Buffalo, N.Y. – The Buffalo Bills entered Thursday night’s matchup against the Detroit Lions without defensive tackle Ed Oliver, who suffered a hip injury during pre‑game warm‑ups. Oliver, 28, was a surprise inactive after contributing five tackles, a tackle for loss and a quarterback hit in the Bills’ 36‑31 season‑opening win over the Houston Texans.
Oliver’s career and recent health history
Since being selected ninth overall in the 2019 NFL Draft out of the University of Houston, Oliver has compiled 248 tackles, 30 sacks, one interception, nine forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and 77 quarterback hits in 96 regular‑season games, 87 of which he started. In the postseason he added 30 tackles, two sacks and 10 quarterback hits across 14 playoff contests.
His availability has been limited at times. Last season Oliver appeared in only three games because of an ankle injury and a torn left biceps. The current hip issue adds another setback for a player the Bills have counted on to anchor the interior defensive line.
Bill’s depth and other inactive players
Alongside Oliver, the Bills listed wide receiver Skyler Bell, running back Ty Johnson (hamstring), safety Jalon Kilgore, guard Armaj Reed‑Adams, offensive lineman Jude Bowry and defensive lineman T.J. Sanders (illness and knee issue) as inactive. Safety Cole Bishop, who was previously listed as questionable with a knee/groin concern, was cleared to play. Practice‑squad elevations included running back Frank Gore Jr. and wide receiver Greg Dortch.
Detroit Lions roster updates
The Lions also dealt with injuries. Starting right tackle Blake Miller (knee) and left guard Christian Mahogany (hip) were ruled out after missing practice. Cornerback D.J. Reed, limited by a foot injury, remained listed as questionable but was expected to start. Defensive back Christian Izien, who missed the season opener with a groin injury, was active, while cornerbacks Keith Abney II and Ennis Rakestraw Jr., linebacker Jimmy Rolder, defensive lineman Mekhi Wingo and edge rusher Ahmed Hassanein were inactive.
Offensive tackle Devin Cochran and center Seth McLaughlin were promoted from the practice squad for the game. Defensive lineman Levi Onwuzurike was signed to the active roster from the practice squad and was also active.
What the injury means for Buffalo
Oliver’s absence forces head coach Sean McDermott to lean on younger linemen and recent acquisitions to fill the void. The Bills have emphasized depth and rotational flexibility on the defensive front, a strategy that has helped them stay competitive despite injuries throughout the season.
Fans in Western New York will be watching closely to see how the defensive line adapts, especially as the Bills aim to improve on their early‑season performance and contend for a playoff spot.
Looking ahead
The Bills will reassess Oliver’s hip after the game and determine a timeline for his return. In the meantime, the team’s focus remains on executing its defensive scheme and maintaining the momentum built in the opening victory.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
