CNN
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The Buffalo Bills will have to play their Super Bowl challenge without Micah Hyde, one of their best defensive backs who suffered a neck injury Monday against the season-ending Tennessee Titans.
Hyde’s agent, Jack Bechta, further confirmed the news Twitteradding that “we’re happily expecting a healthy return for #23 in 2023,” and the Bills officially placed the 31-year-old on injured reserve on Saturday.
After picking up the injury in the third quarter, Hyde initially walked off the field before being carted into the dressing room.
In the same game, Bills cornerback Dane Jackson was taken to the hospital in an ambulance after also suffering a neck injury. Buffalo announced Tuesday that he had been discharged from the hospital.
“[Hyde and cornerback Dane Jackson, who is also dealing with a neck injury] both seem to be moving around here or walking around or in the building,” coach Sean McDermott told ESPN on Friday.
“And they go about their business there and try to improve every day. Obviously this game won’t exist. Otherwise I have nothing more for you at this point. We’re just going to work with them on their cadence and timing at this point.”
Since joining the Bills as a free agent in 2017, Hyde has been named to two All-Pro teams and one Pro Bowl team, forming one of the NFL’s top safety duos alongside Jordan Poyer.
During that tenure, he has 14 interceptions, including a pick-six, 35 passes defended and 363 tackles, according to ESPN.
Several of Hyde’s teammates shared messages of support on Instagram with Stefon Diggs posting, “shake back 23,” Ed Oliver saying, “We’ll hold it down fa ya,” and quarterback Josh Allen, “Love ya 23. He’ll be back… ”
“Thank you for the love and support you have shown me and my family. It’s really unreal. Bill’s mafia, we love you! #23in23,” Hyde continued Twitter.
The Bills will next take to the field on Sunday when they face the Miami Dolphins.