
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen 17 hangs his head as he walks off the field after an overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 17, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 17 AFC Divisional Round Bills at Broncos EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon132260117372
DENVER, CO - JANUARY 17: Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen 17 hangs his head as he walks off the field after an overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round game at Empower Field at Mile High on January 17, 2026 in Denver, Colorado. Photo by Dustin Bradford/Icon Sportswire NFL, American Football Herren, USA JAN 17 AFC Divisional Round Bills at Broncos EDITORIAL USE ONLY Icon132260117372
Jan 30, 2026, 7:04 AM CUT
Josh Allen’s Tough Season Ended With Surgery, But the Bills Aren’t Worried
In the last season, Josh Allen played through pain most quarterbacks wouldn’t tolerate. However, his appearance on crutches didn't signal panic in Buffalo.
With the broken bone in his right foot repaired, the Buffalo Bills QB eyes a smooth return. During the new head coach Joe Brady’s introductory news conference, Allen appeared on crutches and in a walking boot.
Allen told the media that it was an “older injury” that worsened during the Cleveland game in Week 16. His fifth metatarsal had an avulsion that needed surgery to repair.
"I had a little broken bone in there, so they went and took it out and cleaned it up,” the quarterback told the media. “Obviously, not an ideal situation. Painful throughout the weeks. But, again, game day, different story, just being able to put that to the side and go out there and play football."
The avulsed part of the bone is secured in place with the help of a small screw or anchor. The procedure, backed by enough rest, will likely allow the foot to heal properly while restoring stability.
And the Bills aren’t worried about the quarterback for all the good reasons.
When Can Josh Allen Return?
The average recovery period for such injuries is usually eight to ten weeks. He can complete early rehabilitation by April, participate in off-season workouts and OTAs, and return to play in the regular season by September.
Had the Buffalo Bills advanced, Allen wouldn’t have missed out on playing in the AFC title game or Super Bowl LX. The loss against the Broncos simply accelerated his surgery. After all, he suited up for two playoff games after the injury.
As the conversation with the media continued, Allen said, "I'm not even lying, if we had to play a game this week, I would figure it out to play a game. It's a little painful right now, but it wasn't a crazy surgery. Not too long. OTAs, I'll be back, and it shouldn't hinder anything."
Josh Allen attacked recovery with the same resilience he showed on Sundays. With surgery complete and time on his side, the Buffalo Bills expect their quarterback to be ready when it matters most.
What do you think? Is it a good idea for him?
Written by

Krushna Pattnaik
Edited by

Joyita Das