ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Buffalo Bills left tackle Dion Dawkins believes that Josh Allen’s impressive performance this season in the NFL MVP race can be attributed to his recent engagement to actor and singer Hailee Steinfeld. Dawkins commented on how having a supportive partner can bring stability amid the pressures of professional sports.
“Having someone who’s there for you, someone you can come home to and share a laugh with, makes a huge difference,” Dawkins said, highlighting the positive influence that love can have on an athlete. Allen, relishing the stability Steinfeld has brought into his life, acknowledged her significant role in his success. “She’s been an enormous part of my journey, always cheering for me and supporting me,” he noted.
The Bills, currently boasting an impressive 11-3 record, are gearing up to face the New England Patriots (3-11) this Sunday. This season has been a wild ride for the Bills, who have not only secured their fifth consecutive AFC East title, but also triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs, who are sitting at the top of the AFC, and recently celebrated a high-scoring victory over the Detroit Lions.
Interestingly, Allen’s performance has notably heightened since his proposal to Steinfeld on November 22, during the team’s bye week. In the last three games alone, he has racked up an astounding total of 14 touchdowns—seven in the air, six on the ground, and one received. Notably, he had another pass that would have pushed his count to 15, but it was called back due to an offensive holding penalty.
With 37 total touchdowns, Allen is currently tied for the lead in the NFL alongside Lamar Jackson and Joe Burrow. He recently made history as the first player ever to pass for at least three touchdowns and rush for two in consecutive games. The Bills have also been on an offensive tear, amassing 90 points in their last two games. They have recorded at least 30 points in eight consecutive games, tying the NFL record set by Denver in 2013.
Offensive coordinator Joe Brady humorously expressed the desire to feature some of Allen’s unconventional plays in practice, suggesting that showcasing these would enhance the coaching team’s credibility. “It’s all him, though. He makes these fantastic plays look easy,” Brady stated, praising Allen’s fun-loving approach to the game.
Allen and Steinfeld’s relationship began in the spring of 2023, when they were first spotted dining together in New York City. Steinfeld has been a frequent presence at Bills games since then, and the couple have shared moments from their travels, including photos from Paris and their Halloween festivities.
While Allen stopped short of directly mentioning Steinfeld, he reflected on how he is enjoying the best football of his career. “I’m just playing this game like I’ve always done since I was a kid. It’s about having fun,” he remarked.
Dawkins noted that Allen’s enthusiasm is infectious, positively impacting the entire team. “Everyone’s smiling, not just because of the holiday season or our wins, but because the vibe in the locker room is just right,” he said. “Josh leads our team; when he’s on point, we all feel it.”
In other news regarding the team, linebacker Matt Milano is expected to be a limited participant in practice following a groin injury sustained last weekend. Several players, including cornerback Rasul Douglas (knee), safety Damar Hamlin (rib), and safety Taylor Rapp (neck), were also listed as limited after missing action against Detroit. Additionally, wide receiver Curtis Samuel (shoulder) and linebacker Dorian Williams (elbow) are on the limited list as well.