BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo Bills defense is getting a boost. The Bills have activated linebacker Matt Milano from injured reserve, making Milano eligible to play in Sunday night’s game against the San Francisco 49ers (8:20 ET).

Milano, 30, has not played in a regular season game since October 8, 2023, when he suffered a season-ending leg injury in the team’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. The fullback was on track to return for the 2024 season but tore his biceps during a drill with a tackling dummy at training camp in August.

“It’s actually just the next step, right, so he hasn’t really had a Friday practice to that extent yet,” coach Sean McDermott said Friday about Milano’s possible availability. “So, we’ll see how he gets on today and go from there.”

Milano has played in just five games with Terrel Bernard, the team’s starting midfielder. The team did not have to make any roster changes as there was still one spot available on the 53-man roster.

Dorian Williams – a 2023 third-round pick – started and played well in Milano’s place as part of the team’s 9-2 start to the season. He leads the team in tackles (97) and is second in tackles for loss (five).

The 2022 first-team All-Pro participated fully in practice all week.

“It just feels good to be out there with the guys, man,” Milano said Wednesday. “Get back to competing and playing ball.”

The injury required surgery and the team placed him on injured reserve, but with the intention of returning. Milano’s 21-day training window opened on November 11th.

“Huge,” said nickel corner Taron Johnson as he brought the linebacker back. “The way Matt plays the game, the way he played the game is special. Having a man like that on the field will improve our defense tremendously. Whether he’s here this week or whenever, I’m just happy to have him back.

The Bills can clinch the AFC East with a win over the 49ers. The team did not activate rookie defensive tackle DeWayne Carter (wrist) and he was downgraded to out for the game against the 49ers. His 21-day training window remains open.

The Bills also signed quarterback Mike White and tight end Zach Davidson from the practice squad for the game. Tight end Dalton Kincaid (wrist) has already been ruled out, while wide receiver Keon Coleman (wrist) is questionable.