ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — In preparation for the upcoming AFC conference championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs, the Buffalo Bills announced on Friday that starting safety Taylor Rapp will not participate due to a hip injury. Additionally, starting cornerback Christian Benford’s status remains uncertain as he is listed as questionable.

Benford is currently in the concussion protocol after sustaining an injury during the closing moments of the Bills’ narrow 27-25 victory over the Baltimore Ravens last Sunday. He managed to practice in a limited capacity on both Wednesday and Thursday but was absent from Friday’s practice session due to a personal issue.

Rapp was carted off the field during the game against Baltimore and did not take part in any practices throughout the week. With his absence, the Bills are expected to rely on Cam Lewis and rookie Cole Bishop to fill the safety positions against the formidable Chiefs.

Buffalo also has the option to elevate veteran safety Kareem Jackson from their practice squad. Jackson, who has been with the team since summer, has seen action in two games this season. However, head coach Sean McDermott has confirmed that Micah Hyde, the Bills’ former starting safety who recently signed to the practice squad, will not be promoted to play.

On a positive note, linebacker Matt Milano has been cleared of any injury designation after being limited in practice earlier in the week due to a hamstring issue.

Another linebacker, Baylon Spector, has been listed as questionable; however, he needs to be activated from the injured reserve list to play. Spector has been sidelined for four games, including the playoffs, due to a calf injury.