The Buffalo Bills just made a big move on their practice squad, bringing back linebacker Shaq Thompson, and what’s wild is that it looks like he was picked over Matt Milano. This isn’t just a random signing, either. Clubs all over the league are locking down their practice squads, and a report from Buffalo News’ Jay Skurski broke the news that Thompson is heading back to Orchard Park. This is a veteran player returning to an organization where he just played a pretty solid season.
Thompson’s Impact and Playoff Experience
Thompson really played admirably for the Bills in 2025, which was his first year with the team after spending a long time in Carolina. He was out there for a significant chunk of defensive snaps, 42.4% last season, and he absolutely delivered. We’re talking 56 tackles, six tackles for loss, two pass breakups, one sack, and a forced fumble. The dude showed up when it mattered most too, snagging an interception against the Jaguars in the AFC Wild Card playoff game back in January, a game the Bills won 27-24. Across both of Buffalo’s playoff games that month, he notched 13 tackles and two tackles for loss. That kind of clutch performance and veteran savvy is something you just can’t buy, especially for a practice squad spot.
A Strategic Depth Play for Buffalo
Now at 32 years old, Thompson is officially part of Buffalo’s practice squad to provide some seriously experienced depth behind the current inside linebacker crew: Terrel Bernard, Dorian Williams, Kaleb Elarms-Orr, and Joe Andreessen. This is all happening within Jim Leonhard’s scheme, and it shows the team’s commitment to having battle-tested guys ready to step up. The most intriguing part about this whole thing has to be the apparent choice between Thompson and Matt Milano for that practice squad spot. Going with Thompson speaks volumes about what the coaching staff values right now. They’re clearly looking for a specific kind of experience and reliability as they round out their roster.
This move means the Bills are serious about their linebacker depth, prioritizing a familiar face with proven playoff experience. You gotta wonder if this bet on Thompson pays off big if injuries hit the starting group.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Buffalo Rumblings.
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