The Buffalo Bills have made strategic roster adjustments ahead of their AFC Championship showdown against the Kansas City Chiefs, elevating veteran safety Kareem Jackson and interior offensive lineman Will Clapp from the practice squad. This marks the second postseason elevation for both players. Jackson's promotion follows the confirmation that safety Taylor Rapp will miss the game, leaving the Bills with a thin safety depth. Jackson, who joined the Bills during training camp, has contributed during the regular season and provides essential experience in this critical matchup.

Clapp's elevation adds depth to an offensive line that often rotates multiple players. His previous postseason experience could be pivotal if any injuries occur. With Rapp and cornerback Christian Benford sidelined, the Bills have a healthy roster as they prepare for the high-stakes encounter at Arrowhead Stadium. The team's overall health could be a decisive factor as they aim for a return to the Super Bowl.

The Buffalo Bills face a significant challenge ahead of their AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs, as starting safety Taylor Rapp has been ruled out due to a hip injury sustained last week against Baltimore. Rapp did not participate in practice this week, which leaves the Bills with limited options at safety, turning to Cam Lewis and rookie Cole Bishop. The absence of Rapp compounds the uncertainty around cornerback Christian Benford, who remains in concussion protocol and is listed as questionable. Benford's situation is further complicated by personal matters that kept him from Friday's practice.

Buffalo coach Sean McDermott has indicated the possibility of promoting veteran Kareem Jackson from the practice squad to bolster the safety position, although he dismissed the option of activating Micah Hyde, the former starting safety who recently signed to the practice squad. Meanwhile, linebacker Matt Milano is not dealing with any injuries and is expected to contribute fully to the team's defensive efforts against a formidable Chiefs offense.

The Buffalo Bills have bolstered their roster ahead of the January 12 wild-card game against the Denver Broncos by elevating veteran safety Kareem Jackson and wide receiver Jalen Virgil from the practice squad.

This move safeguards the team's depth, especially given that rookie defensive back Brandon Codrington is questionable for the game due to a hamstring injury. Codrington plays a dual role as a return specialist and a reserve defensive back, making Jackson's experience crucial for the Bills' secondary. Meanwhile, Virgil's involvement could provide added support in the return game.

Kareem Jackson, a first-round pick in 2010, has had a lengthy career with 205 NFL games and nine playoff appearances to his name. Jalen Virgil, known for his kick return capabilities during his college years, spent 2023 on Injured Reserve but brings depth as he aims to make an impact with Buffalo after being waived by the Broncos.

As the Bills head into the playoff matchup, the team is relatively healthy, with Codrington being the only player listed with an injury. The game is set to kick off at 1 p.m. ET in Orchard Park, with CBS broadcasting the action.

The Buffalo Bills are prioritizing player health over a victory against the New England Patriots this week, as they navigate a challenging roster situation. With a limit of two practice squad elevations each week, the team is unable to rest all starters, especially with three players—Tyrell Shavers, Jalen Virgil, and Zach Davidson—already maxed out on elevations. QB Mike White has been signed to the active roster, allowing the team to avoid using one of their precious elevation slots on him.

While safety Micah Hyde is ruled out for elevation, he will be present in a coaching role. The Bills may consider elevating either Lewis Cine or Kareem Jackson to bolster the safety position, particularly since Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin are recovering from injuries. Additionally, WR K.J. Hamler is a strong candidate for elevation to balance the risk of injuries among starters.

Other considerations include elevating Frank Gore Jr. to handle running back duties, which could help preserve the health of James Cook, Ty Johnson, and Ray Davis. The offensive line also needs attention, leading to the possibility of elevating OL Will Clapp or DE Kingsley Jonathan for defensive support. The Bills have until 4 PM EST on Saturday to finalize their two player elevations ahead of the regular season finale.

The Denver Broncos have honored safety P.J. Locke with the Ed Block Courage Award for 2023, recognizing his exceptional courage and dedication shown during his recovery from injuries. Chosen by his teammates, Locke's commitment to rehabilitation after suffering a left great toe dislocation and a throat contusion exemplifies the award's principles of sportsmanship and character.

Locke's journey with the Broncos began as a college free agent from the University of Texas in 2019. He has played in 73 games, including 22 starts, showcasing his growth and resilience on the field. This season, he has been a key player, starting in all but one game and contributing significantly to the team's defense.