The Buffalo Bills are heading into a pivotal Week 17 showdown with the Philadelphia Eagles, and all eyes are on Josh Allen’s availability. The star quarterback is nursing a foot injury that’s kept him limited in practice this week, raising questions about his status for Sunday’s matchup.
Let’s break it down.
Allen was listed as a limited participant during Wednesday’s session, and with the team not holding a formal practice on Thursday due to the holiday, the Bills released an estimated injury report - and Allen’s status remained unchanged. He’s still limited, but importantly, not absent. That’s a key distinction for a team that lives and dies by his playmaking ability.
Now, limited participation doesn’t guarantee he’ll be ready to go, but it does suggest he’s trending in the right direction. If Allen were dealing with something more serious, you’d likely see a DNP (Did Not Participate) next to his name. Instead, Buffalo is keeping the door open - and Allen himself has already said he expects to play.
Of course, expectations and reality can diverge quickly in the NFL. Friday’s practice will be the real litmus test. That’s when we’ll get the clearest signal of where Allen stands physically and whether he’ll be cleared to lead the offense come Sunday.
Even if he does suit up, it’s fair to assume he won’t be at full strength. Foot injuries can be tricky, especially for a quarterback like Allen who relies so much on mobility and off-script playmaking.
Whether it’s escaping pressure, extending plays, or picking up key yards with his legs, Allen’s athleticism is a central part of Buffalo’s offensive identity. A compromised version of that could force the Bills to tweak their game plan.
Still, having Allen at, say, 80% is a better option than most teams have at 100%. His presence alone changes the complexion of the game - for Buffalo’s offense, and for how the Eagles prepare defensively.
Bottom line: Allen’s trending toward playing, but Friday’s practice will be the real indicator. If he’s out there and moving well, expect to see No. 17 under center in one of the most important games of the Bills’ season.