Here we are again, Bills fans, facing another offseason without the Lombardi Trophy making its way to Western New York. Since 2020, the Bills have experienced heartbreak after heartbreak. This time, it was a tough overtime loss to the Denver Broncos that ended their playoff run, adding another overtime defeat to Josh Allen's record.
It's clear that Allen can't be blamed for everything-especially when the defense has faltered at crucial playoff moments. However, against Denver, Allen was responsible for four of the Bills' five turnovers. While this game might be an exception, Allen has generally been a strong performer, though he has yet to fully realize his superstar potential by leading the Bills to the Super Bowl.
As Allen heads into his ninth NFL season, he's achieved division championships and an MVP award, yet the elusive Super Bowl appearance still evades him. Despite not being able to control every aspect of the game, as the team's leader, the highs and lows often fall squarely on his shoulders.
Josh Allen is feeling the heat as he approaches the 2026 season. Lou Scataglia from NFL Spin Zone has named him among the five quarterbacks under significant pressure, alongside Jalen Hurts, Jayden Daniels, Bryce Young, and Caleb Williams.
Scataglia notes, "If Allen wants to silence the 'playoff failure' chatter, he's got to find a new level and at least make it to a Super Bowl. While he's likely to remain the Bills' starting quarterback for the long haul, each playoff shortfall only amplifies the noise."
It's a tough era for Allen, competing in an AFC brimming with talent like Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson. The emergence of players like Trevor Lawrence, Bo Nix, and Drake Maye only adds to the competitive landscape.
True, Allen doesn't play defense, and it's not his fault if the defense struggles to make stops. Yet, there have been times when Allen and the offense haven't clicked, contributing to the Bills' challenges. If the 2026 season ends without a Super Bowl victory, it will only fuel the doubters questioning Allen's ability to lead the team to the ultimate success.