The Buffalo Bills are in a difficult place, as they have the quality contributors to compete but youth at skill positions that could hold them back. If there is one reason for excitement, it's the fact that Buffalo's defense has legitimate star power.
Unfortunately, two-time All-Pro free safety Jairus Byrd is now facing a foot injury, per Tim Graham of The Buffalo News.
Doug Marrone says Jairus Byrd is having injured foot evaluated by same doctor who gave Mario Williams second opinion.
— Tim Graham (@ByTimGraham) August 30, 2013
Byrd missed Buffalo's Week 4 preseason game against the Detroit Lions to get the injury evaluated.
Byrd, 26, played in all 16 games during the 2012 regular season, picking up 76 tackles with five interceptions, four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. The four-year veteran has maintained good health throughout his career, missing two total games thus far.
Unfortunately, Buffalo's top defensive play maker now has a sense of uncertainty.
This is a continuation of a tumultuous offseason for Byrd, as the Bills surprisingly slapped him with the franchise tag, per ESPN. Since then, the two sides have been at odds and Ed Werder of ESPN has reported that Byrd may request a trade.
If his foot issues continue to linger, his request for a trade may be of little relevance.
Losing Byrd would be a critical blow for a team that could potentially ride he and Mario Williams to a high-quality defensive season. The offensive additions have caught headlines, but Byrd and Williams lead a defense with players such as Marcell Dareus and Stephon Gilmore ready to shine.
Unfortunately, Gilmore will miss the next 6-to-8 weeks as he recovers from a fractured wrist, per NFL.com. Add Byrd's injury and the season is becoming all too familiar for Bills fans, as promise turns to doubt via injuries.
Check back with Bleacher Report for more updates on Byrd's health and potential return date.
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