Buffalo Bills Added Austin Johnson to Practice Squad
The veteran defensive tackle returned to the team to provide depth following a teammate's medical absence.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Football
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The Buffalo Bills have signed 11-year NFL veteran Austin Johnson to their practice squad. This move follows an appendectomy performed on teammate T.J. Sanders on September 22, 2026.
Why it matters
The Bills added Johnson to maintain defensive tackle depth while Sanders remains sidelined. The team currently holds a 2-0 record after defeating the Detroit Lions 41-31 last week.
Austin Johnson is an 11-year veteran who recorded 19 tackles, 0.5 sacks, and 2 interceptions for the Bills during the 2024 season. The team is currently 2-0 and enters their next game as 7-point favorites.
The players
Austin Johnson
An 11-year NFL veteran who plays defensive tackle and was originally selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
T.J. Sanders
A Buffalo Bills player who is currently unavailable for practice following a surgical procedure.
Buffalo Bills
A professional American football team based in Buffalo, New York, currently competing in the 2026 NFL season.
The details
Austin Johnson, a second-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, reunites with the team to bolster the interior defensive line. The roster adjustment was necessary after the Miami Dolphins signed Andre Jones Jr. from the Buffalo practice squad.
Timeline
Austin Johnson was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2016.
Johnson previously played for the Buffalo Bills in 2024.
T.J. Sanders underwent an appendectomy on September 22, 2026.
The Buffalo Bills play the Los Angeles Chargers on September 27, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The Bills are managing their roster to sustain their undefeated 2-0 start while navigating medical setbacks. This move ensures the team maintains the necessary depth to remain 7-point favorites against the Los Angeles Chargers.
T.J. Sanders is unlikely to be available for the upcoming Sunday matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers. The Bills enter that game as 7-point favorites, with Johnson providing an immediate emergency option for the defensive line rotation.
The takeaway
Maintaining veteran depth remains a critical component of sustaining a winning record through an NFL season. Players like Johnson offer the team immediate stability when unexpected medical absences occur.
Further reading
For more information on team news, visit Buffalo Football.
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