Josh Allen Jokes Christmas Gifts Getting Expensive for Buffalo Bills Offensive Line
Every year, starting quarterbacks buy their offensive linemen gifts for the holidays. They’re the unsung hero of basically every strong offense, have the most physically demanding job on that side of the line of scrimmage, and – most importantly – are paid to keep the quarterback upright.
This year, it’s safe to say the Buffalo Bills' offensive linemen avoided the naughty list.
Allen and his linemen celebrate a big play against the Philadelphia Eagles.
© Eric Hartline, USA TODAY
This is almost unanimously regarded as the best front five Allen has played behind. He’s on track to take the fewest sacks of his career (19 through 14 games) and – despite the offense’s early-season inconsistencies – they haven’t stemmed from a lack of pass protection.
Left tackle (and Walter Payton Man of the Year candidate) Dion Dawkins and center Mitch Morse are mainstays, but the Bills have seen promising play from all five of their starting linemen.
Rookie right guard O’Cyrus Torrence has lived up to expectations and free-agent signing Connor McGovern is the highest-graded pass protector on the team. At right tackle, Spencer Brown’s breakout has been a point of emphasis for the coaching staff. They’ve been blessed with good health and continuity and are making the most of it.
That play has reaped the linemen some rewards come Christmas time. Allen joked on Tuesday that his wallet took a hit.
“It’s getting a little crazy now, so I gotta, I think I started off too strong,” Allen said. “I think I should have continued to casually build my way up, but they deserve it.”
There’s no word on what Allen had in mind just yet, but one-upping last year’s gift – personalized scooters – may be a challenge. For keeping Allen healthy, there isn’t a price too high to pay.
Allen and his friends up front will have the luxury of enjoying their Christmas festivities at home, as they visit the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday. The game, airing exclusively on Peacock, will kick off at 8 p.m. (ET).
