With the first edition of Allen-Darnold approaching, the Buffalo Bills might play without a couple offensive playmakers in their rematch with the New York Jets. Tight end Jason Croom (groin) was unable to practice every day leading up to the weekend, making his deactivation almost certain. Wide receiver Isaiah McKenzie (toe), who was injured during practice earlier this week, will practice in a limited fashion on Friday, but will likely be a gametime decision.
That leaves the Bills with two healthy tight ends (though starter Charles Clay is coming off a hamstring pull) and four healthy receivers, after cutting veterans Kelvin Benjamin and Andre Holmes. The team does have a roster opening, though it might be difficult to expect much production if they promote a player like rookie Cam Phillips from their practice squad to pick up the slack.
Cornerback Taron Johnson (shoulder) underwent surgery on Monday, and has already been ruled out of this week’s game. In all honesty, he would be a candidate for injured reserve if the Bills had more roster turmoil. As it stands, the team can deactivate him week-by-week without sacrificing roster depth, in the hopes of bringing him back to action for more practice at the end of the month.
Quarterback Derek Anderson (concussion) graduated to limited practice participation this week, so he should emerge from the injury report before long. It remains to be seen if he’ll return as the primary backup, or if the Bills will continue to roll with Matt Barkley in that spot.