Buffalo activated DT Ed Oliver and WR Curtis Samuel ahead of the divisional round, boosting pass rush and receiving depth. Punters might lean toward the Bills to cover a modest spread if Oliver plays and pressures the QB, but monitor secondary injuries—absences could push bettors toward a higher game total or fade the Bills moneyline until final inactives.
Bills get late boosts as Ed Oliver, Curtis Samuel return for divisional round
The Buffalo Bills activated defensive tackle Ed Oliver and wide receiver Curtis Samuel from injured reserve Friday, providing key reinforcements ahead of Saturday’s divisional-round meeting with the Denver Broncos. Both players had practice windows opened earlier in the week and are now eligible to play.
Depth moves: elevations and IR updates
Mecole Hardman Jr. and running back Frank Gore Jr. were elevated from the practice squad. Two roster spots remained open after receivers Tyrell Shavers and Gabe Davis were placed on injured reserve following ACL tears suffered in last weekend’s win over Jacksonville. With the recent activations, the Bills list five receivers for the game: Samuel, Hardman, Khalil Shakir, Brandin Cooks and Keon Coleman.
Ed Oliver’s return and defensive outlook
Oliver’s return bolsters a defensive-tackle room that faced significant injuries this season. The seven-year veteran initially went on IR Oct. 28 with a left biceps tear that required surgery and later had a minimally invasive meniscus procedure Dec. 29 while rehabbing. In three games this season Oliver recorded three sacks and a forced fumble. “It’s just a long time coming,” Oliver said of his return. Head coach Sean McDermott praised his work ethic and the medical staff’s role in the comeback, noting Oliver “loves to play.”
Receiver availability and offensive balance
Samuel (elbow) is poised to return to the field for the first time since Nov. 16, giving quarterback depth in the passing game. Hardman’s elevation further restores options after recent wideout injuries, helping preserve matchup flexibility for the Bills’ offense.
Injury report and game status
Cornerback Maxwell Hairston (ankle) and safety Jordan Poyer (hamstring) have been ruled out for the game. Linebacker Terrel Bernard (calf) is listed as questionable. Running back Ty Johnson, who missed last week’s game, is also questionable with an ankle issue. Monitor final activations and inactives before lock.
Betting implications and what punters should watch
Ed Oliver’s presence can improve Buffalo’s pass rush and run defense, which could nudge bettors toward the Bills covering a modest spread or taking the moneyline if he’s active and effective. Conversely, the absence of Poyer and Hairston weakens the secondary and could open the door for more passing production, making the game total more attractive to those expecting higher scoring. Final injury designations and the inactive list should guide last-minute bets—watch snap counts and early-game activity for Oliver and Samuel.
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The Buffalo Bills have activated defensive tackle Ed Oliver and wide receiver Curtis Samuel from injured reserve.
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