The Buffalo Bills are getting reinforcements at just the right time.
Ahead of Saturday’s high-stakes divisional-round clash with the Denver Broncos, Buffalo has activated defensive lineman Ed Oliver and wide receiver Curtis Samuel off injured reserve. Both are officially listed as questionable, but signs point to them being ready to go when the lights come on.
Let’s start with Oliver. The big man in the middle hasn’t suited up since late October after suffering a torn bicep, but he’s been trending in the right direction all week. His 21-day practice window opened recently, and he’s been a limited participant in every session-a strong indicator that the Bills are confident in his recovery.
Getting Oliver back is a big deal for this defense. At 28, he’s in his prime and playing some of the best football of his career.
Before going down, he had already racked up seven tackles for loss, three sacks, and a forced fumble. But it’s the pressure numbers that really jump off the page-he logged 39 pressures this season, second on the team behind only Greg Rousseau, per Next Gen Stats.
That kind of disruption up front can change games, especially in the playoffs when every snap matters.
Now to the offense, where Curtis Samuel’s return could be just as impactful-albeit in a different way. Samuel has been sidelined since Week 11 with an elbow injury, and while he may not be the headline name in Buffalo’s receiving corps, his versatility and experience are invaluable.
With Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers both lost to season-ending knee injuries, the Bills’ depth at wide receiver has taken a hit. Samuel’s ability to line up inside, outside, or even take the occasional handoff makes him a Swiss Army knife for this offense.
At 29, Samuel brings veteran savvy and a dynamic skill set that could give Josh Allen another reliable option, especially in the short-to-intermediate game. And in a playoff environment where every possession is magnified, having a player who can stretch the field or create yards after the catch is a major asset.
Bottom line: The Bills are getting healthier at the right time. Ed Oliver’s return bolsters a defense that thrives on pressure, while Curtis Samuel gives the offense a much-needed boost in flexibility and depth. If both are active-and all signs suggest they will be-Buffalo will be a more complete team when they take the field against Denver.