Bills Linebacker Terrel Bernard Undergoes Ankle Surgery

The 27-year-old linebacker revealed gruesome images of his recovery process on social media.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Buffalo Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard has undergone surgery to repair an ankle injury that has plagued him over the past two seasons. Bernard, who signed a four-year, $50 million contract extension last spring, shared images on social media showing the extensive scarring and recovery process from his latest procedure.

Why it matters

Durability has been a major concern for Bernard, who has missed significant time due to various injuries including elbow, ankle and calf issues. With the Bills transitioning to a new defensive scheme under coordinator Jim Leonhard, Bernard's roster spot may be in jeopardy if he is unable to stay healthy and contribute consistently.

The details

Bernard originally sprained his ankle during a routine play against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 16 of the 2023 season. The injury lingered, and in 2025 he appeared in just 12 games as he continued to battle the ankle issue along with elbow and calf problems. The latest surgery was the latest step in Bernard's recovery process.

  • In December 2023, Bernard sprained his ankle during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
  • In 2025, Bernard missed 5 games due to the ankle injury, as well as elbow and calf issues.

The players

Terrel Bernard

A 27-year-old linebacker for the Buffalo Bills who has struggled with injuries over the past two seasons.

Jim Leonhard

The new defensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills, who is implementing a new defensive scheme that could impact Bernard's role on the team.

Leo Chenal

A free agent linebacker from the Kansas City Chiefs who previously played under Jim Leonhard at the University of Wisconsin, and is a potential target for the Bills.

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What they’re saying

“Surgery to repair Terrel Bernard's ankle was the latest step in an injury that dates back to December 2023. Bernard had originally sprained the ankle during a routine play against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week16 [of that season].”

— Dr. Kyle Trimble, Banged Up Bills (Twitter)

What’s next

The Bills will have to decide whether to keep Bernard on the roster as they transition to a new defensive scheme under Jim Leonhard. The team has been linked to free agent linebacker Leo Chenal, who previously played under Leonhard at Wisconsin, as well as several impressive draft prospects at the position.

The takeaway

Terrel Bernard's ongoing injury issues raise questions about his long-term future with the Bills, especially as the team looks to overhaul its defense. His ability to stay healthy and adapt to the new scheme will be crucial in determining whether he remains a key part of Buffalo's plans going forward.