Few players in the NFL have had to overcome injuries like Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano has the past few years. The former first-team All-Pro has appeared in just nine games the last two seasons.
After suffering a significant leg injury in 2023, Milano played in just four games in 2024 due to a biceps tear. Those injuries led to the former Pro Bowler re-working his deal this offseason to not only take less money, but to shorten it, which will make him a free agent next offseason.
One analyst, Last Word on Sports’ Anthony Palacios, thinks it’s possible that the Bills move on from Milano entirely via trade. One of the possible landing spots Palacios suggested was the Carolina Panthers.
“Last season, the Panthers built a solid offense for quarterback Bryce Young, but they’re making moves to improve their defense,” Palacios wrote. “Tershawn Wharton is the most notable free-agent signing for the Panthers that will finally give some life to Derrick Brown in the defensive trenches. However, they need a new edge rusher since Jadeveon Clowney could retire soon, and Josey Jewell hasn’t been living up to expectations. Milano might not be the same, but it’s a band-aid until they find long-term stability elsewhere.”
The Panthers currently have Josey Jewell and Christian Rozeboom set to start next season, so the team could use another starting-quality linebacker. Milano would instantly check that box and offer an upgrade.
Milano is solid against the run, but he has made a name for himself in coverage. In his last near-full season in 2022, Milano posted a Pro Football Focus grade of 82.2 in coverage, which ranked seventh among inside linebackers. That makes him a good complement to Jewell, who excels as a run defender.
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When it comes to possible compensation, Milano would likely fetch a Day 3 pick for Buffalo. Despite his injury history, the Panthers would be wise to make a play for Milano at that price.
All that said, the Bills are highly unlikely to trade Milano with the team vying for a Super Bowl in 2025. Buffalo needs all hands on deck and Milano is a key cog in the defense when healthy.
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