Bills Offense Gets Boost with Return of Speedy RB Before Steelers Game

The Bills will welcome running back Ty Johnson after his concussion against the Miami Dolphins last Sunday in their AFC East-clinching win. Johnson suffered the injury when he was stunned by Dolphins linebacker Jerome Baker on the goal line before halftime. Throughout the week, he was in the protocol but officially cleared it with a full practice on Friday and is cleared to play. He will play against the Steelers.

The speedy back has become one of the interesting wrinkles the Bills can throw at teams now. Johnson’s explosiveness and receiving ability make him an intriguing player to work into a gameplan, and he has game-breaking speed to hit the home run if he gets into space. So, the news that he will play is welcome news for the Bills, who are dealing with many injuries.

Cornerback Rasul Douglas and linebacker Tyrel Dodson are both questionable, according to the club’s final injury report. Head coach Sean McDermott had already ruled out wide receiver Gabe Davis and safety Taylor Rapp for the game earlier on Friday.

Douglas has been Buffalo’s starting right cornerback, opposite Christian Benford. He suffered a knee injury during the Bills’ Week 18 win over the Miami Dolphins, and promised to play through it.

Dodson’s injury would leave the Bills critically short of depth at linebacker if he’s unable to play. Dodson was also injured against the Dolphins last week, but unlike Douglas, was able to practice this week. Dodson was limited for Wednesday’s walk-through, did not practice on Thursday, and was limited again on Friday.

Either way, the Steelers and Bills will play in a physical game with conditions that will test the will of both teams.