Josh Allen Set to Start vs. Eagles in Week 17: What It Means for Philadelphia
The Eagles caught a bit of a break last week, taking down the Commanders while facing Marcus Mariota under center. And for a moment, it looked like they might catch another one.
Josh Allen left Buffalo’s win over Cleveland with a foot injury, opening the door for a potential Mitch Trubisky start in Week 17. But that door just slammed shut.
According to reports, Allen is good to go for Sunday’s matchup - and that’s a game-changer for both teams.
Allen’s Return: A Problem for Philly
Let’s be clear: even in a year that hasn’t quite lived up to his previous MVP-level standards, Josh Allen is still one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the league. He’s had his share of turnovers and off-games in 2025, but when the lights are brightest, Allen has shown up. Just ask the Ravens, Chiefs, Bengals, and Patriots - all teams he’s led the Bills past this season in high-stakes matchups.
Now, with the playoffs looming, Allen’s presence isn’t just about winning this game. It’s about setting the tone for what Buffalo hopes is a deep postseason run. Week 18 brings a relatively soft landing against the Jets, so this Eagles matchup is likely Buffalo’s final real test before the tournament begins.
That makes Sunday’s game more than just another regular-season contest - it’s a statement opportunity. And Allen isn’t the type to let one of those slip by.
A Bit of Payback on the Line
There’s also some unfinished business here. The last time these two teams met, back in November 2023, Allen and the Bills had the Eagles on the ropes. Buffalo led 24-14 heading into the fourth quarter, and Allen was dealing - two passing touchdowns, two on the ground, and 34 total points.
But the Eagles stormed back. They dropped 17 points in the fourth quarter, forced overtime, and walked it off with a game-winning touchdown. That one stung for Buffalo - not just because of the loss, but because they let a double-digit lead slip away despite Allen playing one of his most complete games of the season.
You better believe that’s still fresh in Allen’s mind. He’s not just playing to get the Bills to 13-4 and jockey for playoff seeding. He’s playing to settle a score.
What This Means for the Eagles
Philly’s defense has had its ups and downs this season, and now they’re staring down one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the league - a guy who can beat you deep, extend plays with his legs, and bulldoze through defenders in the red zone. That’s a tall order, especially with Buffalo treating this like a playoff dress rehearsal.
Don’t expect the Bills to hold anything back. With seeding still in play and the AFC race as tight as ever, they’ll be looking to make a statement - and Allen will be leading the charge.
So while the Eagles may have hoped for a lighter assignment under center this week, they’re getting the full Josh Allen experience instead. And that’s never an easy day at the office.