Josh Allen Appears on Injury Report as Bills Prepare for Steelers

The Buffalo Bills enter Week 13 searching for stability after a narrow loss to the Houston Texans, but they now face an unexpected complication with their franchise quarterback. Josh Allen, who absorbed heavy punishment in the defeat, appeared on the team’s injury report this week with an issue in his throwing arm. While his level of participation in practice offered some reassurance, the timing is far from ideal as Buffalo approaches a pivotal matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Allen was seen repeatedly shaking his right arm during the fourth quarter on Sunday, a visible sign of discomfort following a barrage of hits. The Bills’ offensive struggles were magnified by their protection issues, as the Texans’ pass rush overwhelmed the unit throughout the game. Even so, Allen nearly willed Buffalo to a comeback victory before a late interception sealed the outcome.

The veteran quarterback has continued to shoulder a heavy workload this season, producing at a high level despite persistent pressure and an inconsistent supporting cast. Still, the cumulative impact of hits — including eight sacks in Week 12 alone — raises concerns about how long he can sustain his physical approach.

With Buffalo fighting to stay alive in the playoff picture, Allen’s health and the state of the offensive line have suddenly become central questions heading into a must-win AFC showdown.

1. Injury Concerns Surface at a Critical Time

Allen’s appearance on the injury report came after days of speculation about his condition following the loss to Houston. According to reports, the quarterback is dealing with a right elbow injury, though he remained a full participant during Wednesday’s practice. That status suggests he is expected to play, but his handling of the practice workload will be closely monitored. The injury stems from a game in which Allen endured constant pressure, taking a season-high number of hits. Despite battling through pain and fatigue, he was able to finish out the contest and lead a late drive, showing no signs of being held out by the medical staff. Buffalo has dealt with injuries before at key positions, but an issue to its quarterback — especially in his throwing arm — elevates the concern. The team’s medical evaluations over the next day will determine whether Allen can participate at full strength against Pittsburgh’s aggressive front. The Bills remain optimistic given Allen’s participation, but the elbow injury adds a layer of uncertainty as the team enters a crucial stage of the season.

2. Offensive Line Issues Take Center Stage

Buffalo’s offensive line has been a talking point throughout the year, and Week 12 exposed its most pressing vulnerabilities. Allen was sacked eight times — tied for one of the highest single-game totals of his career — and hit numerous other times, contributing to the strain on his throwing arm. The passing game struggled to find rhythm as protection broke down repeatedly, forcing Allen to rely on improvisation. While he has long thrived outside the pocket, the frequency of hits is taking a toll physically and mentally, limiting Buffalo’s ability to sustain drives. The Bills’ coaching staff has reiterated the importance of bolstering protection, but injuries and inconsistency have made progress difficult. With the Steelers boasting one of the NFL’s most physical defensive fronts, the challenge becomes even more pressing in Week 13. Buffalo’s margin for error is shrinking, and unless its offensive line can settle in, the team risks undermining its most important asset — a quarterback who is being asked to do too much.

3. Allen’s Production Remains Elite Despite Pressure

Even amid mounting hits and offensive turbulence, Allen continues to deliver at a level few quarterbacks can match. Through 11 games, he has accumulated more than 2,700 passing yards and nearly 400 rushing yards, while accounting for 28 total touchdowns. His completion percentage — just under 70% — remains among the best of his career. Allen’s versatility has been the stabilizing force for a Bills team still searching for an offensive identity. His rushing ability has consistently bailed out the offense, and his knack for late-game heroics keeps Buffalo competitive even when the structure breaks down. But the toll is showing. With 28 sacks already allowed, Allen is on pace to set a career-high in that category — an alarming trend for a quarterback who thrives in contact but cannot afford unrelenting punishment. Buffalo’s season ambitions hinge on Allen’s durability, and how the team manages his workload and protection in the coming weeks will determine whether the Bills can stay in the playoff race.