BREAKING: Bills Respond to Matt Milano’s Return With Four-Word Roar
The Buffalo Bills have met linebacker Matt Milano’s return to the field with a resounding show of support, issuing a four-word message that encapsulates the team’s excitement: “He’s Back. Let’s Go!
The announcement marks the end of a long road back for Milano, who was activated off injured reserve after recovering from a torn biceps. Milano’s return came Week 13 against the San Francisco 49ers, marking his first game in over a year, after his 2023 season was cut short due to knee and leg injuries.
The Bills opened the 21-day practice window for Milano on November. After a full week of practice, Milano was ready to rejoin the Bills1. To describe his return to the field after 13 months, Milano said, “Felt really good”.
The return of the 2022 First-Team All-Pro is a positive sign for the Bills as they pursue another AFC East title and make a push in the playoffs. Even in Milano’s absence, the Bills’ defense has played well, ranking seventh in the NFL by holding opponents to 19.5 points per game. The Bills also lead the league in turnover differential (+14).
In Milano’s last full season in 2022, he earned his first All-Pro honor after tallying 99 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions, 11 pass breakups, and two fumble recoveries.
While Milano was out, fifth-round pick Dorian Williams started the first 11 games of the season, and played well, leading the team in tackles (97) and second in tackles for loss (five). With Milano back in action, Williams’ defensive snaps are expected to diminish, but he is expected to shift back to being a special teams player.
The team has also felt Milano’s presence even while injured. Milano traveled to away games and contributed from the sideline. Taron Johnson said, “[Milano’s] like being a coach out there. So, it’s just huge to have a guy like that”.
Upon Milano’s return against the 49ers, the packed, snow-covered stands erupted in loud cheers. “To hear the crowd go crazy when Matt was announced, I think just again, I don’t want to speak for the fans, but I think they appreciate how tough he’s had to be over the course of the last two years,” coach Sean McDermott said.
