Is Josh Allen playing vs. Jets? Bills' star QB status set for regular season finale

Josh Allen has been dealing with an ankle injury in recent weeks. Will that impact his availability for the Buffalo Bills in Week 18?

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen briefly interacts with fans before leaving the field. | Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Buffalo Bills and New York Jets will meet in the late window on Sunday afternoon for a Week 18 matchup. It's a historic one since it's the final regular-season game at the current Highmark Stadium, which has been the Bills' home since 1973.

With the New England Patriots winning the AFC East, the Bills would need a lot to go right in the playoffs to return during the postseason. That means this could be the final game they ever play in their current home, as they break in the new Highmark Stadium in 2026.

MORE: Bills give Keon Coleman chance to climb out of doghouse, WR active vs. Jets

The big question heading into this one for Buffalo has been whether Josh Allen will suit up. The 2024 NFL MVP has been dealing with an ankle injury and while he hasn't let that slow him down, he has been visibly hobbled.

Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins provides pass protection to give quarterback Josh Allen. | Tina MacIntyre-Yee/Democrat and Chronicle / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

With nothing outside of seeding on the line, the Bills could decide to sit Allen. That won't be the case, though. Buffalo has said Allen, who has started 134 consecutive games, will be in action.

MORE: Ex-Bears' franchise QB 'trying to win the game' for Bills in Highmark Stadium finale

That said, it's fair to assume he won't play the entire game. Similar to 2024, Allen could go out there for the opening series and quickly turn things over to Mitchell Trubisky. Even if they hand the keys to the backup, Buffalo has to feel good about their chances of winning in the Highmark finale.

Buffalo Bills vs. New York Jets TV & viewing info

Date: Sunday, January 4, 2026
Start Time: 4:25 p.m. ET
Location: Orchard Park, NY
Venue: Highmark Stadium
TV Channel: CBS
Betting Odds: Bills -7.5 | O/U: 37.5

MORE: 3 bold predictions for Week 18 finale as Buffalo Bills host New York Jets

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.

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