Bills rule out LB Terrel Bernard, two others vs. Jaguars

Field Level Media|published: Fri 9th January, 12:47 2026

Nov 20, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Buffalo Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard (8) and linebacker Matt Milano (58) attempt to tackle Houston Texans running back Nick Chubb (21) during the game at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Buffalo Bills starting linebacker Terrel Bernard, cornerback Maxwell Hairston and safety Damar Hamlin have been ruled out for Sunday's AFC wild-card game against the host Jacksonville Jaguars.

Bills head coach Sean McDermott announced the news on WGR-AM on Friday morning that Bernard (calf), Hairston (ankle) and Hamlin (pectoral) will sit out. Bernard and Hairston did not participate in practice on either Wednesday or Thursday, while Hamlin was limited both days after his window to return from injured reserve opened this week.

McDermott also noted that kicker Matt Prater (right quad) and wide receiver Josh Palmer (ankle) would not practice on Friday.

"Thought he did some good things (Thursday in practice)," McDermott said of Prater. "We'll see where and how he trends heading into the weekend."

McDermott said Palmer and linebacker Shaq Thompson (neck) will be listed as questionable for the Bills (12-5) against the Jaguars (13-4).

--Field Level Media

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