After Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane caused some concern among fans with a vague update on injured linebacker Matt Milano, head coach Sean McDermott has provided more detailed information about Milano’s expected return.
Milano, who fractured his leg in October and missed the rest of the season, was the subject of a cryptic update from Beane during the team’s voluntary workout in April. Beane’s statement that Milano was “still working through his deal” without further specifics left fans with unanswered questions about his recovery.
However, McDermott offered a clearer picture during the team’s OTAs on May 21. He mentioned that Milano is progressing well in his rehabilitation and is on track. While McDermott did not specify a precise return date, he suggested that Milano might be back later in the summer, potentially around the start of training camp.
“Our training staff says he’s on schedule,” McDermott noted via the team’s official website. “Matt’s here every day working hard. It’s likely we’ll see him closer to training camp, with some drill work beforehand, depending on his progress.”
There has been some scrutiny over the lack of detailed updates about Milano’s injury. Jay Skurski of the Buffalo News pointed out in November that the extent of Milano’s injury, beyond the leg fracture, was unclear. Skurski speculated that if Milano had suffered ligament damage, his recovery time would be significantly longer.
Before his injury, Milano was having a standout season, recording 30 total tackles and two interceptions. He signed a $44 million contract extension in 2021 and added two more years in 2023.
To prepare for any potential delays in Milano’s return, the Bills signed linebacker Deion Jones to a one-year contract. Jones had a productive season with the Carolina Panthers in 2023, recording 35 total tackles, six passes defended, one sack, and one interception. Additionally, the Bills bolstered their linebacking corps by drafting Edefuan Ulofoshio in the fifth round.
