Matt Milano

Matthew Vincent Milano Bio

Matthew Vincent Milano is an American professional football linebacker for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Boston College Eagles. Drafted by the Bills in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL draft, Milano has become a central part of head coach Sean McDermott’s defense and is considered one of the greatest draft steals in Bills history. Milano was born on July 28, 1994, in Commack, New York, to parents Mike and Janet Milano. He has two siblings, Gina and Michael. Milano attended Dr. Phillips High School in Orlando, Florida, where he played as a defensive back for the Panthers football team. During his senior season, he was awarded Defensive Player of the Year, recording 100 tackles, including 18 tackles for loss and three sacks. He graduated in 2013 and was rated a three-star linebacker recruit by 247Sports and Rivals.com, ultimately committing to Boston College to play college football over offers from several other schools. Milano attended Boston College from 2013 to 2016, where he played under head coach Steve Addazio. He received the Westerman Family Flynn Fund Scholarship and began his collegiate career with a modest start, recording five tackles in his freshman season. Over the years, he progressed significantly, culminating in his senior year where he earned the William J. Flynn Most Valuable Player award after totaling 58 tackles, of which 41 were unassisted. Milano majored in applied psychology and human development during his time at Boston College. In 2017, the Buffalo Bills selected Milano in the fifth round (163rd overall) of the NFL draft. The pick used to draft him was given by the New England Patriots as compensation for signing restricted free agent running back Mike Gillislee. He was signed to a four-year contract worth $2.66 million, which included a signing bonus of $261,506. Throughout training camp, he competed for the starting weak side linebacker position and was named the backup to Ramon Humber at the start of the regular season. Milano earned his first career start on October 8, 2017, recording four combined tackles in a loss against the Cincinnati Bengals. In his second start, he made five combined tackles, two tackles for a loss, a pass deflection, and recorded his first career interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He finished his rookie season with 49 combined tackles, one interception, and a fumble recovery. In 2018, Milano recorded a sack, an interception, and a fumble recovery in a standout performance against the Minnesota Vikings, earning him the AFC Defensive Player of the Week award. However, he suffered a broken fibula later that season, which led to season-ending surgery. Milano returned from injury in 2019, achieving a career-high 100 combined tackles and contributing significantly to the Bills’ playoff run. In 2020, he faced another injury setback but still managed to make impactful plays in the postseason. Milano signed a four-year, $44 million contract extension with the Bills in March 2021. He continued to excel in the 2022 season, earning Pro Bowl honors and first-team All-Pro recognition. In 2023, he signed a two-year contract extension with the Bills, solidifying his place on the team through the 2026 season. However, he suffered a season-ending fractured leg injury in Week 5 against the Jaguars. Milano’s career statistics include impressive totals in tackles, sacks, interceptions, and defensive touchdowns, showcasing his impact on the field. As of 2025, he remains a key player for the Buffalo Bills, with expectations for his return to full strength following his injuries.

Matthew Vincent Milano Career

Early Career (2017-2018)

Milano began his professional career with the Buffalo Bills after being drafted in 2017. His first notable work came during his rookie season, where he quickly established himself as a reliable linebacker. He earned recognition for his performances, including a standout game against the Minnesota Vikings in 2018, where he showcased his skills with a sack, an interception, and a fumble recovery. Milano finished his second season with 78 combined tackles and three interceptions, demonstrating his growth as a player.

Breakthrough (2019-2022)

Milano’s breakthrough came in the 2019 season when he recorded a career-high 100 combined tackles. His performance helped the Bills return to the playoffs, where he had a game-high 12 tackles in a Wild Card Round matchup against the Houston Texans. In 2021, he signed a lucrative contract extension, solidifying his role as a key player on the team. The 2022 season marked a high point in Milano’s career, as he earned Pro Bowl honors and was named a first-team All-Pro. He recorded significant statistics, including 99 total tackles and three interceptions, further establishing his reputation as one of the top linebackers in the league.

Notable Works and Milestones

Milano’s signature work includes his impressive performances during the 2022 season, where he was recognized as a first-team All-Pro and selected for the Pro Bowl. His ability to make game-changing plays, such as interceptions and defensive touchdowns, has made him a standout player for the Buffalo Bills.

Matthew Vincent Milano Award Nominations

Throughout his career, Matthew Vincent Milano has received several nominations, including recognition for his outstanding performances in the Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections.