Is Josh Allen really changing his jersey number for the 2026 NFL season?

A routine offseason roster update from the Buffalo Bills quickly caught fans' attention online, as several players are changing jersey numbers for the 2026 season - including a quarterback named Allen. But it isn't star QB Josh Allen. Instead, backup quarterback Kyle Allen will wear No. 11 this season, a change that initially led some fans to believe Buffalo's MVP quarterback had switched numbers.

Earlier this week, the Bills shared a social media update announcing a few jersey number changes heading into the 2026 NFL season.

Among the updates, recently signed edge rusher Bradley Chubb revealed that he will wear No. 9 with Buffalo.

Chubb joined the team during the offseason after previously playing for the Miami Dolphins.

The veteran defender signed a three-year contract worth $43.5 million with the Bills, giving the team another experienced presence on the defensive front.

Buffalo also confirmed that cornerback Dee Alford, who previously played for the Atlanta Falcons, will wear No. 23 after signing a three-year deal.

The announcement generated confusion among some fans because it also included a jersey change involving a player named Allen.

Many initially assumed it referred to Josh Allen, Buffalo's franchise quarterback.

However, the update actually involved Kyle Allen, who will switch to No. 11. It is not known whether the Bills will opt to use 'J. Allen' and 'K. Allen' from now on.

A frustrating season, but Allen sticks with jersey number

Josh Allen will keep his familiar No. 17 jersey. The offseason roster adjustments come at a pivotal moment for Buffalo following another painful postseason exit.

Despite another strong year from Josh Allen, the Bills were eliminated in the Divisional Round of the playoffs once again.

The loss extended a frustrating postseason trend for a team that has consistently been among the AFC's top contenders but has yet to break through for a Super Bowl appearance during Allen's tenure.

Allen himself had a productive 2025 season. The quarterback threw for 3,668 yards, 25 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions while completing 69.3 percent of his passes.

He started all 17 games despite suffering a broken foot late in the season.

The injury required surgery in January, though reports indicated the procedure was successful and that Allen is expected to recover fully ahead of the upcoming season.

Buffalo's offseason has already included major changes beyond jersey numbers.

Following the playoff loss, the Bills made a significant coaching move by parting ways with longtime head coach Sean McDermott after nine seasons leading the team.

The organization promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to become the new head coach, signaling a new direction for the franchise.

Allen took responsibility for the team's postseason struggles in comments after the playoff exit, acknowledging that he believed he could have done more to help the team advance.

The quarterback has also faced scrutiny for Buffalo's record in high-pressure situations. Allen currently holds a 0-7 career record in overtime games, a statistic that has fueled ongoing debate among fans and analysts.

A pivotal moment for Josh Allen

The 2026 season could be one of the most important of Allen's career.

Buffalo remains firmly in its championship window, but the team is under pressure to finally turn regular-season success into a deep postseason run.

The hiring of Joe Brady as head coach suggests the Bills want to maintain offensive continuity while introducing new leadership after nearly a decade under McDermott.

Adding Chubb will also strengthen the defense and help Buffalo compete in an AFC that continues to feature elite quarterbacks and high-powered offenses.

For Allen, the goal is clear. Once he recovers fully from foot surgery, he will build chemistry with the updated roster, and finally lead the Bills past the playoff hurdle that has stopped them in recent seasons.