Anthony Thomas' season is over after the Buffalo Bills placed the veteran running back on injured reserve Thursday with a torn calf muscle. The team might have rookie starter Marshawn Lynch back for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins, however. Thomas, the NFL rookie of the year in 2001, had missed one game after being hurt in a 36-14 loss at Jacksonville on Nov. 25. In his second season with Buffalo, Thomas was being used in third-down situations and as a backup to Lynch. Thomas had 36 carries for 89 yards and added 15 catches for 95 yards and a touchdown in 10 games, including two starts this year. He became the 13th Bills' player placed on IR this season, with the move coming as Buffalo (6-6) prepares to host the Dolphins (0-12). The good news is Lynch could be ready to return after missing the past three games with a sprained left ankle. Lynch practiced Thursday in full pads for the first time since he was hurt, leading Coach Dick Jauron to say he's "optimistic" Lynch will be ready to play.