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Young Star Earns Starting Role Amid Defensive Injuries — Fans Say He Just Saved His NFL Dream

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We are Dorian Williams (42) days away from Bills regular-season football! :  r/buffalobills

Buffalo, NY – The Buffalo Bills’ defense is entering Week 3 against the Miami Dolphins without two of its most trusted anchors. Linebacker Matt Milano and defensive tackle Ed Oliver have both been ruled out, forcing Buffalo to turn to its younger depth pieces to carry the load.

That spotlight now shines directly on Dorian Williams. The third-year linebacker will slide into Milano’s role as the Bills aim for a 3–0 start. For Williams, this is more than just another assignment — it’s a chance to prove he belongs as a long-term building block for Buffalo’s defense.

Fans have been quick to rally around him. On social media, many called this his “second shot” at proving himself, while others declared, “He just saved his NFL dream.” Williams’ performance last season in relief of Milano, when he led the team in tackles, gives Bills Mafia hope that history can repeat itself.

Veteran linebacker Matt Milano expressed his disappointment but also voiced his faith in the younger players:

“It’s tough not being able to be out there with my brothers, and it hurts to watch from the sidelines. But this is football, and injuries happen. What excites me is that it gives opportunities to the young, talented guys — the future of the Bills. I know they’ll step up.”

Head coach Sean McDermott will count on Williams to line up next to Terrel Bernard and Shaq Thompson, forming a revamped linebacking corps. With Miami’s explosive offense on deck, the Bills are betting on youth, energy, and resilience to keep their defensive standard alive.

Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722