The Five Biggest "What Ifs" of the Josh Allen Era

July 22, 2026 - 13:03

From pivotal trades to career-defining leaps, examine the sliding-door moments that transformed a struggling franchise into a powerhouse and nearly altered the course of Buffalo football history.

The Josh Allen era in Buffalo has been a wild ride, full of improbable throws, dramatic wins, and a Super Bowl window that has stayed open for years. But for every highlight, there is a moment that could have changed everything. Here are the five biggest "what ifs" that still haunt the minds of Bills fans.

First, what if the front office had not traded up to draft Allen in 2018? The Bills gave up two second-round picks to move from 12th overall to 7th. If they had stayed put, they might have ended up with Josh Rosen or Lamar Jackson. That single decision reshaped the entire franchise.

Second, what if Allen had not made the massive leap in 2020? After a shaky rookie season and an inconsistent sophomore year, many analysts had written him off. If he had stayed average, the Bills would likely be searching for a quarterback right now instead of competing for titles.

Third, what if the Bills had beaten the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2021 AFC Championship game? That 38-24 loss in Arrowhead was painful, but the game was closer than the score. A win there would have sent Allen to his first Super Bowl against a beatable Rams team.

Fourth, what if the "13 seconds" game in 2022 had gone differently? With 13 seconds left and a three-point lead, the defense collapsed. If the Bills had simply kicked the ball deep or played prevent defense, they likely would have advanced to another AFC title game.

Finally, what if Stefon Diggs had not forced his way out of town? The 2024 trade to Houston removed Allen's top weapon. Without Diggs, the offense has struggled for consistency. Keeping that connection might have been the difference between a playoff exit and a championship run.

These moments define the era. One bounce, one call, one decision could have rewritten history. Instead, Buffalo is left wondering what might have been.