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Frank Gore Jr. is back in the Buffalo Bills’ game-day plans after the team elevated him from the practice squad for Thursday night’s Week 2 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Wide receiver Greg Dortch was also elevated, giving Buffalo two additional offensive options for the primetime contest.
Frank Gore Jr. Receives Critical Elevation Against Detroit
The Bills announced the two practice squad elevations on September 17, 2026, ahead of the team’s home matchup with Detroit. The move allows both players to suit up for the game while remaining on Buffalo’s practice squad rather than occupying a permanent spot on the active roster.
- WR Greg Dortch
- RB Frank Gore Jr.
Thursday’s game is scheduled to begin at 8:15 p.m. and will be available on Prime Video. The matchup represents Buffalo’s first home game of the 2026 season and gives the Bills an opportunity to build on their Week 1 performance against the Houston Texans.
Gore Jr. Played a Meaningful Role in Week 1
Gore Jr. was also elevated for Buffalo’s season opener in Houston. According to the Bills, he played 11 offensive snaps at running back, the second-highest total among the team’s running backs during the game.
That workload suggests the young running back has already earned a measure of trust within Buffalo’s offensive rotation. His return for the Lions game provides the Bills with another option in the backfield, particularly as the coaching staff manages the workload among its running backs.
While an elevation does not guarantee a specific number of carries, Gore Jr.’s Week 1 involvement indicates that he could again contribute in offensive packages or provide depth behind Buffalo’s primary backs. His ability to step into the lineup without requiring a permanent roster move also gives the team flexibility on game day.
Greg Dortch Adds Special Teams Firepower
Dortch also made an impact during the opener. The wide receiver averaged 27.3 yards per kickoff return against the Texans, including a long return of 37 yards.
His return production gives Buffalo a potential spark in the kicking game and can help improve field position. Dortch’s role may extend beyond special teams, but his Week 1 numbers highlight the immediate value he can provide as a return specialist.
With both Dortch and Gore Jr. elevated, Buffalo is adding players who contributed in different ways during Week 1. Gore gives the offense extra running back depth, while Dortch offers an explosive return option and additional versatility at wide receiver.
What the Elevations Mean for the Bills
Practice squad elevations are often important roster-management tools during the NFL season. Teams can bring players up for a particular game, address matchup needs and preserve flexibility for future weeks. For Buffalo, the decision to elevate Gore Jr. for a second consecutive game shows that the coaching staff continues to view him as a useful part of the weekly plan.
The Lions matchup could test Buffalo’s ability to sustain drives and create favorable field position. Gore Jr.’s presence may help keep the backfield rotation fresh, while Dortch’s return ability could provide the Bills with an early advantage on special teams.
Neither elevation changes the team’s long-term roster structure, but both moves could have a noticeable impact on Thursday night’s contest. Buffalo will look to capitalize on its home-field advantage as it faces a Detroit team known for bringing physicality on both sides of the ball.
When Is the Bills-Lions Game?
The Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions are scheduled to kick off at 8:15 p.m. on Thursday night. The game will be available to viewers through Prime Video.
Is Frank Gore Jr. on the Bills’ Active Roster?
Gore Jr. was elevated from Buffalo’s practice squad for the game against Detroit. The move makes him eligible to play in the matchup without being permanently added to the active roster.
How Many Snaps Did Gore Jr. Play in Week 1?
Gore Jr. played 11 snaps at running back during Buffalo’s Week 1 game against the Houston Texans. That was the second-highest total among the Bills’ running backs.
What Did Greg Dortch Do in Week 1?
Dortch averaged 27.3 yards per kickoff return against Houston. His longest return covered 37 yards, giving Buffalo a strong special teams contribution in the season opener.
Why Are Practice Squad Elevations Important?
Elevations allow teams to add temporary game-day depth while maintaining roster flexibility. Players such as Gore Jr. and Dortch can contribute in specific roles without requiring a permanent roster transaction.
