Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott has confirmed a challenging scenario for the team ahead of its Wild Card matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars this Sunday.
During a press conference that set off alarms across Buffalo, McDermott officially ruled out several key defensive pieces, adding pressure to an already difficult contest at EverBank Stadium.
Confirmed absences on defense
The most significant blow to the defensive unit is the confirmed absence of linebacker Terrel Bernard (calf) and cornerback Maxwell Hairston (ankle). Both players were unable to practice throughout the week and have been ruled out of the game.
Sean McDermott soaking in the final seconds of Highmark Stadium.
Takes his hat off to #BillsMafia as he walks off the field one last time.@BuffaloPluspic.twitter.com/vVt4NREoSl
? Dan Fetes (@danfetes) January 5, 2026
Also on the list is safety Damar Hamlin. Although his return window from injured reserve opened this week, McDermott clarified that he is still “not ready” for competitive action, leaving him off the active roster for this crucial matchup.
Offensive concerns and a glimmer of hope
On the offensive side of the ball, the situation surrounding wide receiver Joshua Palmer is concerning. Palmer did not practice all week due to an ankle injury and is officially listed as “questionable,” potentially limiting Josh Allen’s passing options.
“If [Josh Allen] loses this game, its on him.”@Realrclark25 sets the stakes for the Bills quarterback heading into the AFC Wild Card Game pic.twitter.com/n4phJfqcpG
? NFL on ESPN (@ESPNNFL) January 9, 2026
However, it is not all bad news for Buffalo. Additional reports point to a vital boost for the Bills: tight end Dalton Kincaid, who has been dealing with a knee injury, is expected to be available without restrictions on Sunday, providing an essential safety valve for his quarterback. Furthermore, veteran kicker Matt Prater (quadriceps) returned to full practice on Thursday and, despite resting on Friday, the trend suggests he will be ready to play.
Josh Allen’s challenge and the road factor
Josh Allen, who has been openly self-critical this week after reviewing his recent performances, is also listed on the injury report with a foot issue, though he has practiced in full. Allen will lead a team looking to snap a troubling historical trend: under McDermott, the Bills are 0-5 in playoff games played on the road.
With 16 players appearing on the injury report and facing a Jaguars team riding a winning streak, Buffalo will need to rely heavily on roster depth and mental toughness to survive the opening round of the postseason.
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