Back in March, Buffalo Bills star linebacker Matt Milano’s view for the 2025 season shifted.
In 2024, after yet another season marred by injuries, Milano, 31, consented to a contract restructuring. The last year of his contract in 2026 was essentially nullified when he accepted a $3 million wage cut.
The pads were popping on Day 5 of Buffalo Bills training camp, and no one made a bigger impression than veteran linebacker Matt Milano, who delivered one of the most physical plays of camp so far—electrifying fans and teammates alike.
Milano, who has been gradually ramping up his workload after last season’s leg injury, reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the NFL’s top linebackers. During 11-on-11 drills, he read a short pass to the flat perfectly and met the ball carrier with a thunderous hit that echoed across the practice field. The play fired up the defense and drew loud cheers from fans in attendance.
“He’s got that energy back,” said head coach Sean McDermott. “You can feel it. That’s the kind of tone-setter he’s always been for us.”
While Milano’s physicality was a welcome sight, the overall health of the roster took another hit. The Bills are already dealing with a concerning list of injuries, and that list got a bit longer on Monday.
Rookie cornerback Kiran Amegadjie was carted off midway through practice with what appeared to be a lower-body injury. Trainers were seen attending to his right leg before he was helped onto the cart. The team has yet to provide an official update, but the mood noticeably dipped after his exit.
Additionally, starting safety Micah Hyde remained sidelined with a lingering hamstring issue, while wide receiver Khalil Shakir missed his third straight practice due to a tight groin. Both are being monitored closely, but neither is expected to return until later in the week at the earliest.
These developments come as the Bills look to build on their 13-4 season and push deeper into the postseason. With high expectations and a tough AFC East battle looming, the team is trying to strike the right balance between intensity and caution during camp.
Still, Day 5 offered a reminder of what this team is capable of when it’s clicking—especially on defense. Milano’s hit wasn’t just a highlight—it was a message that Buffalo’s defense is determined to make its presence felt early this year.
“This is a physical game,” said defensive coordinator Bobby Babich. “We want to play fast and hit hard, but we’ve got to stay healthy. That’s the challenge.”
As the team prepares for its first preseason game, all eyes will be on the injury list—and whether standout performances like Milano’s can become a consistent theme heading into the regular season.