Yardbarker
x
Bills aren't ruling out key defensive player just yet ahead of clash against Chiefs
Mark Koneznyi-USA TODAY Sports

Despite having been carted off the field in Sunday's wild-card win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, linebacker Terrel Bernard isn't giving up.

And head coach Sean McDermott seems to still have faith that he might be good to go, saying on Friday that he isn't ruling him out for the game. 

This is despite the fact that he hasn't practiced all week and still won't practice on Friday. But McDermott wants to see how he looks on Saturday and Sunday before making a final decision. 

Bernard went down in the third quarter after tackling receiver Diontae Johnson. He remained on the ground in pain and was ultimately carted off. 

The Bills defense is already riddled with injuries, so losing Bernard would be a devastating loss. 

It was reported after the game that the X-rays on Bernard's ankle were negative and the initial diagnosis is an ankle sprain.

So far this season, Bernard has three interceptions, five passes defended, three fumble recoveries, 6.5 sacks and 143 tackles. Prior to leaving the game, he had a fumble recovery, two passes defended, and four tackles in Monday's game alone. 

So they can certainly use him when facing off against the Chiefs in the divisional round. 

Along with that, Stefon Diggs is going to be a limited participant after sitting out on Thursday with foot injury while also taking a veteran rest day. He also sustained the injury during the game against the Steelers, but they are hopeful. 

However, McDermott has ruled out four players for the game, with WR Gabe Davis, CB Christian Benford, LB Baylon Spector and S Taylor Rapp all sidelined. 

With injuries having affected this team so much already, hopefully Bernard will be good to go. 

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

+

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.