All eyes are on Josh Allen, who was seen in a walking boot after Sunday’s loss to Tampa Bay. We’ve heard conflicting reports on the exact nature of Allen’s foot injury— NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport says he’s battling turf toe while coach Sean McDermott diagnosed it as a sprain—though obviously it’s a major concern for the Bills, who are clinging to the AFC’s seventh and final playoff spot following recent losses to the Buccaneers, Patriots and Colts.
We’ll learn more on Allen’s status when the Bills return to practice Wednesday, though apparently the fourth-year quarterback was in attendance for Tuesday night’s production of Hamilton at Shea’s Performing Arts Center in Buffalo, and, according to sources present, was not walking with a noticeable limp. Allen, who was joined by teammates Jerry Hughes and Mitchell Trubisky, also appears to have scrapped his walking boot, another encouraging sign for his availability Sunday against Carolina.
Even at less than full strength, Allen was tremendous against Tampa Bay, contributing three touchdowns and 109 rushing yards in a 33-27 heartbreaker. That dropped Buffalo to 7-6 on the year, which many would view as a disappointment after last season’s breakthrough, conquering the mighty Patriots for their first division crown in 25 years. Per analytics site Fivethirtyeight.com, the Bills hold a reasonable 66-percent playoff probability, but only a 20-percent chance of unseating New England atop the AFC East.
There’s optimism Allen will suit up, but if he can’t go against the Panthers in Week 15, Buffalo would turn to Trubisky, a former second overall pick and one-time Pro Bowler for the Bears, in the 25-year-old’s stead.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow Audacy Sports
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
