The Buffalo Bills are set to face the Houston Texans without several key players, including wide receiver Khalil Shakir, defensive tackles Ed Oliver and Austin Johnson, and safety Taylor Rapp. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed their absence on Friday, affecting the team's defensive line and receiving core significantly. Oliver's last-minute hamstring injury occurred during practice, while the others sustained their injuries during previous games.
With Taylor Rapp being ruled out, second-round pick Cole Bishop is set to make his first NFL start, which adds pressure to an already understrength defense. Bishop will be paired with Damar Hamlin, showcasing the Bills' reliance on inexperienced players to plug gaps on the roster. This situation highlights the depth challenges faced by the team, particularly on defense as they prepare for the Texans.
Linebacker Terrel Bernard and nickel corner Taron Johnson are labeled as questionable, which compounds the vulnerability of the Bills' defense against the Texans. Bernard suffered a pectoral injury in Week 2, while Johnson has been nursing a forearm injury since the first drive of Week 1. Their uncertain availability leaves the Bills with a potential gap in their defensive strategy this Sunday.
The injuries not only impact this week's gameplan but also throw a spotlight on the Bills' depth in crucial positions. Coach McDermott must equip his younger players, like Bishop, to step up immediately. The Bills will need to adapt quickly and showcase their resilience despite the growing injury list.
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