Mike Tomlin Picked Josh Allen as Preferred Quarterback
The Steelers head coach identified the Bills star as his top choice among several elite NFL signal-callers.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Football
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Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has named Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen as his preferred choice to lead a team. Tomlin cited the ability of Allen to perform at his best during critical moments as the primary reason for his selection over peers Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson.
Why it matters
Tomlin provided this assessment amid a dominant start for Allen, who has accounted for nine total touchdowns in his first two games this season. The endorsement highlights the high regard for Allen among veteran coaching circles following his consistent ability to punish defenses.
Josh Allen accounted for five touchdowns against the Detroit Lions, completing 20 of 31 passes for 248 yards and adding 69 rushing yards. The Buffalo Bills scored on five of their first six possessions in the 41-31 victory.
The players
Mike Tomlin
He is the long-tenured head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers who is known for his defensive expertise and personnel evaluation.
Josh Allen
He is the starting quarterback for the Buffalo Bills and is recognized for his dual-threat ability.
Joe Burrow
He is the starting quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals who has led his team to multiple AFC Championship appearances.
Lamar Jackson
He is the starting quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens and a former NFL Most Valuable Player.
The details
Allen demonstrated elite efficiency against the Detroit Lions by throwing three touchdown passes and adding two rushing scores. He proved particularly effective at punishing the Detroit defense whenever it opted to blitz.
Timeline
September 13, 2026: The Buffalo Bills defeated Houston in the season opener.
September 17, 2026: The Buffalo Bills defeated the Detroit Lions with a score of 41-31.
The Big Picture
This development follows a pattern set by the high-scoring offensive performances observed throughout the 2026 NFL season opening stretch.
Allen has accounted for nine total touchdowns in just two games, significantly impacting fantasy football projections and team scoring averages. The Buffalo Bills successfully converted five of their opening six drives against Detroit, reinforcing their status as a high-efficiency offense.
The takeaway
Tomlin's preference underscores the growing value placed on mobile quarterbacks who can exploit defensive blitz packages. Analysts often look to such high-level coaching endorsements as indicators of which skills are currently most coveted for winning NFL championships.
Further reading
For more analysis on current league performances, visit our Football section.
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