Ahead of their Week 5 AFC matchup against the Houston Texans, the Buffalo Bills have already ruled out two key players. Head coach Sean McDermott announced that wide receiver Khalil Shakir and defensive tackle Ed Oliver will both miss the game. The news was shared by ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter.
Despite their strong performance this season, the Bills are aiming to bounce back after a tough loss to the Baltimore Ravens last week. While the absence of Shakir and Oliver impacts their lineup, the team remains confident, with star quarterback Josh Allen leading the charge and giving them a solid chance to win.
Shakir has recorded 18 catches for 230 yards and two touchdowns this season, providing the Bills with a dynamic option for Josh Allen. The former fifth-round pick made an impact last season, hauling in 39 receptions for 611 yards and two touchdowns. In Shakir’s absence, other targets like Keon Coleman, Mack Hollins, Curtis Samuel, and Dalton Kincaid will need to step up. Coleman, in particular, is expected to take on the No. 1 receiver role. The rookie wideout has shown promise early in his NFL career, catching eight passes for 126 yards and a touchdown. This game presents an opportunity for him to shine and justify Buffalo’s decision to select him in the second round.
On defense, the absence of Ed Oliver will be felt. Drafted in the first round in 2019, Oliver has been a reliable presence on the defensive line, though he hasn’t quite lived up to the lofty expectations. Last season, he posted 51 total tackles and 9.5 sacks, along with his first career interception. Without Oliver, the Texans might lean on the run game, aiming to exploit Buffalo’s potentially weaker run defense. Despite the injuries, the Bills will be looking to rise to the challenge against the Texans, confident in their roster depth.
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