Big Surprise! Bills Place Dawson Knox on Non‑Football Injury List
Unexpected Move Shakes Up Buffalo’s Training Camp Outlook
Just before the start of training camp, the Buffalo Bills dropped a bombshell by placing veteran tight end Dawson Knox on the Non‑Football Injury (NFI) list. Coach Sean McDermott confirmed Knox (sidelined with a hamstring issue), along with a few other starters, will not practice on Day 1 of camp. Though no details were shared, McDermott emphasized a “cautious approach,” suggesting the injuries are not life‑threatening
As training camp kicked off at St. John Fisher University, Knox’s sudden absence raised alarms. The seven‑year veteran was counting on this offseason to bounce back after two underwhelming seasons. Instead of shaking off rust, he’s now sidelined indefinitely while officials keep the details under wraps
Why It Matters: Knox’s Role and Roster Ripples
Even though Dalton Kincaid has emerged as the team’s primary receiving tight end, Knox remains a crucial piece—especially for his blocking skills in the Bills’ rushing attack. Losing him even briefly creates uncertainty in Buffalo’s tight end rotation
To fill the emergency void, the team has signed veteran tight end Matt Sokol. He’ll serve as stand‑by depth until Knox returns—if he returns soon. It’s a quick fix, but not ideal for a roster built around versatility and depth
Serious or Precautionary? The Big Question
With teams usually placing players on NFI for personal or non‑football injuries, the lack of clarity has fueled speculation. Could it be a minor flare‑up, a virus, or something more serious? Reports indicate Knox “tweaked it during training,” prompting concern but not panic SISI.
Sean McDermott and GM Brandon Beane have each stressed they are taking things “one day at a time,” refusing to rule anything out or offer timelines. Despite that, all signs point to precaution over crisis
What’s at Stake: Bills’ Offensive Plans in Limbo
Knox’s absence creates a broader ripple effect. The Bills had hoped to incorporate more two-tight end sets this season, partly to maximize Josh Allen’s targets. Now, game-planning becomes more complicated. With Knox out, defensive flexibility and blocking schemes may need a redesign
✅ What We Know (and What We Don’t)
| Issue | Details |
|---|---|
| Designation | Placed on active/non‑football injury list before camp |
| Reported Injury | Hamstring (non‑football origin, unspecified) |
| Timeline | No return date announced; injury seems minor overall |
| Team Response | Conservative approach; using backup TE Matt Sokol |
| Offensive Impact | Potential setback for blocking packages and multiple‑TE sets |
In short: What initially looked like a minor hiccup could turn into a key test of depth for Buffalo. The Bills are riding a wave of Super Bowl hopes, and the loss of a veteran like Knox—even temporarily—could alter their offensive rhythm.
For now, the questions remain: Is this a serious setback or simply a blip on the radar? The Bills’ strategy all season may hinge on the answer.
