Johnson sat Week 2 with a calf issue but is on track to start vs Miami after Buffalo’s win at New York and a quick turnaround.

Cam Lewis started at nickel in Week 2, four tackles and a forced fumble; Johnson’s health remains the hinge for Bills’ base-defense plans and run-stopping ability.

Buffalo’s 13-2 mark vs Miami since Johnson was drafted underscores the value of his return, and the short week will test Week 3 roster decisions.

Buffalo’s Josh Allen escaped a nose injury in the 30-10 win over the Jets and is not listed on Buffalo’s Week 3 injury report ahead of Thursday night vs. Miami, a big relief for fantasy managers. The Monday update also places several Bills veterans on the slate: Matt Milano and Ed Oliver did not participate; Shaq Thompson and Cam Lewis were limited; Taron Johnson limited; Jordan Hancock full. The Bills will issue two more reports before kickoff, but Allen’s health looks stable for a key primetime affair.

Taron Johnson is inactive for Week 2, thinning Buffalo's nickel defense as they host the Jets. His quad issue surfaced after the Ravens game, and Cam Lewis steps in.

Ed Oliver also sits, leaving Buffalo's front with less punch. Lewis, a UB product and frequent postseason sub, has logged major defensive snaps and now must handle a bigger role in coverage and run support.

This matchup tests Buffalo's depth in a divisional clash; Johnson's absence puts added emphasis on Lewis and on how the Bills dial up schemes to minimize Jets' aerial attack.

Fantasy note: Lewis could be a speculative add if Johnson misses time; Oliver's absence also raises the stakes for Buffalo's interior pressure.

Buffalo eyes safety upgrades as Jabrill Peppers hits free agency, with five team fits named, including the Bills. Buffalo’s current safety depth features Cole Bishop, Damar Hamlin, and Taylor Rapp, plus internal youngsters Cam Lewis, Jordan Hancock, and Sam Franklin, with DeWayne Carter in the mix on the practice squad. Peppers’ eight-year resume—85 starts, 7 interceptions, 35 passes defended, 6 forced fumbles, 511 tackles, plus return ability—positions him to play a second-level role and add veteran versatility as Buffalo develops its youth movement.

Crabbs lists Washington, San Francisco, Baltimore, and Las Vegas as other interested destinations. If Peppers signs, Buffalo could leverage his pedigree to replicate some of Poyer’s 2023-second-level duties and free up Hamlin for more specialized or return work. The outcome hinges on fit, price, and how Buffalo values a flexible, veteran presence over continued youth infusion at safety.