Buffalo Bills fans held their breath Thursday night as star quarterback Josh Allen endured a punishing game against the Houston Texans, suffering multiple injury scares but ultimately reassuring everyone that he’s fine.
Allen’s Painful Night in Houston
The drama unfolded late in the first quarter when Houston’s Will Anderson Jr. delivered a crushing hit on Allen during a 3rd-and-6 scramble. Allen landed hard on his left shoulder and arm, immediately showing signs of pain—kicking his legs on the turf and heading straight to the bench. The sight was alarming, but Allen never entered the medical tent and quickly downplayed the incident after the game.
"I'm okay. I'll be alright," Allen told reporters following the Bills’ 23-19 loss.
"Just the left shoulder, landed on it, went a little numb on me. We're good."Medical Perspective: Turf Burn or Something More?
Dr. David Chao, a former NFL team physician, reviewed the footage and suggested Allen’s reaction was likely due to a painful turf burn on his left elbow, rather than a structural injury.
“Turf burn can hurt a lot. Obviously, the reaction, he's kicking his legs around, but I think he is fine,” Chao explained, noting that Allen’s ability to finish the game was a positive sign.
Texans’ Defense Relentless
The Texans’ defensive front was relentless, sacking Allen eight times and hitting him 12 times throughout the night. On the Bills’ final possession, Allen was sacked again, this time shaking out his right arm—another moment that sparked concern. However, he immediately bounced back, completing a tricky hook-and-ladder throw on the next play and finishing the game without missing a snap.
Allen’s Status Moving Forward
Despite the visible pain and repeated hits, Allen’s postgame comments and continued play suggest there’s no serious injury to worry about. He was not listed as a major concern on the Bills’ subsequent injury reports, and there’s no indication he’ll miss time. The Bills, however, are dealing with a slew of other injuries across the roster, making Allen’s resilience even more critical as they push for a playoff spot.
What This Means for the Bills
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Allen is expected to play in upcoming games and has not been ruled out or limited in practice.
- The Bills’ offensive line struggles are a growing concern, as Allen’s health is paramount to their playoff hopes.
- Fans and analysts will be watching closely for any lingering effects, but for now, Allen’s message is clear: he’s ready to lead the team forward.
Takeaway
Josh Allen’s toughness was on full display, and while the Texans gave him a beating, the Bills’ franchise quarterback insists he’s good to go. Buffalo’s playoff dreams hinge on his health—and for now, Allen says there’s nothing to worry about.
Sources
1. Expert opinion as Josh Allen dismisses injury concerns ...
2. Buffalo Bills Injuries | Buffalo Rumblings
3. Josh Allen injury: Shoulder goes numb for Buffalo Bills QB ...
4. Buffalo Bills at Houston Texans Week 12 'TNF' pregame coverage
5. Bills injury updates on a short week, Josh Allen eyes ...
6. Buffalo Rumblings
7. How did the Bills lose to the Texans? Josh Allen sends ...