Saturday, January 17, 2026 • #BUFvsDEN
The Buffalo Bills have confirmed seven inactives for Saturday’s AFC Divisional Round game at Denver, a list that thins depth on defense and special teams in a high-stakes playoff spot. (For official updates, fans are tracking the team’s announcements via the Buffalo Bills official site and the league’s coverage on NFL.com.)
Buffalo Bills inactives list (7)
- LB Terrel Bernard
- S Jordan Poyer
- RB Ty Johnson
- CB Maxwell Hairston
- T Tylan Grable
- DT Phidarian Mathis
- TE Keleki Latu
Ty Johnson absence draws the loudest reaction
Online replies quickly centered on Ty Johnson, with fans expressing disappointment after his recent hamstring issue kept him out of a matchup where Buffalo’s backfield versatility can matter. Johnson’s ability to contribute in pass protection, operate as a check-down option, and stress defenses on third downs is the kind of marginal edge teams fight for in January football.
Defensive and special teams depth takes a hit
The absences of Terrel Bernard and Jordan Poyer remove experience from the middle of the defense, where communication and spacing are constantly tested by motion, play-action, and quick-game concepts. With rotations compressed in the postseason, the Bills will be looking for clean tackling, disciplined run fits, and mistake-free special teams snaps to avoid giving Denver short fields.
Positive boost: Ed Oliver returns
There’s also welcome news for Buffalo: defensive tackle Ed Oliver is back, providing both an emotional lift and a tactical upgrade to the interior front. His return strengthens the Bills’ ability to disrupt runs between the tackles and push the pocket from inside—often the quickest way to affect timing against any playoff offense.
For broader context on how injuries and matchups could shape this game, you can also read our preview here: Broncos vs Bills Divisional Round: Injuries, Matchups, and the Players Who Could Decide It .
Update note: Inactives are finalized on game day; monitor official channels for any late-breaking confirmations.
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