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Bills' Davis Injury a Question Mark for AFC Divisional Playoff

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 5:47 GMT by Buffalo News
      Locales: New York, Florida, UNITED STATES

Buffalo, NY - January 31st, 2026 - The Buffalo Bills head into their crucial AFC Divisional playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs with a significant question mark hanging over the availability of wide receiver Gabe Davis. Davis sustained a knee injury during the Bills' hard-fought Wild Card victory over the Miami Dolphins, and his status remains uncertain as of today, Saturday, January 31st, 2026. The injury throws a wrench into Buffalo's offensive plans and places increased pressure on the remaining receiving corps.

Coach Sean McDermott addressed the media on Friday, offering a cautiously optimistic update: "He's making progress," McDermott stated. "It's a day-to-day thing." This guarded assessment suggests the Bills are taking a measured approach, prioritizing Davis's well-being while still holding out hope he can contribute on Sunday. However, the ambiguity leaves fantasy football owners and Bills fans alike on edge.

Receiver Isaiah McKenzie echoed this sentiment, adding a personal touch. "It's tough seeing him out there," McKenzie said. "We need him. But he's doing everything he can to be out there. It's his decision, too. He's got to be able to do it." McKenzie's words highlight both the team's reliance on Davis and the player's personal determination to be available, even if playing through discomfort.

Davis's potential absence would be a considerable blow to the Bills' offensive firepower. While his snap count had been trending downwards in recent weeks, as the Bills increasingly utilize a committee approach at wide receiver, his big-play ability remains a crucial component of their attack. In the Wild Card win, Davis demonstrated this, hauling in six receptions for 105 yards and a touchdown. He's a proven deep threat, capable of stretching the field and creating opportunities for other receivers.

The injury necessitates a potential shift in offensive strategy. Offensive Coordinator Joe Brady will likely focus more on Josh Allen's short and intermediate passing game, utilizing Stefon Diggs as the primary target and seeking to exploit mismatches with tight ends and running backs. However, the Chiefs' defense, renowned for its discipline and ability to limit explosive plays, will undoubtedly anticipate this adjustment and adjust accordingly.

If Davis is unable to play, Trent Sherfield is poised to see a significant increase in his playing time. Sherfield, a veteran receiver, has flashed potential throughout the season but has been primarily utilized in a rotational role. This presents both an opportunity and a challenge. He'll need to quickly adapt to increased responsibility and prove he can consistently make plays against a formidable Chiefs secondary. Other receivers, such as Khalil Shakir and Deonte Harty, could also see their roles expanded, adding an element of unpredictability to the Bills' offense.

Beyond the immediate impact on Sunday's game, Davis's injury raises longer-term questions about the Bills' receiving corps. The team has invested heavily in Diggs, and while he remains a top-tier receiver, the need for a reliable second option has been evident. The performance of Sherfield and others in Davis's absence will be closely scrutinized, potentially influencing the Bills' offseason priorities in free agency or the draft. Could the Bills look to add another veteran presence or a dynamic rookie receiver to provide depth and competition at the position?

The Bills' path to Super Bowl LXI runs through Kansas City, and overcoming the Chiefs will be a monumental task. The loss of a key player like Davis undoubtedly complicates matters. The team will need a collective effort from their entire offense, and the performance of players stepping up in Davis's place will be critical to their success. The AFC Divisional round promises to be a thrilling contest, and the status of Gabe Davis will be a key storyline to watch as kickoff approaches.