AFC East Notes: Bills, Dolphins, Jets
Let’s dive into what’s making headlines around the AFC East this week - from injury shakeups in Buffalo to a bold quarterback pivot in Miami. There’s no shortage of drama or decisions with real playoff implications.
Buffalo Bills: Injuries Force Key Adjustments
The Bills are heading into their upcoming matchup against the Browns short-handed in a couple of key spots. Head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that defensive tackle Jordan Phillips (right ankle) and kicker Matt Prater (quad) will both be sidelined this week.
Phillips’ absence is a tough blow to a defensive front that relies on his interior presence, especially when it comes to clogging running lanes and generating inside pressure. He’s been a consistent disruptor when healthy, and without him, the rotation will need to step up - expect more from players like Ed Oliver and Tim Settle to help fill that void.
As for Prater, the team will need to bring in a new kicker, and that’s no small thing. In December football, when every point counts and weather becomes a factor, having a reliable leg is critical. Prater’s experience and range have been assets all season, so whoever steps in will have big shoes - or cleats - to fill.
Miami Dolphins: A Quarterback Shake-Up and a Defensive Departure
Things are shifting fast in Miami. Head coach Mike McDaniel made waves this week by announcing that rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers, a seventh-round pick, will start over Tua Tagovailoa.
McDaniel didn’t mince words: “I think Quinn gives this team the best chance to win,” he said. “I’m looking for conviction in quarterback play. Understanding that he is a rookie, I felt that he would play the position the most convicted, which impacts every player on the field.”
It’s a bold move, no doubt. Benching a former top-five pick in favor of a late-round rookie isn’t just about scheme - it’s about leadership, energy, and trust.
McDaniel clearly sees something in Ewers’ approach that he believes can galvanize the offense. The decision might raise eyebrows, but it also signals a sense of urgency with the playoffs looming.
To his credit, Tagovailoa is handling the situation like a pro. “I’m here, and my role right now, if I’m not starting, is to help the starter help us win games,” he said. That kind of response shows maturity and team-first mentality - even if it’s clear he’s not thrilled with the decision.
Meanwhile, on the defensive side, the Dolphins made another eye-catching move by cutting veteran edge rusher Matt Judon. Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver addressed the move head-on, saying it was based on performance, not just to clear the runway for younger players like Cameron Goode and Quinton Bell.
Weaver added that Judon would’ve been a healthy scratch this week had he not been released - a pretty telling statement. Judon has been a force in past seasons, but if the coaching staff feels he’s no longer producing at that level, it’s a tough but calculated call. Miami appears to be leaning into youth and energy down the stretch.
Jets: (No new updates reported)
No major news out of New York at the moment, but in a division this competitive, that might be a good thing. Sometimes, stability is the best headline.
Bottom Line
Injuries in Buffalo, quarterback drama in Miami, and roster churn on defense - the AFC East is heating up in more ways than one. With the postseason picture coming into focus, every move matters.
Whether it’s a rookie QB getting his shot or a veteran being shown the door, these decisions are shaping the stretch run. Buckle up - December football is here, and it’s not waiting for anyone.