Patriots’ Williams, Davis III Confirmed Active for Sunday Game Against Bills
Defensive tackle Milton Williams and cornerback Carlton Davis III are confirmed active for the New England Patriots’ upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills. Williams was previously listed as questionable due to an ankle injury, while Davis battled an illness this week.
Patriots Player Updates
- Milton Williams: Active, managing a minor ankle injury.
- Carlton Davis III: Active after recovering from illness.
- Out for the game:
- K’Lavon Chaisson (OLB, knee)
- Eric Gregory (DT)
- Caedan Wallace (G)
- Efton Chism III (WR)
Impact on the Game
The presence of Williams is crucial for New England’s defense. He recorded two sacks and holds a 19.2% pass-rush win rate. Alongside Christian Barmore, he has contributed significantly to a defense ranked in the top ten for both pass-rush and run-stop performance.
Davis’ return allows the Patriots to field their top cornerback tandem with Christian Gonzalez, enhancing their pass defense. In their last game, they allowed only 5.0 yards per pass attempt when both were on the field, a stark improvement from the 9.0 yards per attempt allowed in earlier weeks.
Buffalo Bills Inactive Players
The Bills will also be missing several key players, including:
- Ed Oliver (DT, ankle)
- T.J. Sanders (DT, knee)
- Elijah Moore (WR)
- Brandon Codrington (CB)
- Jordan Hancock (FS)
- Dorian Williams (OLB)
- Chase Lundt (OT)
Strategies and Matchups
With Chaisson ruled out, the Patriots might adjust their lineup to fill the gap. Defensive end Keion White could take on a larger role, along with Khyiris Tonga and rookie Joshua Farmer, both contributing to the run defense.
Buffalo’s ground game, led by quarterback Josh Allen and running back James Cook, will challenge New England’s defense. The Patriots may opt to utilize Anfernee Jennings as a primary edge-setter, combining his strengths with White’s pass-rush capabilities.
Additionally, linebacker Jahlani Tavai has been activated and could play a versatile role on defense. His return adds depth, particularly in the absence of Chaisson.
Offensive Outlook for the Patriots
The Patriots offense, led by quarterback Drake Maye, is also in good shape. They face a formidable Bills defense as they look to improve their scoring efficiency.
Rookie Jared Wilson will start at left guard, marking a return from injury. Although there were discussions about sticking with veteran Ben Brown, the Patriots have decided to prioritize Wilson’s development.
Wide receiver Efton Chism III remains a healthy scratch, making it five consecutive games without game-day activation. The Patriots are expected to rely on experienced players such as Stefon Diggs and DeMario Douglas, who have proven capable in critical moments.
Game Day Preview
The Patriots will visit the Bills at Highmark Stadium on Sunday night, with kickoff scheduled for 8:20 p.m. ET. New England enters the matchup as 7.5-point underdogs. Despite this, the team is embracing its underdog status and aims to put forth a competitive effort against a Bills squad that has won its first four games of the season.
