NFL-NFLPA report states required concussion protocol followed with Bills QB Josh Allen

Allen returned to play after missing just one snap on offense against Houston

During the Buffalo Bills’ Week 5 game against the Houston Texans, quarterback Josh Allen faced near-constant pressure and left the field battered and bruised as a sore complement to Buffalo’s second loss in a row. Regardless of the outcome, the biggest concern for Bills fans watching things unfold in Houston was the health of Allen after a seemingly vicious hit that where his head hit the field turf with a ton of force.

Allen lay motionless for a few moments before being attended to by team medical personnel before making his way to the sideline — and eventually the blue medical tent. All told, Allen would miss just one snap on offense as part of the medical evaluation. Allen would finish his day going 0-of-6 passing after that play and sideline evaluation, and lip readers could see a resolute Allen state “I’m fine” to those asking him about the situation.

In the moment (and in the spotlight after the game), many wondered if proper protocol had been followed regarding head injuries, specifically concussions, as it related to Allen. To be fair, there was never any confirmed news of a head injury for Josh Allen — only speculation on the part of those watching.

Following quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s latest concussion, head injuries and the perceived way the NFL handles such injuries have come under a ton of scrutiny. Had they added more fuel to the fire by improperly managing Josh Allen’s health in Week 5?

The answer is no. According to a report by Tom Pelissero, a joint NFL-NFLPA statement revealed that proper concussion protocol was indeed followed with Josh Allen. This news follows a review of reports from the “Unaffiliated Neurotrauma Consultant and Booth Spotters” by the NFL and NFLPA, which both found that all necessary and proper steps were taken in evaluating Allen and allowing him to return to play.

Immediately following the game, there was no mention of Allen having suffered a head injury of any kind. Instead, Allen simply said that he’d suffered a back injury and that he was no worse for wear beyond the expected and typical variety of ailments.