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Josh Allen

Joshua Patrick Allen (born May 21, 1996) is an American professional football for the of the (). Known for his exceptional arm strength, rushing ability, and versatility as a , Allen has transformed the Bills into perennial playoff contenders since being drafted in 2018, leading them to seven postseason victories without a appearance as of the 2025 season. In 2024, he won the Award, becoming the first Bills quarterback to earn the honor, after recording five consecutive seasons with at least 40 total touchdowns—the first player in league history to achieve this feat. Born in , to Joel and LaVonne Allen, he grew up in a small farming community as the second of four siblings and initially played multiple sports, including and , at Firebaugh High School. Despite limited recruiting interest after high school, Allen attended in 2014 before transferring to the , where he played from 2015 to 2017 and earned a in . Selected by the Bills as the seventh overall pick in the first round of the , he signed a six-year, $330 million contract extension in 2025, committing to the team through the 2030 season. Throughout his career, Allen has earned three Pro Bowl selections (2020, 2022, 2025) and a second-team All-Pro honor in 2020, while finishing second in MVP voting that year after setting Bills single-season records with 4,544 passing yards, 37 passing touchdowns, and a 107.2 passer rating. In 2023, he led the NFL with 44 total touchdowns and 4,830 total yards, establishing a league record with 11 games featuring both a passing and rushing touchdown. Allen's playoff performances include the highest passer rating in NFL postseason history (149.0 in 2021, minimum 50 attempts) and a 157.6 passer rating against the New England Patriots in January 2022, the fifth-highest in NFL postseason history. Off the field, he is an avid golfer, part-owner of OnCore Golf, and has invested in a family pistachio farm; he married actress Hailee Steinfeld in 2025.

Early life and education

Early life

Joshua Patrick Allen was born on May 21, 1996, in , a small farming community in the Central Valley. He is the second of four children born to Joel and LaVonne Allen, who owned and operated a third-generation spanning approximately 2,000 acres, primarily growing , , and cantaloupes. His older sister, Nicala, is the eldest sibling, followed by Allen, his younger brother Jason (born one year later), and youngest sister Makenna. The Allen family was deeply rooted in the local community, with Joel managing the farm's daily operations and LaVonne contributing to the household while emphasizing family values and support. Growing up on the instilled a strong in Allen from an early age, as he and his siblings regularly assisted with labor-intensive tasks such as weeding fields, digging ditches, moving pipes, and driving tractors. These experiences, combined with the rural environment, fostered resilience and determination in the young Allen, who often balanced farm chores with recreational activities on the property, including a backyard and built by his father. His parents and siblings played a pivotal role in shaping his competitive spirit, with in particular serving as a frequent athletic rival in informal games that honed their physical toughness. Allen's initial interests in emerged during his childhood through participation in local leagues and family play, where he explored , , , and . These early exposures, supported by his family's encouragement, laid the foundation for his athletic development amid the demands of farm life. By his pre-teen years, this blend of hard work and play had cultivated a focused mindset that carried into organized high .

High school career

Allen attended Firebaugh High School in , a small rural school serving a community of around 8,000 residents with an enrollment of approximately 600 students during his time there. He was a standout multi-sport , competing in , , and , which allowed him to develop his athleticism across disciplines. In , Allen began his career as a before transitioning to at the start of his junior year in the 2012 season, where he quickly showcased his arm strength and leadership. Over his junior and senior seasons, he led the Firebaugh Eagles to notable success, including a 10-2 regular season record in 2013 and an appearance in the Division V championship game, which they lost 47-35 to Farmersville. His senior year performance was particularly impressive, with 3,061 passing yards, 33 touchdowns, and just five interceptions on a 66.1% completion rate, helping the team achieve a school-record 10 wins. Allen's height of 6 feet 5 inches proved advantageous in , where he contributed significantly on the boards as a forward, aiding his team's efforts in the West Sierra League. In , he played as a and during his senior year, batting .298 with 31 hits, 32 runs scored, and 17 RBIs over 28 games. Despite these accomplishments, Allen faced significant challenges, as major programs overlooked him due to Firebaugh's small size and remote location; he graduated in without any Division I scholarship offers and drew only limited interest from smaller schools. His family's encouragement played a key role in sustaining his dedication to sports amid these obstacles.

College career

Reedley College

After graduating from Firebaugh High School without any Division I scholarship offers due to limited recruitment visibility, Josh Allen enrolled at in , in 2014 to continue his football career. Upon arrival, Allen faced initial challenges adapting to the college level, particularly with his throwing mechanics and accuracy, as well as starting opportunities on the team; he worked closely with quarterbacks coach and Ernie Rodriguez to refine his footwork and offensive fundamentals. As a , Allen prioritized physical conditioning through weight training and nutrition, gaining about 30 pounds to bulk up to 215 pounds, which bolstered his durability as a . In the 2014 season, he started 10 games, completing 127 of 259 passes for 2,055 yards with 26 touchdowns and 5 interceptions, while adding 660 rushing yards and 10 rushing touchdowns; these efforts contributed to a 4–6 overall record, including a 3–3 conference record. Allen's time at Reedley marked key progress in his arm strength—showcasing a powerful, NFL-caliber —and on-field , which helped him emerge from obscurity and attract college scouts. To secure further opportunities, he emailed over 1,000 coaches across FBS programs, ultimately earning an offer from the after their staff scouted him during a visit for another Reedley player.

Wyoming

Allen transferred to the University of Wyoming from Reedley College ahead of the 2015 season, where he redshirted before assuming an initial backup role behind quarterback Cameron Coffman in 2016. Coffman's knee injury in the season opener against Northern Illinois thrust Allen into the starting lineup, where he remained for the rest of the year, appearing in all 14 games. In that debut season as a full-time starter, Allen completed 209 of 373 passes for 3,203 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, while adding 523 rushing yards and 7 touchdowns on 142 carries, helping lead the Cowboys to an 8-6 record and a Mountain West Mountain Division title. He earned second-team All-Mountain West honors in 2016. His dual-threat ability was evident in key victories, including a 30–28 upset over No. 13 Boise State, where he threw for 274 yards and 3 touchdowns while rushing for 74 yards. Entering 2017 as the unquestioned starter and team , Allen guided Wyoming through an 8-5 campaign, finishing second in the Mountain West Mountain Division despite missing the final two regular-season games due to a injury sustained against . He earned honorable mention All-Mountain West honors in 2017 and was a two-time team . He started all 11 games he appeared in, passing for 1,812 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions on 152 completions out of 270 attempts, complemented by 204 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns on 92 carries. Notable performances included a career-high 4 passing touchdowns in a 42-3 rout of , earning him Mountain West Offensive Player of the Week honors, and game-winning drives in close wins over Hawai'i and Colorado State that showcased his leadership under pressure. Allen's arm strength was a standout trait, allowing him to deliver throws exceeding 60 yards with accuracy during warmups and games, drawing early scout attention. Allen returned from injury for the against on December 22, 2017, where he completed 11 of 19 passes for 154 yards and 3 touchdowns with no interceptions, adding 8 rushes for minimal yardage in a 37-14 victory that capped the season. His efficient performance, including three first-quarter touchdown strikes, earned him honors for the game and marked a strong close to his tenure before declaring for the .

College statistics

Josh Allen's college career statistics reflect his dual-threat capabilities as a quarterback, with notable production in both passing and rushing across junior college and FBS levels.

Passing statistics

YearSchoolGamesCompletions/AttemptsCompletion %YardsTouchdownsInterceptionsPasser Rating
2014Reedley10127/25949.02,055265101.4
2015Wyoming24/666.75100138.1
2016Wyoming14209/37356.03,2032815144.9
2017Wyoming11152/27056.31,812166127.8
Career totals (passing): 492 completions on 908 attempts (54.2%), 7,121 yards, 70 touchdowns, 26 interceptions, 129.5 passer rating.

Rushing statistics

YearSchoolGamesCarriesYardsTouchdowns
2014Reedley1012066010
2015Wyoming23400
2016Wyoming141425237
2017Wyoming11922045
Career totals (rushing): 357 carries, 1,427 yards, 22 touchdowns. Allen recorded no notable receiving statistics during his college career. These figures highlight the disparity in competition: Reedley competed in the NJCAA at the level, where Allen posted higher per-game averages in a less structured environment, while at in the FBS (), he adapted to increased defensive complexity over more games.

Professional career

Pre-draft

Allen participated in the 2018 in , where he recorded a 4.75-second and a 33.5-inch , both solid marks for a of his 6-foot-5 frame. His arm strength demonstrations particularly stood out, as he threw a deep ball nearly 70 yards during drills, drawing praise from scouts for his rare velocity and power inherited from his college performances. At Wyoming's Pro Day on March 23, 2018, Allen threw to former receivers, showcasing improved consistency on deep passes exceeding 80 yards while meeting with representatives from teams including the and . His workouts emphasized his elite arm talent, though concerns persisted about his and . Entering the , Allen was projected as a mid-round prospect due to accuracy issues, with a career completion percentage of 56.2 percent that highlighted his raw potential over polish. On April 26, 2018, the traded up from the 12th to the 7th overall pick with the , selecting Allen in the first round. He signed a four-year rookie contract worth $21.443 million, fully guaranteed at $21.443 million, including a $13.486 million .

2018 season

Allen entered the 2018 NFL season as a rookie competing for playing time behind and AJ McCarron following a strong preseason showing. McCarron suffered a season-ending collarbone injury during preseason Week 2, leaving Peterman as the initial starter and Allen as the primary backup. Peterman struggled in the first two weeks, throwing nine interceptions across losses to the and , leading to his benching after Week 2. Allen made his NFL debut as the starter in Week 3 against the Minnesota Vikings, completing 15 of 25 passes for 95 yards with no touchdown passes and two interceptions, while rushing seven times for 52 yards and two s to secure a 27-6 upset victory. He retained the starting role for Weeks 4 through 6, recording his first passing in Week 4 against (a 21-yard strike to ). However, an sprain suffered in Week 6 against the Texans sidelined him for Weeks 7 through 9, during which Peterman and saw action in losses. Allen returned to start the final eight games, helping the Bills finish with a 6-10 record. Over 12 appearances (11 starts), Allen completed 169 of 320 passes for 2,074 yards, 10 touchdowns, and 12 at a 52.8% completion rate, highlighting early accuracy and decision-making struggles that were widely noted as areas for development. His rushing ability emerged as a strength, with 89 carries for 631 yards and a league-leading eight rushing touchdowns among quarterbacks, setting an record for most rushing scores by a QB. Challenges included multiple benchings due to performance and injury, as well as a high interception rate, but his mobility contributed to several key wins. Notable performances included a Week 10 rout of the (204 passing yards, two s, 43 rushing yards, one rushing in a 41-10 win) and a season finale against the (206 passing yards, two s, 49 rushing yards, two rushing s in a 42-17 victory). In Week 11 versus the , Allen rushed for a career-high 99 yards and a en route to a 24-21 comeback win, showcasing his dual-threat potential despite completing just 8 of 19 passes for 160 yards and two s. These efforts underscored Allen's raw athleticism amid passing inconsistencies during his rookie year.

2019 season

In his second season, Josh Allen served as the full-time starting for the , appearing in all 16 games and starting each one. Building on the rushing foundation established during his rookie year, Allen expanded his role as a dual-threat leader, demonstrating growth in his passing efficiency under head coach Sean McDermott's guidance. McDermott and general manager noted Allen's improved statistical output across nearly every category, crediting his increased poise and decision-making for elevating the offense from the prior year's struggles. Allen completed 271 of 461 passes for 3,089 yards, achieving a 58.8% completion percentage with 20 and 9 interceptions, resulting in an 85.3 —marked improvements from his debut. On the ground, he rushed 109 times for 510 yards and 9 , maintaining his mobility as a key weapon while reducing turnovers. He showed particular progress in deep ball accuracy, connecting on longer throws more consistently to stretch defenses, though occasional misfires highlighted areas for further refinement. Representative examples of his development included a 266-yard passing effort with two rushing against the in Week 10, a season-high in aerial yardage during a narrow 19-16 defeat; a three- passing performance (256 yards) plus a rushing score versus the in Week 11, fueling a 37-20 rout; and 253 passing yards with another rushing in a Week 2 victory over the . Allen's maturation contributed to a Bills turnaround, as the team compiled a 10-6 record and clinched the AFC's No. 6 wild-card seed—their first playoff berth since the 2017 season. With Allen under center for 15 full starts, went 10-5, securing second place in the behind a balanced attack that leaned on his versatility to end an 18-year postseason drought.

2019–20 postseason

In the , the earned the AFC's No. 5 seed with a 10–6 regular-season record and faced the No. 4 Texans in the Wild Card round on January 4, 2020, at . This marked Josh Allen's first career postseason start as the Bills' . Allen opened the game strongly, leading a 10-play, 75-yard drive capped by his own 16-yard reception on a from wide receiver , giving a 7–0 lead. He added a 42-yard rushing gain on that opening possession, showcasing his mobility, and the Bills built a commanding 16–0 halftime advantage behind field goals from . In the first half, Allen appeared poised under playoff pressure, completing several precise passes and effectively managing the offense against a struggling Texans . The second half saw mount a comeback, scoring 19 unanswered points to take a 19–16 lead with 4:37 remaining, highlighted by a 20-yard touchdown run from and a 5-yard touchdown to . Allen responded by driving the Bills 54 yards in nine plays, setting up Hauschka's game-tying 28-yard with 20 seconds left to force . However, in , a 14-yard penalty on Allen during Houston's ensuing drive pushed the Bills out of range, and the Texans secured the 22–19 victory with a 28-yard from Ka'imi Fairbairn. For the game, Allen completed 24 of 46 passes for 264 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions, while rushing nine times for 92 yards, including his long run. Despite the loss and some late-game struggles, including the costly penalty, Allen's debut demonstrated resilience in his first exposure to postseason intensity, contributing to Buffalo's offensive output of 358 total yards. The defeat ended the Bills' season one game short of the divisional round but represented their first playoff appearance in the Allen era and signaled the start of sustained contention, following a 17-year postseason drought that had lasted since their 1999 wild-card loss to the . Buffalo's last playoff victory had come in the 1995 season.

2020 season

In 2020, Josh Allen experienced a breakout third season as the Buffalo Bills' starting quarterback, establishing himself as an MVP-caliber player with elite passing efficiency and dual-threat capabilities. He completed 69.2% of his passes for 4,544 yards, 37 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions, marking career highs in completion percentage and touchdowns while demonstrating significant growth from his 52.8% completion rate as a rookie in 2018. Additionally, Allen rushed 102 times for 421 yards and 8 touchdowns, contributing to a balanced offensive attack that propelled the Bills to a 13-3 record and their first AFC East division title since 1995. Key highlights included a dominant performance in Week 3 against the , where Allen threw for 417 yards and 4 passing touchdowns while adding 1 rushing touchdown for 5 total scores in a 31-28 victory. He achieved 300 or more passing yards in six games throughout the season, showcasing his ability to elevate the offense in high-volume passing scenarios. Allen's play earned him his first selection, recognizing his leadership in guiding the Bills to their best regular-season mark in over two decades. Allen’s development was evident in his enhanced pocket presence and footwork, refined through offseason work with quarterback coach on mechanics and base stability, allowing him to process reads more efficiently under pressure. His chemistry with newly acquired flourished despite a compressed preparation period, as Diggs hauled in 127 receptions for 1,535 yards and 8 touchdowns, forming one of the league's most productive quarterback-receiver duos. These improvements built on prior accuracy gains, transforming Allen from a raw talent into a precise distributor capable of sustaining drives. The season presented challenges from the , which limited in-person practices and forced a virtual offseason, hindering team cohesion and physical preparation. Despite these disruptions, Allen remained durable, starting all 16 games without missing time due to injury, though the irregular schedule tested his adaptability amid broader league postponements and outbreaks affecting opponents.

2020–21 postseason

In the , the , led by quarterback Josh Allen in his form from the regular season, advanced to the for the first time since the 1993 season. Seeded second in the after a 13–3 regular season, the Bills hosted their first home playoff game since 1996. The Bills opened the postseason with a 27–24 victory over the seventh-seeded in the Wild Card round on January 9, 2021, marking their first playoff win since December 30, 1995, and snapping a six-game postseason . Allen delivered an efficient performance, completing 26 of 35 passes for 324 yards and two with no interceptions, while adding 54 rushing yards on 11 carries, including a 5-yard run that proved decisive late in the game. His dual-threat ability helped Buffalo overcome a late Colts rally, with the defense sealing the win by forcing a at the goal line. In the Divisional round on January 16, 2021, the Bills dominated the third-seeded 17–3, advancing to the conference title game with a stout defensive effort that limited to just 83 rushing yards despite Lamar Jackson's presence. Allen went 23 of 37 for 206 yards and one touchdown pass to , avoiding interceptions despite two s, and contributed 3 rushing yards on seven carries. A key moment came in the fourth quarter when Allen fumbled on a by , but the Bills recovered, preventing any momentum shift in a game highlighted by Taron Johnson's 101-yard interception return for a touchdown. The Bills' playoff run ended in the on January 24, 2021, with a 38–24 loss to the defending champion at . Allen completed 28 of 48 passes for 287 yards, two , and one , while rushing for a game-high 88 yards on seven carries, but the Chiefs' late surge, powered by , overwhelmed Buffalo's defense. Despite the defeat, Allen's postseason totals showcased his growth, with 817 passing yards, five passes, and 145 rushing yards across three games.

2021 season

In 2021, Josh Allen built upon his breakout performance from the previous year, solidifying his status as a premier in the . He appeared in all 17 games, completing 409 of 646 passes for 4,407 yards, 36 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions, achieving a 63.3% completion rate and a 92.2 . Complementing his passing prowess, Allen rushed 89 times for a career-high 763 yards and 6 touchdowns, showcasing enhanced versatility in Buffalo's offensive scheme. His overall production earned him a second consecutive selection. Notable performances highlighted Allen's command of the offense, including a Week 4 matchup against the Washington Football Team where he threw for 358 yards and 4 touchdowns while adding a 1-yard rushing score, powering a 43-21 Bills victory and earning him AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Another standout game came in Week 5 against the Kansas City Chiefs, as Allen passed for 315 yards and 3 touchdowns to go with a 4-yard rushing touchdown, orchestrating a decisive 38-20 road win that avenged a prior playoff defeat. Under Allen's leadership, the Buffalo Bills compiled an 11-6 regular-season record, securing back-to-back AFC East titles and the No. 3 seed in the AFC playoffs. Off the field, Allen's value to the franchise was affirmed on August 6, 2021, when he agreed to a six-year, $258 million contract extension with the Bills, including $150 million guaranteed, that runs through the 2028 season.

2021–22 postseason

As the AFC's No. 3 seed with an 11–6 regular-season record, the Buffalo Bills hosted the No. 6 seed New England Patriots in the wild card round on January 15, 2022, at Highmark Stadium. Josh Allen delivered a dominant performance, completing 21 of 25 passes for 308 yards and five touchdowns with no interceptions, achieving a passer rating of 157.6—his highest in a playoff game to that point. He also rushed five times for 66 yards, showcasing his dual-threat ability that had been evident during the regular season. The Bills routed the Patriots 47–17, with Allen's five touchdown passes marking a playoff career high and contributing to one of the most lopsided wild card victories in franchise history. Advancing to the divisional round, the Bills traveled to face the No. 2 seed Kansas City Chiefs on January 23, 2022, at Arrowhead Stadium in a highly anticipated matchup featuring Allen against Patrick Mahomes. Allen went 27 of 37 for 329 passing yards and four touchdowns, again without an interception, while adding 68 rushing yards on 11 carries. The game was a thrilling, high-scoring affair that lived up to its billing as one of the NFL's greatest playoff shootouts, with the teams combining for 78 points. Buffalo led 34–31 late in the fourth quarter, but Kansas City rallied for a touchdown to take a 38–34 lead with 2:42 remaining; Allen then orchestrated a 15-play, 75-yard drive to tie the score at 36–36 with a 25-yard touchdown pass to Stefon Diggs and an extra point, leaving just 13 seconds on the clock. In overtime, the Chiefs drove 46 yards for a go-ahead touchdown on their first possession, securing a 42–36 victory after the Bills' ensuing drive ended in a failed fourth-down attempt. Allen's resilient play kept Buffalo competitive throughout, but the loss ended their season one win shy of the AFC Championship Game.

2022 season

In the 2022 season, Josh Allen guided the to a 13-3 regular-season record, securing the title and the No. 2 seed in the conference, while earning his second selection. Playing through a partially torn (UCL) in his throwing elbow that he sustained during Week 6, Allen appeared in all 17 games, demonstrating notable . He completed 359 of 567 passes for 4,283 yards with 35 touchdowns and 14 interceptions, posting a 63.3% completion rate and a 96.6 . On the ground, Allen rushed 124 times for 762 yards and seven touchdowns, underscoring his dual-threat capability. Allen produced several standout performances amid the Bills' dominant campaign. In Week 5, he set a career high with 424 passing yards and four touchdowns in a 38-3 rout of the . The next week, he followed with 329 yards and three touchdowns in a 24-20 road win over the , marking back-to-back 300-yard games. Later, in Week 14, Allen threw for 304 yards and four touchdowns—tying a franchise record—in a 32-29 comeback victory against the during a heavy snowfall. These efforts contributed to the Bills ranking second in the in scoring offense with 28.4 points per game. The elbow injury, which also involved related and muscle damage, lingered through the second half of the season and into the but did not sideline Allen, allowing to maintain its elite standing without a taking over. During the year, Allen reached the milestone of career passing yards, a mark he surpassed in early after accumulating over 4,000 yards in the season alone.

2022–23 postseason

As the AFC's No. 2 seed, the Buffalo Bills earned a first-round bye in the 2022–23 NFL playoffs after finishing the regular season with a 13–3 record. Their postseason run ended abruptly in the Divisional Round against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 22, 2023, at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. The Bills lost 27–10, marking their first home playoff defeat since January 4, 1997. Josh Allen completed 24 of 46 passes for 186 yards, with no touchdowns and two interceptions, while adding 52 rushing yards on 13 carries. Early in the game, Buffalo turned the ball over on downs after a failed fourth-down attempt near midfield, stalling their opening drive. Allen's first interception came in the second quarter on a tipped pass intercepted by Bengals safety Vonn Bell, setting up Cincinnati's first touchdown, while his second pick in the fourth quarter further sealed the Bills' fate. The game was played in mild conditions, with the Bengals' defense limiting Buffalo's explosive plays and contributing to a disjointed performance despite Allen's mobility keeping drives alive at times. This loss concluded a season of high expectations for Buffalo, abruptly ending their bid for a deep playoff run.

2023 season

In the 2023 season, Josh Allen led the to an 11-6 regular season record, securing their fourth consecutive division title. Allen appeared in all 17 games, passing for 4,306 yards with 29 touchdowns and a career-high 18 interceptions on 385 completions out of 579 attempts for a 66.5% completion rate. His performance earned him fifth place in voting for the award. Allen's season was marked by challenges, including a six-game streak of throwing at least one from Weeks 8 through 13, during which he accounted for nine of his total picks. Despite these turnovers, he rebounded strongly in the latter part of the year, throwing only four interceptions over the final eight games while contributing to the Bills' six-game to close the . Allen managed minor ailments throughout the year without missing time, building on his established reputation as a . On the ground, Allen rushed 111 times for 524 yards and a league-leading 15 touchdowns among quarterbacks, tying for the most rushing scores by a QB in history for a single season up to that point. Notable performances included a three-touchdown passing and one-touchdown rushing effort in a 24-18 win over the in Week 14, and two total touchdowns in a snowy 31-10 victory against the in Week 15. These efforts underscored his growing legacy as one of the league's premier rushing quarterbacks.

2023–24 postseason

In the Wild Card round, the Buffalo Bills hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers on January 15, 2024, in a game postponed from the previous day due to heavy lake-effect snow in Orchard Park, New York. Josh Allen completed 21 of 30 passes for 203 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions, while adding 74 rushing yards and a franchise playoff-record 52-yard touchdown run. The Bills dominated with a 31-17 victory, scoring 21 unanswered points in the first half behind Allen's dual-threat performance, securing their third consecutive playoff appearance. Advancing to the Divisional round, the Bills faced the on January 21, 2024, at in another high-stakes matchup. Allen went of for 186 passing yards and one , complemented by rushing yards on 12 carries and two rushing scores, including a 5-yard run that gave a temporary lead. Despite a gritty effort that kept the game close into the fourth quarter, the Bills fell 27-24 after kicker missed a 44-yard attempt with seconds remaining, allowing the Chiefs to respond with a game-winning 49-yard by . Allen's mobility proved pivotal, but the narrow defeat ended Buffalo's season and extended Kansas City's playoff dominance in the rivalry.

2024 season

In the 2024 season, Josh Allen delivered an MVP-caliber performance for the , leading the team to a 13-4 regular season record and the AFC's No. 2 seed. He completed 67.9% of his passes for 4,269 yards, 41 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions over 17 starts, showcasing elite efficiency and decision-making from the pocket. Complementing his aerial attack, Allen rushed 89 times for 612 yards and 12 touchdowns, contributing to a league-leading 53 total touchdowns that underscored his dual-threat dominance. A pivotal highlight came in Week 13 against the , where Allen threw for 5 passes in a 38-24 , capping a drive that propelled Buffalo's offense to new heights amid snowy conditions at Highmark Stadium. Despite sustaining a hand injury in Week 1 against the —fracturing his non-throwing hand on a scramble—Allen played through the pain without missing a snap, wearing a protective brace for the remainder of the campaign. His resilience was emblematic of the Bills' "everybody eats" offensive philosophy, which emphasized balanced distribution among receivers and a committee approach, fostering team-wide contributions rather than relying on a single star target. Allen's exceptional year positioned him as a leading contender for AFC Offensive Player of the Year, culminating in his selection as the on February 6, 2025, at the ceremony—his first such accolade and a testament to carrying 's offense to its most prolific regular-season output since 2020.

2024–25 postseason

As the secured the AFC's No. 2 seed with a 40-14 victory over the in Week 18, they earned a first-round bye in the , allowing Josh Allen additional rest following a regular season in which he earned NFL MVP honors. In the divisional round on January 19, 2025, the Bills hosted the , who had advanced as the No. 6 seed after defeating the Texans in the wild-card round. Allen delivered a dual-threat performance in a defensive battle, completing 16 of 22 passes for 127 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions while rushing 10 times for 20 yards and two scores, including 1-yard and 4-yard runs in the second quarter that helped build a 21-10 lead. The Bills' defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions of , securing a 27-25 victory after Baltimore's late was followed by a failed attempt. Allen's error-free passing and opportunistic rushing exemplified his form, as advanced to the Championship for the first time since 1993. The Bills traveled to Arrowhead Stadium for the AFC Championship Game against the No. 1-seeded Kansas City Chiefs on January 26, 2025, in a rematch of recent playoff clashes. Allen went 22 of 34 for 237 yards with two touchdown passes—a 34-yard strike to Mack Hollins in the second quarter and a 4-yard toss to Curtis Samuel in the fourth—while avoiding interceptions and adding 39 rushing yards on 11 carries, though he was sacked twice for a 10-yard loss. Buffalo led 20-17 at halftime and tied the game at 29 midway through the fourth quarter, but Kansas City responded with a field goal and a late touchdown drive capped by Patrick Mahomes, securing a 32-29 win in a high-scoring thriller. Allen's 104.7 passer rating marked another turnover-free outing, but the Bills fell short of their first Super Bowl appearance since the 1993 season, ending their postseason with a 1-1 record.

2025 season

On March 9, 2025, Josh Allen signed a six-year contract extension with the worth $330 million, including a league-record $250 million in guaranteed money, securing his position with the team through the 2030 season. This deal, which followed his 2024 award, made Allen the highest-paid in terms of total value at the time and reflected the Bills' commitment to building around his dual-threat abilities. The 2025 season began with a thrilling 41–40 comeback victory over the in Week 1 on , where Allen threw for 394 yards and two touchdowns while adding two rushing scores on 30 yards carried. His performance set a tone for the Bills' offensive versatility, blending efficient passing with his signature mobility despite early defensive lapses that allowed to lead by 17 points. Through ten games as of November 19, 2025, Allen had accumulated 2,139 passing yards with 15 touchdowns and five interceptions, alongside 662 rushing yards and eight rushing touchdowns, contributing to the Bills' 7–3 record and second place in the . This output highlighted his continued evolution as a , with the Bills incorporating minor offensive adjustments under coordinator Joe Brady to emphasize run-pass balance and reduce Allen's exposure compared to prior years. The team's start, including wins over playoff contenders, positioned them as contenders early in the season. In Week 9 on November 2 against the , Allen completed 23 of 26 passes for 273 yards and one touchdown, while rushing six times for 19 yards and two scores, powering a 28–21 that improved Buffalo's to 7–2. In Week 10 on November 9 at the , Allen completed 28 of 40 passes for 306 yards with two touchdowns and one interception, while rushing four times for 31 yards, but the Bills lost 30–13, dropping to 7–3. His near-perfect efficiency in prior games, combined with clutch rushing in the , underscored the Bills' dynamic team dynamics and Allen's leadership in high-stakes matchups.

NFL career statistics

Regular season

Josh Allen has established himself as one of the NFL's most dynamic quarterbacks during his regular season career with the , amassing 28,890 passing yards and 213 touchdown passes through the 2025 season while also contributing significantly as a rusher with 4,493 yards and 75 touchdowns. His development is evident in key trends, such as his completion percentage improving from 52.8% in his year of 2018 to 69.6% through ten games in 2025, alongside a steady rise in from 67.9 to 105.6 over that span.

Passing Statistics

The following table summarizes Allen's regular season passing statistics from 2018 to 2025.
YearGamesCompletions/AttemptsYardsTouchdownsInterceptionsCompletion %Passer RatingSacks
201812169/3202,074101252.867.928
201916271/4613,08920958.885.338
202016396/5724,544371069.2107.226
202117409/6464,407361563.392.226
202216359/5674,283351463.396.633
202317385/5794,306291866.592.224
202417307/4833,73128663.6101.414
202510204/2932,45618769.6105.620
Career1212,500/3,92128,8902139163.894.4209

Rushing Statistics

Allen's dual-threat ability is highlighted in his rushing production, where he has consistently ranked among the top quarterbacks in yards and touchdowns. The table below details his rushing stats.
YearGamesCarriesYardsTouchdowns
201812896318
2019161095109
2020161024218
2021171227636
2022161247627
20231711152415
20241710253112
2025106535110
Career1218244,49375

Fumbles

Fumbles have been a noted aspect of Allen's aggressive playing style, though his recoveries have helped mitigate losses. Below is a year-by-year breakdown of fumbles lost and recovered in the regular season.
YearFumbles LostFumbles Recovered
201862
2019104
202081
202162
202285
202361
202441
202541
Career5217

Postseason

Josh Allen has made 13 playoff starts in his NFL career from 2019 to 2024, passing for 3,359 yards and 25 touchdowns while rushing for 668 yards and 7 touchdowns across those games. His postseason performance highlights his dual-threat ability, with a career playoff of 100.8 and a rushing average of 6.0 yards per carry.

Passing Statistics

Career Playoff Totals

Completions/AttemptsYardsTouchdownsInterceptionsCompletion %Passer Rating
302/4603,35925465.7100.8
Allen achieved his highest single-game touchdown total with 5 passing scores in the 2021 Wild Card playoff victory over the New England Patriots.

Per-Season Playoff Passing

YearGamesCompletions/AttemptsYardsTDsINTsCompletion %Rating
2019124/462640052.269.5
2020377/1208175164.294.3
2021248/626379077.4149.0
2022248/816163359.380.1
2023247/693894068.1101.7
2024358/826364070.7109.6
In later seasons, Allen showed improved efficiency, such as a 149.0 across the 2021 postseason games.

Rushing Statistics

Career Playoff Totals

CarriesYardsTouchdownsYards per CarryLongest Rush
11266876.052

Per-Season Playoff Rushing

YearGamesCarriesYardsTDsYards per Carry
20191992010.2
202032514515.8
202121713407.9
20222124613.8
202322014637.3
202432910523.6
These rushing totals underscore Allen's mobility in high-stakes games, contributing to over 4,000 combined passing and rushing yards in the postseason.

Records and achievements

NFL records

Josh Allen holds several records as a , particularly in categories combining passing and rushing production. In the 2021 playoff game against the , Allen tied for the second-most passing touchdowns in a single postseason game with five, all thrown in a 47-17 Bills victory; this performance also featured a 157.6 , the second-highest in playoff history for a single game (minimum 15 attempts). In 2020, Allen achieved 45 combined passing and rushing touchdowns (37 passing and 8 rushing), the highest total by a with significant rushing contribution in a single regular season, surpassing marks by non-rushing specialists like Peyton Manning's 55 passing touchdowns in 2013 but highlighting dual-threat output. In rushing-specific achievements, Allen tied the record for most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in a single season with 15 during the 2023 campaign, matching ' mark from 2022 and highlighting his elite mobility in adverse conditions, including multiple scores in sub-zero temperatures during Buffalo's late-season games. As of November 19, 2025, Allen is tied with for the most career rushing s by a with 75. He also holds the record for most games with at least one passing and one rushing (12), and is the only player with two games featuring three passing and three rushing s (October 14, 2024, vs. ; November 16, 2025, vs. ).
RecordAchievementYearSource
Most combined passing + rushing TDs by dual-threat QB (season)452020Pro Football Reference
Most passing TDs in a game (tied for 2nd)52021 ()NFL.com
Highest single-game postseason (2nd all-time)157.62021 ()Pro Football Reference
Most rushing TDs by QB (season, tied)152023
Most career rushing TDs by QB (tied)75Career (as of 2025).com
Most games with pass + rush TD12Career (as of 2025).com

Bills franchise records

Josh Allen holds numerous franchise records for the across passing, rushing, combined statistics, and postseason performance, surpassing longtime benchmarks set by predecessors like . In passing, Allen set the single-season record for yards with 4,544 in 2020, a mark that remains unmatched through the 2025 season. He also established the Bills' single-season passing touchdown record with 37 in 2020, eclipsing Kelly's previous high of 33 from 1991. Career-wise, Allen leads the franchise in 300-yard passing games with 33 as of November 2025, far exceeding the next closest Bill's total. As a rusher, Allen owns all quarterback-specific rushing records for the Bills. He has accumulated 4,422 career rushing yards, the most by any in franchise history. In a single season, his 15 rushing touchdowns in 2023 set the team record for a quarterback, second to O.J. Simpson's overall franchise mark of 16 from 1975. For combined production, Allen's 45 total touchdowns (37 passing, 8 rushing) in represent the franchise single-season , topping Kelly's 33 passing touchdowns from 1991. Additionally, he holds the Bills' for consecutive starts by a with 119 as of November 19, 2025, a streak that began in Week 12 of the 2018 season and has continued without interruption despite injuries. In the playoffs, Allen set the Bills' single-game record for passing touchdowns with five against the in the 2021 round, a performance that also tied the mark for most passing touchdowns in a quarterback's playoff debut.

Accolades

During his time at the , Allen earned the MVP award in the 2017 after throwing three touchdown passes in a 37-14 victory over . In the NFL, Allen has been selected to the Pro Bowl three times, representing the AFC in 2020, 2022, and 2024. He has also received second-team All-Pro honors from the Associated Press twice, in 2020 alongside Patrick Mahomes at quarterback and in 2024 behind Lamar Jackson. Allen culminated his 2024 season by winning the Most Valuable Player award, presented by the , after receiving 27 first-place votes out of 50 in a close race with (21 first-place votes). He was the runner-up for the in 2020, finishing second to . Throughout his career, Allen has been recognized with multiple Offensive Player of the Month and Week honors, including the Player of the Month award for September 2020 (when he threw 11 touchdowns with no interceptions) and December 2020 (leading the Bills to four wins with 15 passing touchdowns). He earned four Offensive Player of the Week awards in 2020 alone, tying for the league lead.

Playing career analysis

Player profile

Josh Allen stands at 6 feet 5 inches tall and weighs 237 pounds, giving him an imposing frame that aids his ability to see over the offensive line and absorb contact. His elite arm strength allows him to make throws exceeding 60 yards with velocity and precision, a trait that has been ranked as the strongest in the . Allen's athleticism is highlighted by his 4.75-second time from the 2018 NFL Combine, enabling quick bursts outside the pocket. Despite frequently taking due to his physical running style, he has demonstrated remarkable , playing through injuries and maintaining one of the most consistent availability records among starting quarterbacks since entering the league in 2018. As a , Allen excels in improvisational rushing, often scrambling to extend plays and turning broken pockets into significant gains through his speed and power. His pocket mobility allows him to evade pressure while keeping his eyes downfield, creating opportunities for both passes and runs. Over his career, Allen's deep-ball accuracy has shown substantial growth, improving from around 30% completion rate in his early seasons to over 50% in recent years, reflecting refined mechanics and better decision-making. Allen's playing style is characterized by a high-risk, high-reward approach, blending powerful rushing with aggressive downfield passing that can result in explosive plays or turnovers. This dual-threat profile draws comparisons to for his physical running ability and to a young for his arm talent and off-script creativity. Initially criticized for inaccuracy in his rookie year, where he completed just 52.8% of passes, Allen evolved from a run-first into a more balanced passer through targeted coaching, including work with private coach to adjust his footwork and release. For instance, in the 2020 season, his completion percentage jumped to 69.2%, showcasing this transformation.

Legacy and impact

Josh Allen has been instrumental in revitalizing the franchise since becoming their starting quarterback in , transforming a team that had struggled for consistency into perennial playoff contenders. Although the Bills ended their 17-year playoff drought in prior to Allen's arrival, his leadership has sustained and elevated that momentum, guiding the team to six consecutive postseason appearances from to 2024 and securing five straight division titles from 2020 to 2024. As the undisputed face of the franchise, Allen's dynamic play and marketability have significantly boosted the Bills' fanbase, known as Bills Mafia, with attendance at Highmark Stadium reaching near-capacity averages of over 70,000 fans per game in recent seasons, a marked increase from the pre-Allen era. This surge in popularity has also driven merchandise sales and regional engagement, solidifying his role as a cultural icon in . On a league-wide scale, Allen has redefined the quarterback position through his elite rushing ability, leading the with 15 rushing touchdowns in 2023 and recording 12 in 2024. His career total of 82 rushing touchdowns (including ) as of November 2025 surpasses Newton's previous record of 77, highlighting his evolution of the dual-threat archetype and inspiring a new generation of mobile s who blend passing precision with ground-game dominance. By age 29, Allen has earned three selections (2020, 2022, 2024) and the 2024 MVP award, positioning him on a strong trajectory toward the , where analysts project his accumulation of over 40,000 passing yards and 300 total touchdowns could make him a first-ballot inductee if sustained. Allen’s impact extends to his intangible qualities, earning widespread praise from coaches and teammates for his and on-field chemistry. Bills Sean McDermott has repeatedly lauded Allen's growth as a vocal leader, describing him as an "extraordinary human being" who exemplifies commitment both in preparation and team dynamics, particularly after navigating challenges like the 2024 departure of Stefon Diggs. Allen forged a strong rapport with Diggs that produced over 5,000 receiving yards in four seasons together, while his developing connection with Dalton Kincaid—highlighted by Kincaid's 101-yard, one-touchdown performance in a key 2025 game—has added a reliable safety valve to Buffalo's offense. Despite these strengths, Allen's legacy remains incomplete without a appearance, as the Bills have fallen short in six straight playoff runs; the ongoing 2025 season, with Buffalo at 7-3 after ten games as of November 2025, looms as a critical juncture for cementing his place among the all-time greats.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Josh Allen was born to parents and LaVonne Allen, who have been married since 1988 and raised their four children on a family farm in , instilling strong values of hard work and close-knit bonds. Allen is the second oldest sibling, with an older , Nicala Allen, a younger brother, Jason Allen, and a younger , Makenna Allen. The family maintains tight connections through annual gatherings and shared milestones, such as celebrations for the births of nieces and nephews, reflecting their enduring support for one another. In his personal life, Allen dated high school acquaintance Brittany Williams for approximately eight years, beginning around 2015 and ending amicably in early 2023. Later that spring, he began a relationship with actress and singer Hailee Steinfeld, which they kept private initially before confirming publicly in 2024. The couple became engaged in November 2024 and married on May 31, 2025, in an intimate garden ceremony at San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California, attended by close family and friends. As of November 2025, the couple has no children. Allen's family plays a prominent role in his professional life, with his parents regularly attending Buffalo Bills games to provide unwavering encouragement. Steinfeld has similarly offered public support, notably celebrating Allen's 2024 NFL award during his acceptance speech at the , where he credited her as his "rock" and best friend.

Golf

Josh Allen developed a serious interest in during his college years at the , where he began using the sport to refine his focus and hand-eye coordination as a complement to his training. He has since incorporated into his offseason routine, crediting it with enhancing his mental discipline and precision, skills that translate directly to his performance as a . Allen has competed in high-profile celebrity golf events, showcasing his growing proficiency. At the 2023 American Century Celebrity Golf Championship, he finished tied for 37th place with 22 points, including a final-round score of 80. His performance improved in subsequent years, tying for 20th in with 39 points and for 34th in 2025 with 20 points. He has also participated in PGA Tour pro-ams, such as the , where in he and his professional partner finished tied for sixth overall after two rounds. A roughly 6-handicap golfer as of 2025, Allen frequently plays alongside professional athletes, including star at the . He joins annual pro-am events like those at Pebble Beach and The Genesis Invitational, often sharing the course with NFL teammates during Bills-organized outings to build camaraderie. On a personal level, Allen favors links-style courses for their challenging, windswept layouts, with standing out as a favorite due to its demanding conditions that mirror the strategic elements he enjoys in the sport. To maintain his game year-round, he installed a Full Swing golf simulator in his home, prioritizing it during the design of his residence to allow for practice sessions even in harsh winters. He occasionally includes family members in casual rounds, turning outings into relaxed bonding opportunities.

Business ventures

Josh Allen has built a robust portfolio of endorsement deals with prominent brands, leveraging his status as a top NFL quarterback. Key partnerships include a multiyear agreement with PepsiCo, encompassing Gatorade and other products, signed in 2023, as well as deals with Verizon, New Era Cap Company, and Gillette. In September 2025, following his NFL MVP award, Allen transitioned from Nike to a signature endorsement with New Balance, which includes funding for youth sports programs in his California hometown. These deals, along with appearances in post-MVP commercials for brands like Pepsi and New Era, generated an estimated $15 million in endorsement income for 2025. Beyond endorsements, Allen has pursued strategic investments in consumer and sports-related companies. He invested in recovery technology firm Therabody in 2021 and expanded his role in 2025 as the brand's first performance advisor. In April 2025, he joined The Cashmere Fund, a vehicle, as a partner and investor to support emerging opportunities. Allen also acquired an ownership stake in Buffalo-based in July 2025, serving as its "Director of Billustration" for creative input on designs. Earlier, in 2020, he backed local golf equipment maker , and in 2023, he co-invested in the LA Mad Drops franchise. These ventures reflect his focus on athlete-aligned branding and local enterprises. Allen's real estate holdings in the area underscore his commitment to the region, with a portfolio valued at around $12 million as of 2025. This includes a 7,500-square-foot in Orchard Park purchased for $2.3 million in 2022, located near the Bills' stadium, and a 1.5-acre plot bought for $500,000 in 2021 for potential development. He has also invested in properties, such as a Dana Point and another residence listed for $8.5 million in July 2025. In March 2025, Allen entered media production by signing a multiyear deal with Skydance Sports to co-develop scripted and unscripted content, including NFL-related projects. His overall stands at approximately $70 million in 2025, primarily from NFL contracts and endorsements.

Philanthropy

In 2020, following the passing of his grandmother Patricia Allen, Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen collaborated with to establish the Patricia Allen Fund, which provides ongoing support to pediatric critical care teams treating children and families in . The fund has raised over $2 million by 2025 through fan-driven campaigns, rival team contributions, and special events, including more than $1 million from Bills supporters in its inaugural year alone. Allen's philanthropic efforts extend to addressing hunger in , where he has partnered with the Food Bank of WNY through team initiatives like the annual meal distribution, personally participating in handing out over 600 meals to families in need. He has also supported broader relief efforts, such as the Bills Foundation's Huddle for Hunger drive, which collected a record 65,100 pounds of food in 2025 to aid FeedMore WNY's network of nearly 400 partner agencies combating food insecurity. Additionally, Allen makes regular visits to , where he has formed lasting bonds with young patients, including surprising Abbie McNett and celebrating her treatment completion in 2025. Key events highlight Allen's commitment, including his participation in the 117 Holes FOR Children's golf marathon starting in 2024, which he helped expand to 117 holes in honor of his jersey number; the event raised over $770,000 that year and more than $800,000 in 2025, all directed to the Patricia Allen Fund. In 2025, Allen launched a season-long initiative auctioning custom New Era hats designed by Oishei patients, worn and signed by him during each Bills home game, with the Week 1 auction alone generating $17,150 for critical care support. He has donated experiences to children via Make-A-Wish fulfillments and veterans' organizations, and following his 2024 MVP award, he quarterbacked the RX3 Charity Tournament, contributing to over $1 million raised across three years for youth-focused causes like the Boys & Girls Clubs through the Empower Campaign. In 2025, Allen extended his impact to his hometown by leveraging a endorsement to fund free access to programs.