Why is Josh Allen not playing today vs Jets? Bills make bold decision after opening snap
Bills QB Josh Allen has been managing a right foot/ankle injury that has been aggravated in recent weeks, prompting the coaching staff to limit his workload.
The Buffalo Bills chose to rest superstar quarterback Josh Allen for most of their Week 18 matchup against the New York Jets after he took only the opening snap of the game.
Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills takes the field before the game against the New York Jets at Highmark Stadium on January 04, 2026 in Orchard Park, New York. (Getty Images via AFP)
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The reigning 2024 NFL MVP started the contest, took the first snap, and handed the ball off to running back James Cook, who picked up a 10-yard gain. Moments later, Allen exited the field and was replaced by backup quarterback Mitchell Trubisky.
The Bills have already clinched a playoff berth, limiting the potential impact of the Week 18 result on their postseason seeding. With little to gain, Buffalo opted to prioritize Allen’s health.
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Josh Allen has been managing a right foot/ankle injury that has been aggravated in recent weeks, prompting the coaching staff to limit his workload. However, by starting the game and taking at least one snap, Allen was able to extend his consecutive starts streak before being pulled.
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Josh Allen has been managing a right foot/ankle injury that has been aggravated in recent weeks, prompting the coaching staff to limit his workload. However, by starting the game and taking at least one snap, Allen was able to extend his consecutive starts streak before being pulled.
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Trubisky took over under center for the remainder of the game as the Bills focused on keeping their franchise quarterback healthy heading into the playoffs.
Vaishnavi Vaidyanathan leads the US Desk at Hindustan Times, where she writes, strategises coverage, and ensures quality across all beats. With eight years of experience covering US news for leading publications, she has reported extensively on politics, entertainment, and sports. Vaishnavi holds a graduate degree in English, Journalism, and Psychology, and completed her PG Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from the Manorama School of Communication, where she was awarded the prestigious Mammen Mappillai Award for Best Outgoing Student. She began her career at the International Business Times (US Edition), covering US breaking news, politics, and entertainment. She later joined Opoyi, reporting across all beats, including US sports and trending stories. Prior to Hindustan Times, she served as World Lead at Times Now News, covering comprehensive world news and events. Vaishnavi has expertise in politics, entertainment, and breaking news, and enjoys tackling stories across a wide range of topics. Beyond the newsroom, she is an avid traveller, a foodie who loves exploring new restaurants, and a pop culture enthusiast who enjoys watching latest shows and films. She also enjoys engaging in debates and discussions on Reddit.
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