Bills get much-needed boost as several injured contributors move closer to returning before a crucial stretch

Some good news coming out of One Bills Drive.

Adam Zientek NFL News Writer
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Nov 9, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) throws during the second half against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium.
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It’s no surprise that the Buffalo Bills are battling through injuries; just take a look at the Wednesday injury report. Eight players were limited and two did not practice, which had fans rightfully concerned for the upcoming Week 11 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

However, things seem to have turned in Buffalo’s favor on Thursday, with six players returning as full participants. Linebackers Shaq Thompson, Terrel Bernard, and Dorian Williams, cornerbacks Taron Johnson and Christian Benford, and defensive end Joey Bosa were all able to practice in full.

While wide receiver Khalil Shakir was able to practice, he was in a red non-contact jersey. Tight end Dalton Kincaid is considered week-to-week with a hamstring injury, and was unable to practice along with defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis, who is dealing with a shoulder injury.

Defensive back Cam Lewis was the only other player to be limited alongside Shakir, on Thursday.

Buffalo Bills Thursday injury report

Player Injury W/T/F Designation
CB Christian BenfordGroinLimited/Full
LB Terrel BernardAnkleLimited/Full
DE Joey BosaWristLimited/Full
DE A.J. EpenesaConcussionFull/Full
CB Taron JohnsonGroinLimited/Full
TE Dalton KincaidHamstringDNP/DNP
DB Cam LewisCalfLimited/Limited
DT Phidarian MathisShoulderDNP/DNP
WR Joshua PalmerKnee/AnkleFull/Full
DT Jordan PhillipsWristFull/Full
DT T.J. Sanders (IR)KneeFull/Full
WR Khalil ShakirAnkle/RibsLimited/Limited
LB Shaq ThompsonHamstringLimited/Full
LB Dorian WilliamsGroinLimited/Full

Observations

Outside of the players suiting up in full after being limited the day before, there was some more good news hidden in the details. First, rookie defensive tackle T.J. Sanders is trending in the right direction, and that specific unit could use another body.

Next, defensive end A.J. Epenesa was able to be a full participant after missing the contest against Miami, and he’s had quite the season. Getting him back on the defensive front will go a long way for the team’s chances.

And finally, Allen has to be thrilled that for the second consecutive practice, wide receiver Josh Palmer was a full participant. He was one of the biggest offseason acquisitions and was hurt in the loss against the Atlanta Falcons on a hip-drop tackle that wasn’t called. With Kincaid out, Allen can use all the help he can get.

All eyes now turn to Friday’s final injury report, which should offer the clearest picture yet of who’s actually available for a critical Week 11 matchup.