As the Buffalo Bills head into their AFC Championship showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, there are some key injury updates to watch, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. Here’s a look at the latest from Buffalo’s injury report:
Injury Updates for Buffalo:
Christian Benford (CB) – Concussion
Status: Concussion protocol
Benford sustained a head injury during the Bills’ divisional round win over the Baltimore Ravens, on an onside kick late in the game. He did not take the field for the remainder of the game after that snap. Benford has developed symptoms post-game and is currently in the NFL’s concussion protocol. His availability for the AFC Championship game will depend on how he progresses through the protocol over the week.
Taylor Rapp (S) – Hip
Status: Day-to-day
Rapp was carted off the field in the second quarter against the Ravens after suffering a hip injury while tackling Lamar Jackson. He is listed as day-to-day, and head coach Sean McDermott will evaluate his progress throughout the week. Rookie Cole Bishop replaced Rapp after his injury against Baltimore. The Bills are not expected to elevate Micah Hyde from the practice squad for the Chiefs game, as McDermott confirmed there is no chance Hyde will suit up.
Brandon Codrington (RET/CB) – Hamstring
Status: Uncertain
Codrington missed the Bills’ playoff games due to a hamstring injury suffered in the final regular-season game. While he was healthy and a full practice participant leading up to the divisional round, he was a healthy scratch. McDermott indicated that his decision to leave Codrington inactive was based on personnel choices. It remains unclear if Codrington will be available for the AFC Championship, and a final decision will likely be made later in the week.
Other Injured Players:
Travis Clayton (OT) – Shoulder
On injured reserve, so will not play in the AFC Championship.
Shane Buechele (QB) – Neck
On injured reserve, so will not play in the AFC Championship.
Tommy Doyle (OT) – Knee
On injured reserve, so will not play in the AFC Championship.
Baylon Spector (LB)
On injured reserve, so will not play in the AFC Championship.
Kansas City Chiefs Injury Notes:
The Chiefs have 10 players on injured reserve or non-football injury lists, including Mecole Hardman, who has not been added to the active roster despite his practice window opening on January 1. Chiefs injury updates will be provided in the coming days, but they currently have more depth concerns compared to the Bills.
Conclusion:
For the Buffalo Bills, the most pressing injuries are to Christian Benford and Taylor Rapp. Their availability for the AFC Championship game will be key, especially in the secondary. The Kansas City Chiefs, while dealing with multiple injuries themselves, could be vulnerable in certain areas, making Buffalo’s health decisions particularly critical as they look to compete for the AFC title.
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