The Buffalo Bills made a series of roster adjustments ahead of their matchup with the Detroit Lions, including releasing a veteran offensive lineman.
On December 14, the Bills announced the release of lineman Will Clapp, who had made the active roster but remained a healthy scratch throughout the season. The move created space for two defensive players returning from injured reserve.
The Bills, preparing for Sunday’s game while dealing with significant injuries, have turned to the practice squad to address their depth needs.
Bills Clearing Roster Space
Will Clapp, 29, joined the Bills after a productive 2023 season with the Los Angeles Chargers, where he played in 14 games, started 11, and participated in 75% of the team’s offensive snaps. Over his seven-year NFL career, Clapp has appeared in 65 games with 21 starts.
Despite earning a spot on the 53-man roster after training camp, Clapp had yet to see game action this season. The Bills also released wide receiver Jalen Virgil, who had been promoted to the active roster from the practice squad amid injuries to the wide receiver group. Both Clapp and Virgil could potentially return to the practice squad.
These moves cleared room for defensive end Dawuane Smoot and linebacker Baylon Spector, who were activated from injured reserve.
Even with the returns, the Bills may face a defensive shortage on Sunday, particularly in the secondary. Starting cornerback Rasul Douglas has been ruled out, while safeties Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp are listed as questionable.
To bolster safety depth, the Bills elevated Kareem Jackson from the practice squad but opted not to call up veteran safety Micah Hyde. Hyde, who rejoined the team earlier this month, played seven seasons with the Bills and last appeared in their divisional-round loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Hyde, who considered retirement before deciding to return, expressed his willingness to take on any role the team needs.
“I just wanted to come back and do anything I could do to help,” Hyde said via ESPN. “If it’s helping young guys understand the NFL on and off the field, older guys helping them, with what they got to do on the field, whatever it may be, I’m here to help. I’m an open book, and so I’m excited for this role, and it’s a new role for me. And I’m ready to excel now.”
Bills Face Critical Test
Sunday’s game against the Lions represents a major challenge for the Bills, whose defense struggled in last week’s 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The Lions, with a league-leading offense and a 12-1 record, are tied for the best record in the NFL this season.
Although the Bills have already secured their fifth consecutive division title, they are still chasing the Kansas City Chiefs for the top spot in the AFC. They currently trail the Chiefs by two games.
