Battered and bruised Buffalo Bills superstar quarterback Josh Allen addressed the media following the team's walk-through to kick off their AFC Divisional Round preparation. Fittingly, the first question a reporter asked him was about his current health status -- or lack thereof.
We all watched Allen take an absolute beating while leading the Bills to a thrilling 27-24 Wild Card victory over the Denver Broncos. So, it's not shocking to hear a Buffalo correspondent inquire about his physical well-being the moment the opportunity presents itself. The response, however, was surprising.
By the sound of it, Allen is more than ready for another hard-fought battle.
Josh Allen calms Bills Mafia's injury concerns before showdown with Broncos
Rest assured, Bills Mafia. While Allen has been playing at less than 100 percent for some time, he's admittedly trending upward:
"I feel good," Allen said. "Honestly, I feel better now than I have the last few weeks."
Miraculously, getting folded like a lawn chair by the Jaguars' ferocious defense ostensibly helped the wear and tear on Allen's body. It's fair to wonder whether his comments can be taken at face value. Yet, at the same time, it's hard to complain if the four-time Pro Bowler claims he's not just good to go but on the upswing.
Mind over matter. With a trip to the AFC Championship Game on the line, Allen is speaking his improved condition into existence. Let's see if the optimism proves true versus a stifling Broncos stop unit that led the NFL in sacks (68) and pressures (213) this season.
As demonstrated against the Jaguars, you're going to have to drag Allen off the field; he didn't miss a snap despite multiple injury scares. The Bills have since listed him with foot, knee and right finger injuries ahead of their win-or-go-home showdown in Denver. That sounds daunting, but the Buffalo faithful can find solace in his mental fortitude.
Allen knows what's at stake. This may be his best chance to guide the Bills to a Super Bowl in one of the most wide-open playoff races in recent memory. He's fighting for legacy, and it's the survival of the fittest; only the strong survive.
It's no secret that Buffalo needs Allen to continue being a dominant postseason force to reach their ultimate goal of hoisting the Lombardi Trophy.