AFC Updates: Josh Allen, Bills, Dolphins, and Jets
Bills
The MVP race is heating up, with Bills QB Josh Allen and Ravens QB Lamar Jackson emerging as the leading candidates. Buffalo’s head coach, Sean McDermott, has publicly backed his quarterback for the prestigious award, citing the immense responsibilities placed on him.
“Josh Allen is the MVP,” McDermott stated, as reported by Eric Edholm of NFL.com. “Having been around the league for many years, I can confidently say that what he has accomplished for this team, this organization, and this community is unparalleled. No offense to others, but I struggle to believe anyone has done more.”
After their Week 17 victory, Allen was asked if he believed he had done enough to clinch MVP honors, but he downplayed the question.
“I don’t really care about that,” Allen remarked. “The defense was outstanding. I’m watching the Coop highlights. He and Keon delivered fantastic plays today.”
- The Bills conducted workouts with DB Tyrell Ford and WR Makai Polk on Tuesday, according to Aaron Wilson.
Dolphins
Dolphins HC Mike McDaniel is uncertain about whether QB Tua Tagovailoa will participate in Week 18 and provided insights regarding his absence in Week 17.
“Ultimately, he absolutely wanted to play. It wasn’t just a matter of pain tolerance,” McDaniel explained, as covered by Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald. “He was at serious risk for a more significant injury, and his lack of strength, due to the injury, prevented him from effectively protecting himself and his teammates in the pocket. From a medical standpoint, playing was not an option.”
- Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer has reported rumors about possible front office changes in Indianapolis, although there is no solid information on GM Chris Grier‘s future.
- McDaniel indicated that Tagovailoa’s condition is in a “gray area, firmly in the unknown,” and emphasized that his recovery is “all about time.” (Cameron Wolfe)
- Additionally, McDaniel noted that QB Tyler Huntley will receive more first-team reps than Tagovailoa in the upcoming week. (Wolfe)
Jets
The Jets suffered a devastating defeat to Buffalo in Week 17, falling behind 40-0, which brought their record to 4-12. New York CB Sauce Gardner expressed concerns that some players may have mentally checked out now that the playoffs are out of reach.
“If you ask me, it’s like the end of the season. Obviously, we’re not heading to the playoffs, and some people might have checked out,” Gardner said, as reported by Josh Alper of Pro Football Talk. “That’s just my speculation.”
“We improved our roster in every area, which makes this disappointing. It feels like we’re not playing as a cohesive team. In past seasons, despite having less talent, we managed to beat the Bills and win games. So why are we struggling now with a more talented roster?”
afc-notes-josh-allen-bills-dolphins-jets
#AFC #Notes #Josh #Allen #Bills #Dolphins #Jets