Bills coach McDermott: "I have a responsibility to protect [MVP] Allen" this preseason

Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills star quarterback and reigning MVP, will not participate in any preseason games this year, marking a significant departure from his previous approach.

Why it matters: This decision underscores the team's cautious strategy as they prepare for the regular season, especially considering Allen's pivotal role in their offensive scheme.

• By opting to rest Allen during the preseason, the Bills aim to mitigate injury risks and ensure he enters the regular season fully healthy.
• Coach Sean McDermott noted the importance of protecting both Allen and the team, reflecting a broader trend in the NFL where teams prioritize player health over preseason performance.

What’s new: For the first time in his career, Allen will sit out all preseason games, including the final matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

• Allen had previously missed only two preseason games in his career, making this decision particularly notable.
• With a successful 2022 season behind him, where he recorded the fewest turnovers (8) and sacks (14), the focus now shifts to maintaining that momentum without risking injury.

Yes, but: While some may question the merit of not playing in the preseason, the Bills are confident in Allen's readiness.

• McDermott emphasized that Allen has been fully engaged in training camp, participating in joint practices with the Chicago Bears and missing just one team period.
• The head coach stated, "He's on schedule and he's looked good," reinforcing the notion that Allen's practice performance is sufficient preparation for the regular season.

What to watch: As the Bills navigate their preseason roster decisions, the status of other first-team players remains uncertain.

• McDermott revealed that discussions about which starters will play in the final preseason game are ongoing, hinting at potential strategic considerations as the team approaches its season opener.
• Observing how the Bills manage their roster depth heading into the regular season could provide insights into their overall strategy.

The bottom line: While Allen's absence from preseason games may raise eyebrows, the Bills are clearly focused on ensuring their franchise quarterback is poised for success when the regular season kicks off.

• Given Allen's track record and the team's commitment to careful management, this move seems designed to maximize his effectiveness in what promises to be another competitive season for the Bills.