Buffalo Bills right tackle Spencer Brown disregarded his planned practice restrictions on Wednesday after returning from a back injury. Activated off the physically unable to perform list last Thursday, Brown was only expected to complete a limited number of reps during practice as part of his recovery. Instead, he pushed himself to nearly double the reps assigned, signaling his determination to regain full form despite ongoing back concerns.
Defying coach Aaron Kromer’s instructions to leave practice
Offensive line coach Aaron Kromer sought to remove Brown from practice early to prevent overexertion in the wake of his injury, but Brown firmly refused to leave the field. He completed approximately 20 to 30 reps instead of the 12 to 15 reps prescribed. Brown openly admitted to making a gesture toward Kromer to emphasize his intent to remain in practice, stating that he felt physically capable and eager to continue.
I was supposed to do like 12 to 15 reps and I think I ended up doing over 20, almost 30, And I gave ‘Krom’ the finger because he wanted to take me out and I was like, ‘I am not going out now. I feel fine.’ Got a little cardio in, but it was awesome to get back in there and in the huddle again.
—Spencer Brown, Buffalo Bills right tackle
The frustration of missing practice time
Brown detailed how the hardship of his back injury stemmed less from physical pain and more from being sidelined. Sitting out while teammates practiced was difficult mentally, as he missed the camaraderie and rhythm of the team preparing together. This mental toll underscored his urgency to regain practice participation fully and return to form.
It was brutal. And not so much from the back hurting, but the missing out and everything. Just sitting there and watching everybody else put the work in,
Brown shared.
The origin and history of Brown’s back problem
Brown experienced the back issue after pushing himself during lifting sessions, attempting to recapture the size and strength he had in college. He explained that this intensified effort caused a flare-up, which sits on top of a history of back problems dating back to a 2022 surgery. The Bills are hoping Brown avoids further setbacks as the 2025 season nears.
I wanted to kind of get back to my college ways. I was bigger and stronger when I was in college. I wanted to get back to that. So, I was pushing the envelope, and pushed a little too far,
Brown said.
Outlook for Brown and the Bills as season approaches
As a fifth-year veteran, Brown’s willingness to challenge his own limits demonstrates his commitment to contribute fully to the Bills’ offensive line. With the regular season fast approaching, his endurance and recovery will be critical to Buffalo’s success. Brown’s defiant attitude in practice reflects both his personal drive and the competitive environment shaped by coaches such as Aaron Kromer and offensive coordinator Joe Brady.