It doesn’t look like the Bills will have running back C.J. Spiller for Week Four, but that might not mean that Tashard Choice will be their only backfield choice.
During a radio interview with WGR Sportsradio 550 in Buffalo on Monday, Bills coach Chan Gailey said that he expects to see running back Fred Jackson back on the practice field this week. Jackson was diagnosed with a knee sprain after the opening loss to the Jets that was originally expected to keep him out three-to-eight weeks. Jackson has been making quick progress, though, and Gailey said he had a chance to return against the Patriots.
“Fred will practice this week,” Gailey said, via the Bills website. “I don’t know if it’ll be Wednesday or Thursday, but he should practice some time this week. His recovery has been amazing.”
Spiller is expected to miss a week or two with a sprained shoulder he suffered early in Sunday’s win over the Browns. Choice ran for 91 yards on 20 carries after Spiller left the game, remaining efficient while losing the explosiveness that helped them to a 14-0 lead. They’ll probably need to make a few more big plays against the Patriots this week, which would make a healthy Jackson a welcome addition to the lineup.