Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen. Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Why Bills QB Josh Allen is adopting a new mentality

By Clark Dalton | Last updated 4/19/23

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen acknowledged he's writing checks his body can't cash.

"It sounds crazy, but I'm getting older. I can't continue to do this," Allen said during a Tuesday news conference. "But over the course of my career, I'm gonna have to learn to adapt and change. I've always had the mindset of, I've been a football player first and a QB second."

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At 26, the two-time Pro Bowler isn't entering the twilight of his career, but he has some wear and tear. Since 2019, Allen has been sacked 123 times in 65 games, 10th-most in the NFL.

His playing style, aptly described as rugged, also risks his durability. Allen became a preeminent dual-threat QB in five seasons, rushing for 3,087 yards on 546 attempts. During that timeframe, Baltimore's Lamar Jackson was the only QB with more rushing attempts and yards.

Allen carried the Bills in the regular season, yet it's clear his usage took a toll in the playoffs. In the postseason, he has a 4-4 starting record and 11 turnovers (seven fumbles and four interceptions).

When the Bengals eliminated the Bills from the playoffs in January, Allen posted his second-lowest QBR (55.6) of the season, and Buffalo scored a season-low 10 points.

The Bills also must improve Allen's supporting cast to leap over the playoff hurdle. They should start by upgrading the O-line so Allen runs less. Per Tankathon, Buffalo will select Florida Guard O'Cyrus Torrence, a 2022 first-team All-American, at No. 27 overall.

If Allen remains fresh through the 2023 season, he could play at an MVP level, bolstering the chance the Bills capture their first Super Bowl.

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