The Buffalo Bills announced on Friday that wide receiver Joshua Palmer has been ruled out for their upcoming AFC Wild Card playoff game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. The decision comes as part of the team’s final injury report ahead of Sunday’s matchup.
Palmer had been dealing with an undisclosed injury that limited his availability in practice during the week. After being evaluated by the team’s medical staff, the Bills decided to downgrade his status from questionable to out. As a result, he will not be available when the Bills travel to face the Jaguars in Jacksonville.
In Palmer’s absence, rookie wide receiver Keon Coleman is expected to be active for the playoff game. Coleman, who has appeared in a limited role during the regular season, will likely see increased playing time as the Bills adjust their receiving corps. His availability provides additional depth to a receiver group led by Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis.
The Bills’ offense will look to maintain its rhythm in the passing game despite the change. Quarterback Josh Allen has consistently spread the ball among his targets throughout the regular season, and the team will need a balanced offensive effort to succeed on the road in the postseason.
Buffalo finished the regular season with a strong stretch of performances, earning a playoff berth and looking to advance past the first round for the third time in the last four seasons. The Jaguars, meanwhile, will be playing in front of their home crowd after clinching the AFC South division title.
While Palmer’s absence is a setback for the Bills, the team has consistently adapted to injuries this season. The development of younger players like Coleman gives the coaching staff flexibility in managing personnel changes. It remains to be seen how the receiving rotation will unfold against a Jaguars defense that has allowed some big plays through the air this season.
Kickoff for the wild card matchup between the Bills and Jaguars is scheduled for Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time.
