In a major blow to the Buffalo Bills’ defense, head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that both defensive tackle Ed Oliver and linebacker Matt Milano will miss Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints.

Oliver, who has been dealing with an ankle injury, has not played since Week 1, while Milano has been sidelined since suffering a pectoral injury during the Week 2 matchup against the New York Jets. With both players unavailable for the third consecutive week, McDermott expressed his disappointment but remains hopeful for their swift recovery.

“It’s disappointing to see these key players unavailable,” McDermott said. “We’re all hoping for their quick recovery so we can get them back on the field as soon as possible.”

The absence of Oliver and Milano leaves a significant gap in the Bills’ defense. Both players are instrumental to Buffalo’s success, with Oliver anchoring the defensive line and Milano serving as a dynamic playmaker in the linebacking corps.

In addition to the two major injuries, McDermott also announced that right tackle Spencer Brown (calf) and defensive end AJ Epenesa (pectoral) are both listed as questionable for the game. Both players were expected to be limited participants in Friday’s practice, but their status for Sunday remains uncertain.

Despite the defensive setbacks, the Bills (3-0) have been rolling on offense, scoring more than 30 points in each of their first three games. On the other hand, the Saints (0-3) have struggled offensively, with just 47 points across their three losses.

While the defense will miss Oliver and Milano, the Bills’ high-powered offense, led by quarterback Josh Allen, will likely need to carry the team as they face a Saints squad looking for their first win of the season.

As the Bills prepare for this crucial game, fans and teammates alike are hoping for a swift return of their star defensive players to strengthen the team moving forward.