Buffalo Bills LB Matt Milano has lost a step, but still has skills

Selected in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, linebacker Matt Milano has quietly been one of the biggest draft successes for the modern era Buffalo Bills not named “Josh Allen.” That success though has been mixed with injuries.

As a result of that, Milano will able to test free agency for the first time in his career. Once lauded for his sideline-to-sideline ability, what remains of Milano’s physical capability? Should the Bills try to keep him town?

The Film

A lot of defensive pieces are a question mark this season with new coaches all over that side of the ball. On one hand, Milano’s experience might help him learn a new system rapidly. On the other hand, having to adjust to new staff may exacerbate athleticism shortcomings due to injury.

Ultimately, my verdict on Milano is that I suspect free agency is likely to result in a price tag for the linebacker that Buffalo shouldn’t bite on. Milano can still play and play well, but his injuries are a twofold concern.

Milano seems to lack burst, speed, and power from his heyday. Counting on him staying healthy seems like a bit of a gamble too.

I don’t think he’s completely fallen off a cliff and finding a replacement at his level isn’t a guarantee by any means. What I’m getting at is that I also don’t believe he’s at so much of a higher level than other players to justify a bidding war.

The X-factor for Milano is that he took a surprisingly team-friendly deal before. The enigmatic linebacker may value his current home and team enough to make it happen again. I’m not opposed to that by any means.

Play notes:

Milano’s experience and timing are shown off here, with him shooting between two blockers to make a tackle for a loss (which I consider to be just as significant as a sack).
If anyone ever questions his effort, laugh at them. Milano still gives it his all. This block isn’t just a quick reaction from him, but one done with force.
This is a great shoestring tackle. That said, a few years ago Milano is making the tackle earlier and more authoritatively. It’s possible in his prime this is a pass defended instead.
Timing and anticipation can make up for a lot of flaws.
Milano has some trouble disengaging from the tackle, which showed up a few times in my film watch.
Veteran smarts help this play out, but it should be noted the cut back is pretty athletic to make this tackle. This is what I mean when I say Milano hasn’t fallen off a cliff.