Buffalo Bills’ Running Back Nyheim Hines to Miss Entire Season Due to Knee Injury
By Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero
In a devastating blow to the Buffalo Bills, running back Nyheim Hines will miss the entire upcoming season due to a significant knee injury suffered off-site, according to sources familiar with the situation. The news was reported Monday by NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
Hines, who was acquired by the Bills last year in a midseason trade with the Indianapolis Colts, had reworked his contract this offseason, taking a pay cut to remain with the team. The dynamic running back was expected to be a valuable pass-catching option out of the backfield, providing support behind the likes of James Cook, Damien Harris, and Latavius Murray. However, with Hines out for the year, the third-down role in passing situations will now be up for grabs.
Known for his elusiveness and speed, Hines was also expected to serve as the primary kick and punt returner for the Bills. In Week 18 of last season, he made headlines by returning two kickoffs for touchdowns. With Hines sidelined, Buffalo will have to search for replacements in the return game. Among the potential options are Deonte Harty, Khalil Shakir, and Micah Hyde.
Season-ending injuries are always painful, but the timing of Hines’ injury makes it even worse. Missing the entire season before even stepping foot into training camp is a brutal blow for both the player and the team. The Bills will now have to adjust their game plan and find ways to compensate for the absence of such a talented and versatile player.
As the Bills head into the upcoming season, they will have to rely on their other running backs to step up and fill the void left by Hines. Additionally, the team will have to find a way to replace his contributions on special teams. It will be a challenging task, but with a talented roster and coaching staff, Buffalo is determined to find success despite this setback.
The Bills are now left hoping for a swift recovery for Hines and are optimistic that he will return to full strength in time for the following season. In the meantime, they will look to rally around their other playmakers and continue to strive for success on the field.