Terrel Bernard Injury News & Updates

Bernard (elbow) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Steelers, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard suffered the injury in last Thursday night's loss to the Texans and remains a candidate for injured reserve, as he's likely looking at a multi-week absence. Veterans Shaq Thompson and Matt Milano are candidates to see expanded roles at linebacker for Buffalo.

Bernard (elbow) will not practice Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Head coach Sean McDermott told reporters that Bernard was a candidate to be placed on injured reserve after sustaining an elbow injury in the Bills' Week 12 loss to the Texans, so Wednesday's DNP comes as no surprise. It's likely a longshot for Bernard to suit up for Sunday's matchup against the Steelers, suggesting Shaq Thompson could have an expanded role in the team's linebacker corps.

Head coach Sean McDermott said Friday that Bernard (elbow) is a candidate to be placed on injured reserve, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Bernard suffered an elbow injury during the Bills' 23-19 loss to the Texans on Thursday, which is severe enough for him to be considered for a stint on IR. He'll continue to undergo further tests to evaluate the extent of his injury, but he's facing a significant absence, which opens the door for Joe Andreessen or Shaq Thompson to step into a starting role at linebacker alongside Matt Milano and Dorian Williams.

Bernard (elbow) has been ruled out for the rest of Thursday night's matchup with the Texans.

The middle linebacker had just gotten over an ankle injury in time for Thursday's game. Bernard had five tackles (three solo) at the time of his exit, bringing his season total to 56 (40 solo). Joe Andreessen is his backup.

Bernard (ankle) has no injury designation ahead of Thursday night's matchup against the Texans.

The 26-year-old upgraded to full practice Wednesday after logging a limited session Tuesday, suggesting he's moved past his ankle injury in time to suit up for the Week 12 contest. Bernard has been one of the Bills' most productive defenders this season, recording 52 total tackles and three passes defensed, including one interception, in just nine appearances. He's expected to operate as the team's top middle linebacker Thursday night.

Bernard (ankle) was a limited participant during Monday's walkthrough practice, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard has been working through an ankle injury since mid-October but has played in each of the Bills' last three games, including Sunday's 44-32 win over the Buccaneers, when he logged 11 combines tackles and two pass defenses while playing every single defensive snap. The fourth-year linebacker will have two more opportunities to increase his practice participation ahead of Thursday's game against the Texans.

Bernard recorded 11 total tackles (eight solo) and two passes defensed in Sunday's 44-32 win over the Buccaneers.

Bernard notched double-digit tackles for the first time this season and played 100 percent of Buffalo's defensive snaps for the second consecutive game the Week 11 win. He's now tallied 52 total tackles and three passes defensed, including on interception, over nine appearances this year. Expect Bernard to remain one of the Bills' top linebackers in the Week 12 matchup against the Texans.

Bernard (ankle) returned to full practice participation Thursday.

Bernard upgraded to full participation Thursday after being a limited participant Wednesday due to a persisting ankle injury. Full participation means the captain will likely be able to suit up for Sunday's contest against the Buccaneers, where he'll need to rally his squad for a strong defensive effort after last weeks 30-13 loss to the Dolphins.

Bernard (ankle) doesn't carry an injury designation for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Bernard logged full practices both Thursday and Friday. The starting middle linebacker appears back to full health in anticipation of Sunday's divisional matchup. The captain logged six total tackles (four solo) during the Bills' win over the Chiefs. Bernard will look to log another strong performance against the Dolphins after helping to seal the Bills' Week 3 victory against the divisional rival with an interception.

Bernard (ankle) was a full participant in Thursday's practice.

Bernard already appears back to full health after having been limited in practice Wednesday. Barring any setbacks, the middle linebacker can be considered on track for his usual every-down role on defense during Sunday's road divisional matchup against the Dolphins.

Bernard (ankle) was limited in practice Wednesday.

Bernard played 98 percent of defensive snaps during Buffalo's win over the Chiefs in Week 9, recording six tackles (four solo). The veteran linebacker has now tallied six or more stops in four of his last five appearances, giving him a solid fantasy floor in IDP formats. Bernard will have two more chances to officially upgrade to full practice reps before the Bills decide whether to assign him an injury designation for Sunday's road matchup against the Dolphins.

Bernard recorded six tackles (four solo) in the Bills' win over the Chiefs on Sunday.

Bernard has started all seven games in which he's appeared this season, as he missed one contest with an ankle issue. After missing the Bills' Week 8 win over the Panthers, Bernard played 98 percent of the defensive snaps against Kansas City. He's up to 36 tackles (25 solo), one interception on one pass breakup and two fumble recoveries this season.

Bernard (ankle) will practice in full Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard was active for the Bills' Week 8 win over the Panthers but didn't play a snap due to an ankle injury sustained the game prior. His full practice participation Wednesday suggests he's completely moved past the issue and will be ready to face the Chiefs in Week 9. Expect Bernard to reassume his duties as one of the Bills' top inside linebackers Sunday.

Bernard (ankle) is active for Sunday's matchup with the Panthers but will not start, Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network reports.

Bernard is active but ideally won't play in hopes of being 100% for Week 9 versus the Chiefs. The Bills are reportedly using him as an emergency linebacker with the plan to start Shaq Thompson and Dorian Williams.

Bernard (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Panthers.

Bernard picked up an ankle injury during the Bills' Week 6 loss to the Falcons, which limited his practice participation during Week 8 prep. He's gone through pregame warmups without issue, and the 2022 third-rounder has been cleared to play in Sunday's road contest. Bernard's availability is crucial for a Bills linebacker corps that will be without Matt Milano (pectoral) for the fourth time in five games.

Bernard (ankle) will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard was reportedly viewed as day-to-day after Buffalo's Week 6 loss to the Falcons, so a Week 7 bye likely provided enough time for the starting middle linebacker to recover. If Bernard's unable to play Sunday, Joe Andreessen would be asked to step into a starting role.

Bernard (ankle) will practice in a limited fashion Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Head coach Sean McDermott told reporters that Bernard was considered "day-to-day" after sustaining an ankle injury in the Week 6 loss to the Falcons, so it's no surprise he was limited at Wednesday's practice. The fourth-year pro from Baylor has appeared in all six of Buffalo's games this season, recording 30 total tackles and one interception. His practice participation Thursday and Friday will likely provide the best indication of whether he can play in the Week 8 matchup against the Panthers.

Head coach Sean McDermott said Tuesday that Bernard is considered "day-to-day" due to an ankle injury he sustained during the Bills' 24-14 loss to the Falcons on Monday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard played 41 snaps (38 on defense, three on special teams) and tallied four tackles (two solo) prior to his injury. The Bills are on a bye for Week 7, so it's possible that the fourth-year linebacker is available for the Bills' Week 8 road clash against the Panthers on Sunday, Oct. 26. With Shaq Thompson filling in for the injured Matt Milano (pectoral), Joe Andreessen would be a candidate to see more snaps on defense if Bernard were to be sidelined.

Bernard (ankle) is questionable to return to Monday night's contest against the Falcons, Lance Lysowski of The Buffalo News reports.

Bernard suffered an ankle injury in the first half, and his status for the rest of the game is now up in the air. He recorded four tackles (two solo) before exiting the contest, and in his absence, Joe Andreessen will stand to see an increase in workload at middle linebacker versus Atlanta.

Bernard tallied six solo tackles and a fumble recovery during the Bills' 23-20 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.

Bernard played every single defensive snap for the third time in five games and co-led the Bills in tackles with Greg Rousseau and Matt Milano. Bernard has recorded at least six tackles in each of his last three games, and the fourth-year linebacker is up to 26 tackles (19 solo), one interception and two fumble recoveries through the first five games of the regular season.

Bernard recorded six total tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 31-19 win over the Saints.

Bernard finished second on the team in takedowns behind cornerback Tre'Davious White (7) in the team's Week 4 victory. The linebacker has now registered 20 total tackles (13 solo), while also adding an interception over four games this season.

Bernard finished with seven tackles (five solo), including one for a loss, and an interception in the Bills' 31-21 win over the Dolphins on Thursday night.

The middle linebacker's fourth-quarter pick of Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa allowed the Bills to drive down for a game-clinching field goal. Bernard now has 14 tackles (nine solo) on the year to go along with the interception and a fumble recovery.

Bernard finished with four tackles (two solo) in Sunday's 30-10 win against the Jets.

No Buffalo defender recorded move than five stops in a game during which the Bills dominated time of possession by nearly 17 minutes. Bernard finished tied for the third on the team with his four stops, which was one more than he registered in the season opener against Baltimore. Bernard and Buffalo next face Miami in Week 3.

Bernard registered three tackles (two solo), a defensed pass and a fumble recovery Monday in a 41-40 win over Baltimore.

Bernard's fumble recovery was huge, as it came late in the fourth quarter with the Bills trailing by eight and set up a Josh Allen touchdown run. It was an otherwise pretty quiet game by the veteran linebacker, whose three stops were fewer than he recorded in all but one contest last season. Bernard dealt with a hamstring injury in training camp but was able to play all 51 of Buffalo's defensive snaps Sunday.

Bernard (hamstring) isn't listed on the Bills' injury report Wednesday.

Bernard dealt with a hamstring injury for much of training camp, but he's presumably past the issue. That means he'll likely be able to play Sunday versus Baltimore in the regular-season opener. Bernard is looking to reach triple-digit tackles for the third straight campaign and was rewarded with a four-year, $50 million contract this spring.

Bernard did not practice Sunday due to a hamstring injury, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

This is the first word of Bernard dealing with the injury, and it's not clear how severe the issue is. Given that it's still early in training camp, the Bills are likely to exercise caution with the starting linebacker's return to practice. Bernard has topped 100 regular-season tackles each of the past two years and re-signed with Buffalo on a four-year, $50 million contract in early March.

Bernard and the Bills have agreed to terms on a four-year, $50 million contract, Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reports.

The 2022 third-round pick had one season remaining on his rookie contract, after thriving the past two years. He wasn't as statistically dominant in 2024 as he had been in 2023, but he still topped 100 tackles and had multiple interceptions despite missing four games. In 2023, he had one of the best statistical seasons by a linebacker in recent years, recording 143 tackles (84 solo), 6.5 sacks, five pass defenses, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries. Garofolo reports that Bernard's new contract includes $25.2 million guaranteed, which would put him fourth among off-ball linebackers, behind Baltimore's Roquan Smith ($45 million), Chicago's Tremaine Edmunds ($41.8 million) and San Francisco's Fred Wagner ($27.5 million). The reported average annual value of $12.5 million ranks a bit lower, tying for sixth at the position.

Over 13 regular-season games in 2024, Bernard recorded 104 tackles (55 solo) including 1.0 sacks, along with two interceptions and a fumble recovery.

Bernard led Buffalo's linebackers in snaps by a wide margin in 2024 despite missing four games due to injuries, and he just managed to reach 100 tackles for the second season straight. Despite the lesser raw numbers, he was more productive on a per-snap basis than he was in his breakout campaign in 2023. Bernard was the Bills' second leading tackler in 2024 and figures to retain a starting role and mainstream IDP appeal during the last year of his rookie contract in 2025.

Coach Sean McDermott said Wednesday that Bernard (quadriceps) will be active for Sunday's wild-card game versus Denver, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard was not able to play in Buffalo's regular-season finale due to a quadriceps injury, but he'll be good to go for the start of the playoffs. He figures to play a near-every down role at linebacker against a middling Broncos offense Sunday.

Coach Sean McDermott said Friday that he feels good about Bernard's (quadriceps) chances of playing in next weekend's playoff opener, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard will not play Sunday against the Patriots, but it sounds like his injury suffered in Week 17 isn't serious enough to keep him sidelined long-term. Through 13 appearances this season, Bernard has logged 104 tackles (55 solo), including five TFLs and 1.0 sacks, three pass breakups, including two interceptions, and one fumble recovery.

Coach Sean McDermott said Wednesday that Bernard (leg) won't play in Week 18 against the Patriots, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard apparently suffered a leg injury during Sunday's game versus the Jets, and he'll need to sit out of his team's final regular season game as he recovers. In his absence, rookie Joe Andreessen figures to see an uptick in snaps Sunday.

Bernard finished Sunday's 24-21 win over New England with 12 tackles (eight solo).

Sunday was the third straight game that Bernard has registered double-digit tackles. He's logged at least eight combined tackles in each of his last eight outings, and he has played every single snap in six of those contests. Bernard is up to 98 combined tackles through 12 regular-season games, and he'll likely hit the century mark for the second straight year in the Bills' Week 17 clash against the Jets on Sunday, Dec. 29.

Bernard totaled 10 tackles (four solo) during Buffalo's win over the Lions on Sunday.

Bernard led the team in tackles once again during Sunday's victory and has now racked up double-digit tackles in back-to-back games and three times total this season. Across his first 11 outings of the campaign, the 25-year-old has recorded 86 tackles (47 solo), with 1.0 sacks, and two interceptions.

Bernard recorded 10 tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 44-42 loss to the Rams.

Bernard has now recorded eight or more tackles in seven of the 10 games he's played in this season. The middle linebacker has 76 stops (43 solo) on the year. He also has three pass breakups, including two interceptions, and a fumble recovery.

Bernard recorded nine sacks (three solo) in Sunday's 35-10 Week 13 win over San Francisco.

In blizzardy conditions, Bernard managed to log more stops than any other player in the contest. The third-year linebacker has been very consistent of late, tallying either eight or nine tackles in each of his five contests. Bernard appears to be well past the ankle injury that sidelined him Week 8 versus Seattle.

Bernard recorded eight tackles (three solo), including 1.0 sacks, and an interception in Sunday's 30-21 win over the Chiefs.

The middle linebacker also played on every defensive snap for the fifth time in the eight games he's played in this season. Bernard has 57 tackles (36 solo), three passes defensed, two interceptions and a fumble recovery in 2024.

Bernard finished Sunday's 30-20 win over the Colts with nine tackles (four solo) and one pass defense.

Bernard co-led the Bills in tackling Sunday with Dorian Williams. Bernard has logged at least eight tackles in three consecutive outings and has played every single defensive snap in five regular-season games. He's up to 49 tackles (33 solo), two pass defenses (including one interception) and one fumble recovery across seven regular-season contests.

Bernard tallied eight tackles (six solo) in Sunday's 30-27 win over the Dolphins.

Bernard returned from a one-game absence due to an ankle injury and was able to be on the field for all 60 of the Bills' defensive snaps. He tied his second-highest tackle total of the campaign. Bernard has registered 40 tackles (29 solo) and an interception through six contests on the campaign.

Bernard (ankle) has no injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Dolphins.

Bernard was able to practice in full Friday after logging back-to-back limited sessions to begin the Bills' week of practice, suggesting he's now moved past his ankle issue. The third-year linebacker has recorded 32 total tackles and one interception across five appearances this season. He's expected to serve as Buffalo's top middle linebacker in Week 9's divisional matchup.

Bernard (ankle) was a limited participant during practice Wednesday, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard missed the Bills' Week 8 win over the Seahawks and was unable to practice leading up to the game. His ability to get back on the field in any capacity should have him on the right trajectory to suit up Week 9 against the Dolphins. However, a clearer picture of his status for the matchup likely won't come closer to kickoff Sunday.

Bernard (ankle/pectoral/personal) is ruled out for Sunday's game against Seattle, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard missed two games earlier this season due to a pectoral injury, and a trio of designations will now keep him sidelined for Week 8. That means Barnard's next chance to take the field will come Week 9 against the Dolphins. Against Seattle on Sunday, though, Baylon Spector will get a chance to step into a starting role in the Bills' linebacker corps.

Bernard (ankle/pectoral/personal) did not participate in Thursday's practice, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Bernard has missed the first two practices of the week, and he is in jeopardy of being ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Seahawks. The 2022 third-round pick was forced out of the Bills' Week 7 win over the Titans twice due to head and ankle injuries, the former of which he was cleared of. Bernard missed two games earlier in the regular season due to a pectoral injury, during which Baylon Spector filled in as the Bills' top inside linebacker.

Bernard (ankle/pectoral/personal) did not practice Wednesday, Dorian Alerte of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard left Sunday's win over the Titans twice, once due to a head injury (he was cleared) and the second time due to the ankle issue, which now has him sidelined to start the week's practice slate along with apparent pectoral and personal reasons. Bernard is a tackle monster when healthy -- he accrued 143 of them last season -- but his status appears to be in jeopardy for this week's game contest in Seattle.

Bernard (ankle) has been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's game against the Titans.

Bernard left Sunday's game for a second time due to an ankle injury, which is severe enough for him to be sidelined for the rest of the game. He'll end his day with eight tackles (six solo) and one fumble recovery. Baylon Spector will step in as the Bills' middle linebacker with Bernard out for the game.

Bernard is questionable to return to Sunday's tilt with the Titans due to an ankle injury.

Bernard tallied eight tackles (six solo) and one fumble recovery prior to exiting the contest. It remains to be seen if he will be able to return. In his absence, Baylon Spector would be the likely candidate to fill in at middle linebacker.

Bernard (head) has returned to Sunday's game against the Titans.

Bernard briefly left Sunday's game while being evaluated for a head injury, but he is back on the field. He's logged five solo tackles in the first half alone.

Bernard is being evaluated for a head injury and is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the Titans.

Bernard sustained the injury during the second quarter of Sunday's game. Baylon Spector is the next man up at middle linebacker alongside Dorian Williams and Nicholas Morrow for as long as Bernard is sidelined.

Bernard recorded five tackles (two solo) and one interception in Buffalo's loss to the Texans on Sunday.

After missing the previous two games with a pectoral injury, Bernard played 100 percent of the defensive snaps against the Texans and intercepted C.J. Stroud in the fourth quarter with Buffalo trailing 20-17. Through three games this season, Bernard has 18 tackles (14 solo) and the one interception.

Bernard (pectoral) is active Week 5 against the Texans.

Bernard will suit up for the first time since Week 2's early exit against Miami, and given his role as the middle linebacker and the fact he recorded 11 combined tackles in Week 1, he immediately returns to the IDP radar.

Bernard (pectoral) is expected to play Sunday against Houston, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Bernard missed the past two weeks after exiting early against Miami in Week 2 due to a pec strain. The linebacker logged a trio of limited practices this week, putting him in position to return Sunday. Baylon Spector has been filling in for Bernard and will likely return to a rotational role with the latter back in action.

Bernard (pectoral) will practice Friday and is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Texans, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard is coming of back-to-back missed games and has been limited at practice, but he'll have a chance to retake the field Sunday versus Houston. The 2022 third-round pick played 100 percent of defensive snaps Week 1 before sustaining a pectoral injury Week 2.

Bernard (pectoral) was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's injury report.

Bernard was working on the side during practice last week, so this seems like a step in the right direction for the Baylor product. The likelihood of him suiting up this Sunday against the Texans will be clearer if he can turn in a full practice Thursday or Friday.

Head coach Sean McDermott expects Bernard (pectoral) to return to practice at some point this week, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard was actually practicing last week, in a limited fashion with a non-contact jersey on, so it's not exactly clear what McDermott is stating. It may be safe to assume that McDermott was implying Bernard will shed the non-contact jersey and be more of a full participant, which could put him on a trajectory to return in Week 5 against the Texans, after a two-game absence. However, further clarity will likely come later in the week once the team returns to practice and releases their first injury report.

Bernard (pectoral) has been ruled out for Sunday night's game against the Ravens.

Bernard was a limited participant in practice Thursday, and he's expected to again do individual drills Friday. It's a positive sign after it was feared he suffered a serious pectoral injury in Week 2 versus Miami. Baylon Spector has been filling in as the Bills' top inside linebacker with Bernard out. Spector should see heavy action versus the run-first Ravens on Sunday night.

Bernard (pectoral) was a limited participant during practice Thursday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

Bernard was already ruled out for Week 4 against the Ravens on Tuesday, but his return to the field is a positive sign of his potential availability for Week 5. However, in a separate tweet, Getzenberg, mentioned he was on the field in a red non-contact jersey, so it's hard to gauge how well he is doing. Either way, Baylon Spector should be the Bills' starting middle linebacker against Baltimore on Sunday.

Bernard (pectoral) will not play against the Ravens on Sunday, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

This will be the second straight game Bernard will sit out due to a pec strain he sustained in the Bills' Week 2 win over the Dolphins. Despite the extended absence, head coach Sean McDermott relayed Tuesday that Bernard is improving in his recovery and doesn't believe the 25-year-old linebacker will require a stint on injured reserve, per Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News. That could mean Bernard has a chance at playing in Week 5 against the Texans on Oct. 6, though that will depend on his practice participation leading up to the game. In Bernard's absence, Baylon Spector will continue to serve as the Bills' starting middle linebacker.

Bernard (pectoral) will not play Monday against the Jaguars, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Bernard exited Thursday's win over the Dolphins early after suffering the injury and is still not ready to return and it could be a while before he's ready to do so. Head coach Sean McDermott told Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News on Wednesday that there's no official update on the Baylor product's timeline and whether or not he may need to go on IR. Buscaglia also noted that Baylon Spector is expected to start at middle linebacker Monday against Jacksonville.

Bernard (pectoral) suffered a pec strain during Thursday's 31-10 win over Miami and is expected to miss roughly one month, making him a candidate for IR, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.

Bernard has avoided a season-ending injury, but if placed on IR he'll have to miss at least Buffalo's next four games. The Bills' defense has been impressive through two regular-season contests despite having to deal with a notable amount of injuries, including fellow linebacker Matt Milano (biceps), so it will be a notable blow for the team as long as Bernard is absent. Baylon Spector stepped in for Bernard on Thursday and seems likely to start Week 3 versus Jacksonville.

Bernard (pectoral) has been downgraded to out for the rest of Thursday's game against the Dolphins, Henry McKenna of FoxSports.com reports.

The starting middle linebacker left the game in the first quarter after making two tackles. Bernard led Buffalo with 11 tackles in Week 1 against Arizona. Baylon Spector, the Bills' backup middle linebacker, has seven tackles in Thursday's game.

Bernard (pectoral) is questionable to return to Thursday's game against the Dolphins, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

The starting middle linebacker made two tackles before exiting. Bernard led the Bills with 11 tackles in the team's Week 1 win over Arizona. Baylon Spector is the next man up on the depth chart.

Bernard led the Bills with 11 total tackles in Sunday's 34-28 win over the Cardinals.

Bernard posted a whopping 143 tackles last season, his first as a starter, and he's picked right up where he left off. With Matt Milano out for a good chunk of the season with a biceps injury, it would be a surprise if Bernard didn't lead the Bills in tackles, barring injury, and perhaps by a good margin. He's become a leader of this defense in just his third season and could end up being one of the league's better IDPs in 2024 if your format places a heavy weighting on tackles.

Bernard, who missed the Bills' Jan. 21 playoff loss to the Chiefs due to an ankle injury, feels very good health-wise at this stage of the offseason, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 Buffalo reports.

Prior to suffering his injury in the Bills' wild-card win over the Steelers on Jan. 15, Bernard racked up 143 tackles, 6.5 sacks and three interceptions in 17 regular-season contests. Now that his ankle has had time to heal up, the 2022 third-rounder is set to reprise his role as Buffalo's starting middle linebacker, which puts the 24-year-old in a position to remain a viable lineup option in IDP formats this coming season.

Bernard (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's divisional-round playoff game against the Chiefs.

The starting middle linebacker suffered an ankle injury in the Bills' wild-card win over the Steelers and then missed practice all week. Bernard has enjoyed a breakout season in 2023, recording 143 tackles, five passes defensed, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries during the regular season. A.J. Klein made 11 tackles in Buffalo's wild-card win and should play again in Bernard's absence.

Bernard (ankle) is a game-time decision for Sunday's divisional-round game against the Chiefs, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.com reports.

The Bills will give Bernard a chance to go through warmups and prove he's healthy enough to play, but Cameron Wolfe of NFL Network stated that Bernard will likely sit out after missing practice all week. Bernard is a key part of this defense, as he posted 143 tackles (84 solo), 6.5 sacks, five pass breakups and three interceptions over 17 games during the regular season. A.J. Klein -- who posted 11 stops in the wild-card round -- is expected to start at middle linebacker if Bernard can't go.

Bernard (ankle) is questionable for Sunday night's game against the Chiefs.

Bernard went DNP-DNP-DNP in practice this week, though Thursday is the only day the Bills held an actual practice, as the other two were merely walkthroughs. The linebacker is believed to have suffered a sprained right ankle in last Monday's win over the Steelers. Potentially missing Bernard would be yet another significant loss for the Buffalo defense.

Bernard (ankle) did not participate at the Bills' practice Thursday.

Bernard suffered an ankle injury in the team's wild-card win over the Steelers on Monday and he's now opened the week on the sidelines for Buffalo's first two practice sessions of the week. He'll look to return to the field for Friday's final session to increase his chances to go Sunday versus Kansas City.

Bernard (ankle) won't practice Wednesday, Matt Parrino of Syracuse.com reports.

Bernard is believed to be dealing with a right ankle sprain. The severity of the sprain has yet to be revealed, but he's likely fighting an uphill battle to suit up Sunday in the divisional round against the Chiefs. Backup linebacker Baylon Spector (back) also didn't practice Wednesday.

Bernard is believed to have suffered a right ankle sprain in Monday's wild-card win over Pittsburgh and will have an MRI on Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Bernard was hurt in the third quarter of Monday's playoff contest and had to be carted off the field. X-rays came back negative, but more could be learned about the injury through Tuesday's MRI. Fellow linebacker Baylon Spector (back) also departed with an injury Monday, and Tyrel Dodson was inactive due to a shoulder issue, so Buffalo could potentially be very thin at the position in the divisional round of the playoffs next weekend.

Bernard (ankle) did not return to the Bills' 31-17 win over the Steelers in the wild-card round Monday.

Bernard was carted off the field in the third quarter and underwent x-rays on his right ankle, the results of which are currently undisclosed. With Buffalo set to host the Chiefs on Sunday in the divisional round, Bernard's status is worth monitoring.

Bernard suffered a right leg injury in Monday's playoff game against the Steelers in the third quarter and has left the game on a cart.

The Bills have been playing inspired football, winning five in a row to end the regular season to go with a comfortable first-half lead against Pittsburgh, but the injuries continue to amount for the team, especially on defense. Bernard, who has been a key player all season following the offseason departure of long-time middle linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, looked to be in significant pain prior to leaving, so his status for the rest of the playoffs appears murky at this point.

Bernard had 10 tackles (eight solo), including two sacks, in Sunday's 27-21 win over the Patriots.

Bernard got to Bailey Zappe twice on the same drive in the third quarter, with each sack resulting in five-yard losses. It was the second multi-sack performance by Bernard this season, and the 2022 third-round pick out of Baylor is up to 6.5 on the year after recording none in his rookie season.

Bernard (ankle) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus the Patriots.

Despite being limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday, Bernard was a full participant at practice Friday, putting him on pace to play in Week 17. He figures as a solid IDP option.

Bernard was listed as limited for Wednesday's walkthrough session due to an ankle injury, Patrick Warren of the Bills' official site reports.

Bernard briefly checked out of Saturday's win over the Chargers, but he returned to finish with seven tackles that included a sack, giving him 4.5 on the season. It's been a breakthrough campaign for Bernard, who's up to 124 tackles in his second NFL year. He may remain limited throughout the week, but it's hard to envision such a key defensive piece not suiting up, with each of the final two games being critical for the 9-6 Bills.

Bernard finished with seven tackles (five solo), including a sack and a tackle for a loss, in the Bills' 24-22 win over the Chargers on Saturday.

The second-year middle linebacker continues to enjoy a breakout season, raising his tackle total to 124, the highest on the team. Bernard also has five passes defensed, three interceptions and three fumble recoveries in 2023.

Bernard recorded eight tackles (four solo) in Sunday's 20-17 victory over Kansas City.

Bernard reached at least eight takedowns for the first time since Week 10, finishing tied for second on the team with Tyrel Dodson. The 24-year-old has stepped into a prominent role this year and he's now compiled 112 tackles, including 3.5 sacks, while intercepting three passes, deflecting five others and recovering three fumbles over 13 contests in 2023.

Bernard recorded five total tackles (three solo), one pass deflection and one interception in Sunday's 37-34 overtime loss to the Eagles.

The second-year linebacker out of Baylor continues to be a bright spot on Buffalo's defense, and he was able to grab his third interception over the team's last 11 games Sunday. Bernard did have a relatively low tackle output though, as he had logged five or less tackles in only two games before Week 12. The Bills may be 6-6, but the team's defense has continued to be stout, allowing only 18.9 points per game (sixth-best in the NFL), and Bernard has been a large part of the team's success thus far.

Bernard (concussion) is active for Buffalo's game against the Broncos on Monday, Katherine Fitzgerald of The Buffalo News reports.

Bernard suffered a concussion during last week's loss to the Bengals but has now cleared the league's concussion protocol and will be able to return to the lineup for the Bills. The team will be happy to have the 24-year-old back as Matt Milano (leg) is still on injured reserve.

Bernard (concussion) is listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Broncos.

Most players who enter concussion protocol typically miss one game, so it'll be interesting to see what kind of designation Bernard will ahead of the 8:15 p.m. ET kickoff Monday. If the second-year linebacker is unable to play, talented rookie Dorian Williams and veteran A.J. Klein would likely be tasked with additional responsibilities at linebacker.

Bernard (concussion) will log a limited practice Thursday, according to head coach Sean McDermott, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Bernard remains in the league's concussion protocols, but his return to the practice field signals the second-year pro is making progress in gaining clearance to play. He'll likely need to get in a full practice Friday or Saturday with no setbacks to be able to do so and take the field Monday against the Broncos.

Coach Sean McDermott said Monday that Buffalo will "see" regarding Bernard's (concussion) availability for Week 10, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports.

At this point, it seems unlikely that Bernard will be able to suit up next Monday versus Denver, given that most players who have entered concussion protocol in 2023 have missed at least one game. The Bills' injury reports this week will provide more clarity on whether or not he'll prove an exception.

Bernard (concussion) won't return to Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Bernard was evaluated for a head injury in the first half, and he was downgraded to out at halftime. With the starting middle linebacker sidelined, Tyler Matakevich could see more snaps in a banged-up Buffalo linebacker corps that's already operating without Baylon Spector (hamstring), A.J. Klein (back) and Matt Milano (leg).

Bernard had eight tackles (six solo) in Thursday's 24-18 win over the Buccaneers.

Bernard had his double-digit tackle streak snapped at three games, but he still co-led the team in tackles alongside Jordan Poyer. Bernard leads the Bills defense with 76 tackles and is having a breakout year following his rookie season when he had just 22 tackles while playing mostly on special teams. He'll look to add to his total in Week 9 against Joe Burrow and the Bengals.

Bernard tallied 11 tackles (nine solo) during Buffalo's 29-25 loss to the Patriots on Sunday.

Bernard led the team in tackles and has now logged double-digit tackles in three straight games and four times on the season. The 24-year-old is having the best season of his young career, already setting new highs for tackles (68), sacks (two) and interceptions (two).

Bernard recorded 12 tackles (nine solo) in Sunday's 14-9 win over the Giants.

Bernard was able to reached double-digit takedowns for the second straight game and third time this season. The linebacker has stepped into a starting role this year and he's compiled 57 tackles, including two sacks, while intercepting two passes and recovering two fumbles over the first six contests of 2023.

Bernard logged 16 tackles (eight solo) during Buffalo's 25-20 loss to the Jaguars on Sunday.

Bernard's sixteen total tackles not only led the team in tackles Sunday but also set a new season high for himself. Through five games the 24-year-old has compiled 45 tackles (22 solo) and two interceptions and will look to add to those totals next week versus the Giants.

Bernard registered seven tackles (five solo) including two sacks and an interception in Sunday's 37-3 win over the Commanders.

Bernard had the most tackles in Week 3 and leads the team with 24 total tackles through three games this season. The Bills sacked Sam Howell nine times and picked off the young quarterback four times. Bernard and the Bills are in for a much tougher matchup as they take on the Dolphins in Week 4, who put up an NFL-record 726 scrimmage yards and 70 points on the Broncos in Week 3.

Bernard recorded six tackles and an interception in Sunday's 38-10 win versus the Raiders.

After a great game in Week 1, Bernard shined again in Week 2 when he found his way under a deflected screen pass attempt in the first quarter of action. The sophomore is making an impression early after earning a starting job at linebacker during the offseason, and it's starting to look like he'll be a good IDP option for the rest of the season.

Bernard recorded 11 tackles (four solo) in the Bills' 22-16 loss to the Jets on Monday.

Bernard has stepped into a featured role on Buffalo's defense in 2023 and he opened his sophomore campaign with a career-high 11 takedowns. With Tremaine Edmunds now with the Bears, Bernard could replace him as the Bills' leading tackler this season.

Coach Sean McDermott said Wednesday that Bernard will start in Week 1 at the Jets, Ryan O'Halloran of The Buffalo News reports.

Despite some assumptions that fourth-year man Tyrel Dodson had the edge in the competition for the role of starting middle linebacker, it will be the 2022 third-rounder Bernard who actually fills the spot, at least to start this season. If the starter designation indicates a true full-time role, it would make Bernard worth a look as an IDP since he'd have a huge share of opportunities to make tackles.

Bernard (hamstring) returned to practice Wednesday, Sal Capaccio of WGR Sports Radio 550 reports.

Bernard missed nearly two weeks due to the injury, but he's back and could still make a preseason appearance Saturday against the Bears. The 2022 third-round draft pick is contending for playing time at middle linebacker, where the Bills will need to find a new starter after Tremaine Edmunds left for Chicago in free agency.

Bernard (hamstring) is not suited up for Saturday's preseason opener versus the Colts, Joe Buscaglia of The Athletic reports.

Bernard exited Thursday's practice with a hamstring injury. It looks like the Bills are erring on the side of caution with him in order to avoid a lingering issue as training camp progresses. The 24-year-old is competing with Tyrel Dodson for the Bills' starting middle linebacker role.

Bernard exited practice Thursday due to a hamstring injury, Alaina Getzenberg of ESPN.com reports.

It's a tough break for Bernard who is in the middle of a competition with Tyrel Dodson for the starting middle-linebacker job. The former spent most of last season working on special teams, but the 2022 third-round selection had shown enough in camp to be considered for the role after the departure of Tremaine Edmunds. Bernard will now focus on getting healthy, so he can continue to make the effort to lock down a starting job.

Linebackers coach Bobby Babich implied Sunday that the open competition for the middle linebacker spot has been whittled down to Bernard and Tyrel Dodson, Alec White of the Bills' official site reports.

Tremaine Edmunds manned the starting MLB spot for five years, but he was offered a large free-agent contract by the Bears, and the Bills' spot is now up for grabs. It looks like Bernard, a second-year player our of Baylor, and Dodson have separated themselves from Baylon Spector and A.J. Klein, and the team would like to make a decision between the top two soon. Whoever wins the spot -- provided that person stays on the field for most of the game -- stands to rack up a decent tackle total, as Edmunds cleared the 100-tackle mark in all five of his seasons with the Bills.

Bills general manager Brandon Beane mentioned Bernard by name this week when discussing possible replacements for the vacant starting middle linebacker job following the departure of long-time starter Tremaine Edmunds to the Bears via free agency, Maddy Glab of the Bills' official site reports. "I think we got some young guys that have waited their turn and their opportunity," Beane said. "Let's start with Tyrel Dodson who has been here for a while in our system and knows it. I think he filled in admirably

That said, there are several players in the mix, including Baylon Spector, veteran A.J. Klein, Tyrel Dodson and anyone else the Bills might bring in via free agency or the 2023 Draft. Bernard was mostly special teams during his rookie season as a third-round pick out of Baylor and totaled 22 tackles on the season, but at least he'll have a chance to compete for more work and perhaps even a starting job. There is also opportunity for someone to step up at the weak-side linebacker spot opposite start outside linebacker Matt Milano.

Bernard is expected to serve as one of the Bills' starting linebackers in Sunday's game against the Jets with Matt Milano (oblique) listed as questionable but considered unlikely to play, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports.

Bernard, a third-round rookie out of Baylor, has played just 45 snaps on defense through seven games this season, with more than half of them (25) coming in the Bills' Week 5 win over the Steelers. Assuming Milano is inactive this week, Bernard should take on his largest snap share to date, but the rookie can't be counted on to be as reliable of an option in IDP leagues as the veteran has been when healthy.

Jay Skurski of The Buffalo News surmises that Bernard is one of three Bills linebackers that has a lock on a roster spot.

Bernard, a third-round rookie out of Baylor, actually has a chance of starting alongside stalwarts Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano, though the Bills play a number of different packages and Bernard could be subbed out for an extra defensive back or a pass rusher on occasion. Still, the future appears bright for Bernard, who scored on a fumble recovery in his first game as a pro Saturday while adding three tackles in an all-around nice debut.

The Bills selected Bernard in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft, 89th overall.

Bernard is the second player drafted off the Baylor defense in the third round. A linebacker, Bernard had two seasons with over 100 tackles in Waco and was on pace for three if not for an injury-shortened 2020. He ran a 4.59 40-yard dash at his pro day and had impressive jumps at the combine. Light for a linebacker at 218 pounds, Bernard will likely have to add bulk to play a reliable amount of snaps. That said, Bernard's speed and tackle production in college suggest that he could have success at the next level.