The Buffalo Bills have an opportunity to get star defensive tackle Ed Oliver back for the divisional round game against the Denver Broncos on Saturday.
Oliver suffered a torn biceps injury all the way back in Week 8, which figured to end his season entirely.
However, there had been rumblings that a playoff return was possible, and now we are close to that being a reality after Oliver returned to practice this week.
"It's just a long time coming," Oliver said after returning to practice. "I kind of just stayed the course even when the tunnel seemed dark and the light at the end of the tunnel seemed so far away."
Oliver took part in all three sessions for the Bills, although he only practiced on a limited basis before drawing the questionable tag.
Here's the latest on what we know about Oliver's status for Saturday's postseason contest against the Broncos.
Is Ed Oliver playing today?
Yes, Oliver is expected to play on Saturday versus Denver, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. We'll get final confirmation an hour and a half before kickoff following the release of inactives.
Oliver was activated off injured reserve on Friday, which fully clears the way for him to suit up, but it remains to be seen if he'll be limited after so much time away.
"[Oliver] loves to play," coach Sean McDermott said Thursday. "There's a process that leads to playing, and he's worked hard at it. Had the setback, obviously, a few weeks ago with the knee, but he's attacked it head-on, and our medical staff the same way. So, both have done a good job."
Whether he's limited or not, just having Oliver on the field is a massive boost for the Bills' pass-rush, as well as the psyche of the team overall.
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