Bills coach McDermott on Oliver's injury: "I think just being in the early stages."

The Buffalo Bills will be without starting defensive tackle Ed Oliver for their upcoming game against the New York Jets due to an ankle injury sustained during practice.

Why it matters: Oliver's absence is significant for a Bills defense that prides itself on stopping the run, especially with two key AFC East matchups looming.

• The Jets rushed for 182 yards in Week 1, ranking fourth in the league, showcasing their capability to exploit defensive weaknesses.
• The Bills will also face the Miami Dolphins just six days after the Jets game, adding urgency to Oliver's recovery.

What’s new: Coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Oliver has been ruled out and is using a medical scooter for mobility while wearing a boot.

• Initially injured on Wednesday, Oliver's situation appears serious enough to extend beyond just one game.
• In Week 1 against the Baltimore Ravens, Oliver contributed significantly with six tackles and one sack, underscoring his importance to the defensive line.

Yes, but: While Oliver's loss is a blow, the Bills have depth at the position, particularly with rookie T.J. Sanders stepping up.

• Sanders, a second-round pick, could see increased playing time as he aims to fill the gap left by Oliver.
• However, it remains to be seen how effectively he can adjust to the speed and complexity of NFL offenses compared to a seasoned player like Oliver.

By the numbers: Oliver forced a fumble on running back Derrick Henry last season, demonstrating his ability to impact games defensively.

• His total of three sacks from the previous season suggests potential for improvement, making his current absence even more pronounced given his recent form.

What to watch: Keep an eye on how the Bills adjust their defensive schemes in light of Oliver's injury.

• They may shift to different alignments or blitz packages to compensate for the reduced presence in the interior line.
• The effectiveness of the defensive line against the rushing attack of the Jets will be critical, especially given their strong showing in the previous week.

The bottom line: Ed Oliver’s injury presents a substantial challenge for the Bills as they head into a critical stretch of divisional games.

• The team’s ability to adapt defensively while maintaining pressure on opposing quarterbacks will be key to their success in the coming weeks.