On the Bills’ injured reserve roster, DT DaQuan Jones gets activated.
“I’m excited, put a lot of work in to get to this point and I’m just happy that my body was able to heal as quickly as it did,” Jones said on Friday. “I’ve had no issues in practice and and I pushed it pretty well in everything I did. … I’m confidence in my ability to play at a high level.”
In addition, S Tre Norwood is being released from the practice squad and OL Germain Ifedi is being signed back by the Bills. Jones is currently listed on the 53-man roster and is anticipated to play in the Patriots game on Sunday.
Head coach Sean McDermott stated on Friday, “We didn’t know for sure whether he’d make it back or not. I commend him for working so diligently and then wanting to come back and play.”
Before the Bills play the New England Patriots in Week 17, Jones’s return strengthens Buffalo’s defensive line. Jones was injured in the team’s Week 5 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Before getting hurt in London, Jones started all five games and had accumulated 2.5 sacks and 10 total tackles.
Jones’ return will provide depth to a defensive front that has been among the finest in the league this season, since defensive lineman Jordan Phillips is undergoing surgery for a wrist injury sustained against Dallas. The Bills have the fourth-best pass rush victory percentage in the NFL at 50%. The Bills, who have the 20th-best win percentage in the NFL, will benefit from Jones’ effectiveness as a run stopper.
The Bills are taking their time getting back defensive tackle Jones into the lineup while he heals from a serious injury, according to McDermott.
“I think the biggest thing is managing expectations in terms of what he’s able to do,” said McDermott. “It seems like after a player returns frequently, everyone else just sort of goes, ‘Okay, we can relax.'” In his first game back after [10 games], we need to be mindful of our expectations regarding his playing time and capabilities.