Analyst Suggests Bills Re-sign Matt Milano

The Buffalo Bills are considering roster adjustments as their current linebacker unit struggles.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Football

Analyst Suggests Bills Re-sign Matt Milano

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Analyst Brad Gagnon is calling for the Buffalo Bills to re-sign free agent linebacker Matt Milano to bolster their defensive unit. The team currently holds a 4-1 record but has faced notable challenges at the linebacker position throughout the season.

Why it matters

The Bills are seeking to address defensive weaknesses to maintain their momentum as they prepare for a crucial matchup. Strengthening the defense is viewed as a vital step in their competitive campaign.

Matt Milano, who spent nine seasons in Buffalo, recorded a career-high 101 tackles during the 2019 season. The defensive unit logged 1,165 combined snaps last season while navigating various roster constraints.

The players

Brad Gagnon

He is a professional sports analyst who provided the recommendation regarding the team's roster strategy.

Matt Milano

He is an experienced NFL linebacker who played for the Buffalo Bills for nine seasons after being selected in the 2017 draft.

Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are an NFL franchise currently holding a 4-1 record and playing in the city of Buffalo.

Shaq Thompson

He is a professional football player who is currently signed to the Buffalo Bills practice squad.

The details

The Buffalo Bills selected Matt Milano in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, establishing a long-standing tenure before he became a free agent. While Shaq Thompson is currently available on the practice squad for potential elevation, the team is evaluating options to improve their linebacker depth.

The Buffalo Bills selected Matt Milano in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Matt Milano recorded 101 tackles during the 2019 season.
The Buffalo Bills are scheduled to play the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, October 18, 2026.

Season Trajectory

The potential return of a veteran like Matt Milano fits into the established history of the 2017 NFL Draft class as a foundational era for the team. This move would impact the current playoff outlook by stabilizing a defensive unit that has struggled mid-season.

The Bills' ability to tighten their defense will directly impact the point spreads and defensive efficiency metrics in upcoming games. A signing could shift the rotational hierarchy on the field during the next matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders.

The takeaway

Re-integrating a veteran player who is familiar with the defensive system can provide immediate stability for a team chasing a high seed. Fans should monitor roster elevation reports leading up to Sunday for any changes in the depth chart.