Micah Hyde Injury: Why the Bills' FS Has a Chance to Return for Playoff Run

Bills Pro Bowl free safety Micah Hyde was placed on IR Saturday with a herniated disk that will require surgery.

Hyde will likely undergo an anterior cervical discectomy and fusion, with a typical recovery timeline of three-to-four months, according to our panel of doctors with past NFL experience.

While recovery from neck surgery is never linear, the Pro Football Docs believe Hyde has a chance to return for a potential Bills playoff run.

With almost four months to recover before the start of the NFL playoffs, Hyde's return for the playoffs cannot be ruled out.

In January 2019, Leighton Vander Esch underwent the same surgery and return for the start of training camp.

Once he's ready to return, Hyde will not have any increased risk of spinal injury. However, if Hyde suffers a second herniated disk his career could be in jeopardy.

Hyde's agent, Jack Bechta, made the announcement on Twitter Saturday morning.

For now, the Bills will have to get by with Damar Hamlin at free safety. Strong safety Jordan Poyer missed practice time with a foot injury this week, but will likely suit up against the Dolphins.

The Bills are favored by 5.5 points against the Dolphins in Week 3 and the over/under is 52.5.

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