Bills activate Matt Milano (biceps) from injured reserve; LB returns against the 49ers

Milano tore his biceps during training camp, a brutal blow considering the seven-year veteran was looking to return from knee and leg injuries that ended his 2023 season in Week 5.

A midseason return wasn’t certain after the initial diagnosis of his torn biceps, but Milano is ready to rejoin the Bills in the home stretch of the 2024 season. Right from the start, Milano will look to help the club win its fifth straight AFC East title with a win over the 49ers.

Milano’s return should bolster a Bills defense that played solidly during his absence in 2024. Thanks in part to a Josh Allen-led offense that minimizes turnovers, the Bills have the best turnover differential in the league with 21 takeaways by the defense (+14). . The unit has also held opponents to 19.5 points per game, which ranks seventh in the NFL.

In Milano’s final full season in 2022, he earned his first All-Pro honor after recording 99 tackles, 1.5 sacks, three interceptions (one pick-six), 11 pass break-ups and two fumble recoveries.

With a snowy atmosphere expected for Sunday night’s prime time at Highmark Stadium, the stage is set for an unforgettable evening against one of the NFC’s perennial contenders. Milano’s return only increases the excitement for Buffalo.

The Bills (9-2) and 49ers (5-6) are scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET.