feelings about the situation seem complex and multifaceted, as indicated by his comments alluding to a range of emotions without delving into specifics. Ford seems perplexed about his lack of playing time, feeling he is prepared and knowledgeable about the team’s strategies.
On the contrary, Bills defensive line coach Eric Washington exuded confidence in Ford’s capabilities, expressing certainty that Ford would be ready to step up for the upcoming game against the Chargers.
The situation appears to have layers of uncertainty and frustration for Ford, who is seeking answers and support from his family while hoping for a resolution. Despite his personal beliefs about his readiness, it remains to be seen whether the coaching staff aligns with this perspective and grants him a more substantial role moving forward.
The Bills’ defense deserves a standing ovation for shutting down Prescott and company. Given that Buffalo was without Jones, Matt Milano, Micah Hyde, AJ Epenesa, and Tre’Davious White, limiting one of the league’s leading MVP candidates to 134 yards and zero touchdowns was astounding.
The Cowboys were top in the league in points per game (40.2) and second in yards per game (437.4) entering Week 15. Prescott had not thrown an interception in four games until being intercepted by Bills cornerback Christian Benford.
While losing another defensive starter is difficult, Buffalo should be fine without Phillips in Week 16. The Bills are 13.5-point favorites to defeat the Rams in Week 16.
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