How Many Josh Allens Are There In The NFL

If you follow the NFL even a little, you may have heard the name Josh Allen more than once and wondered if it was the same person. The short answer is that there are two star players in today’s NFL named Josh Allen. One is a quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, and the other is a pass rusher (an edge defender) for the Jacksonville Jaguars. They play completely different positions, wear different jersey numbers, and even faced each other in one of the most unusual games in NFL history. This guide will explain who they are, how to tell them apart, and why their shared name has become a fun running joke among football fans.

Quick Answer: How Many Josh Allens Are There in the NFL?

There are currently two active NFL players named Josh Allen. One is the Buffalo Bills’ quarterback, who wears number 17. The other is the Jacksonville Jaguars’ edge rusher, who wears number 41. They are not related. They were also drafted seventh overall in back-to-back years, which adds a strange and memorable twist to their shared name story.

There have been other athletes with the name Josh Allen in football at various levels, including college and brief NFL practice squad appearances in the past. But when people talk about “Josh Allen” in the NFL today, they almost always mean one of these two stars.

Meet Josh Allen, the Buffalo Bills Quarterback

Basic Profile and Background

Josh Allen the quarterback plays for the Buffalo Bills and wears jersey number 17. He was drafted seventh overall in the 2018 NFL Draft out of the University of Wyoming. Before college, he grew up in Firebaugh, California, and was not a big-name recruit. His climb from a small town to NFL stardom is one of the league’s most inspiring stories.

He stands about 6 foot 5 and is a powerful athlete with a huge arm. Early in his career, some doubted his accuracy and decision-making. Over time, he developed into one of the NFL’s most dangerous dual-threat quarterbacks, capable of beating teams with both his arm and his legs.

What a Quarterback Does

For new fans, the quarterback is the leader of the offense. He receives the snap, throws the football to receivers, hands it off to running backs, and makes changes to the play at the line of scrimmage. The quarterback must read the defense, stay calm under pressure, and make quick choices. When the play breaks down, a mobile quarterback like Josh Allen can run the ball and create big plays out of nothing.

Playing Style and Strengths

Josh Allen is known for his arm strength, which allows him to throw deep passes that many quarterbacks cannot attempt. He can drive the ball through tight windows and attack any area of the field. He is also a physical runner who is tough to tackle. You will often see him scramble to escape pressure or keep the ball on designed runs near the goal line. His size and athletic ability make him a nightmare for defenses, especially on third downs and in the red zone.

While he can make spectacular plays, he sometimes takes risks. Early in his career it led to turnovers, but he has grown into a more balanced player. Even so, he remains an aggressive decision-maker, which is part of what makes him so exciting to watch.

Career Highlights in Simple Terms

Josh Allen helped turn the Bills into a regular playoff team. He led them to multiple division titles and deep postseason runs, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game after the 2020 season. In that 2020 season, he set Buffalo franchise records for passing yards and passing touchdowns, showing a huge jump from his first two years. Since then, he has consistently ranked near the top of the league in total touchdowns when combining passing and rushing scores.

He has earned many honors and is often in the conversation for league MVP. Even when the Bills start slowly, Allen’s late-season pushes and clutch plays have carried the team to wins. If you see Buffalo in prime time, you are likely to see Josh Allen make at least one throw or run that brings the crowd to its feet.

Key Stats to Remember

You do not need to memorize a long list of numbers to understand his impact. Just remember that Josh Allen regularly throws for thousands of yards each year and accounts for a high number of combined touchdowns through the air and on the ground. He is one of the NFL’s most productive quarterbacks and a true franchise cornerstone for the Bills.

Meet Josh Allen, the Jacksonville Jaguars Edge Rusher

Basic Profile and Background

Josh Allen the defender plays for the Jacksonville Jaguars and wears jersey number 41. He was drafted seventh overall in the 2019 NFL Draft out of the University of Kentucky. Like the Bills’ Josh Allen, he is about 6 foot 5, but he plays on defense and focuses on attacking the quarterback rather than being one.

At Kentucky, he blossomed into one of college football’s most feared pass rushers. That success carried into the NFL, where he made an immediate impact as a rookie and grew into a leader for the Jaguars’ defense.

What an Edge Rusher Does

An edge rusher is a defender who lines up near the end of the line of scrimmage and tries to sack the quarterback or stop runs to the outside. In modern football, beating the offensive tackle off the edge and pressuring the quarterback is one of the most important skills a defense can have. A great edge rusher forces bad throws, creates turnovers, and can ruin an offense’s game plan.

To understand common terms: a “sack” is when a defender tackles the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage before he can throw. A “pressure” is when a defender hurries the quarterback into making a mistake or throwing early. Edge rushers also have to set the edge in the run game, keeping runners from getting outside.

Playing Style and Strengths

Josh Allen of the Jaguars wins with burst, bend, and length. He fires off the ball quickly, dips around offensive tackles, and closes fast on quarterbacks. He has developed a nice mix of moves, so he is not only a speed rusher. He plays with a high motor, chases from the backside, and is strong enough to hold up against the run.

As he has matured, he has become more consistent. He does not rely only on physical gifts; he studies opposing linemen’s habits and attacks their weaknesses during the game.

Career Highlights in Simple Terms

Josh Allen made the Pro Bowl early in his career and returned to that level with a huge breakout season in 2023. In that 2023 season, he set the Jaguars’ single-season sack mark with 17.5 sacks, putting himself among the most productive pass rushers in the league. He helped lead the Jaguars to meaningful late-season games, powered by steady pressure and big-play moments.

Following that performance, Jacksonville committed to him as a long-term cornerstone by signing him to a major contract extension. That tells you everything about how the team values him and expects him to continue to be a game-changing defender.

Key Stats to Remember

If you are new to defensive stats, focus on sacks and pressures. Josh Allen has produced double-digit sacks in multiple seasons and regularly ranks high in pressures and quarterback hits. When you see highlights of Jaguars wins, you will often see number 41 celebrating a big sack or forcing a turnover.

Same Name, Different Game: How to Tell Them Apart

Positions and Roles

The Bills’ Josh Allen is a quarterback on offense. He throws the ball and runs the offense. The Jaguars’ Josh Allen is an edge rusher on defense. He tries to hit or sack the quarterback. If the broadcast says “Josh Allen throws deep” or shows someone wearing number 17, it is the Bills’ quarterback. If you hear “Josh Allen with the sack” or see number 41 harassing a quarterback, it is the Jaguars’ defender.

Jersey Numbers, Colors, and Uniform Cues

Buffalo’s Josh Allen wears number 17. The Bills’ colors are royal blue, red, and white. Jacksonville’s Josh Allen wears number 41. The Jaguars’ colors are teal, black, and gold. Look at the number first, then the color of the jersey. Seventeen in blue is the quarterback; forty-one in teal or black is the defender.

That Draft Coincidence

Both players were drafted seventh overall in back-to-back drafts. The Bills took Josh Allen (QB) at number seven in 2018. The Jaguars took Josh Allen (EDGE) at number seven in 2019. That kind of coincidence is rare and part of why their shared name is so memorable in NFL circles.

Sizes and Playing Shapes

Both are tall, athletic, and powerful. The quarterback is around 6 foot 5 and a bit over 230 pounds, with a build that allows him to run through tackles. The edge rusher is around 6 foot 5 and closer to the mid-250s, built to take on offensive linemen and explode around the corner. On the field, the difference is clear once you notice which side of the ball they are on and how they move before the snap.

The Day Josh Allen Faced Josh Allen

What Happened in the Jaguars vs. Bills 2021 Game

In November 2021, the Jaguars and Bills played in Jacksonville. The game turned into a defensive struggle that the Jaguars won 9–6, a shock to many fans and analysts. But the headline was what Jacksonville’s Josh Allen did to Buffalo’s Josh Allen. He sacked him, intercepted him, and recovered a fumble from him—all in the same game.

This was the first time in NFL history a player sacked a quarterback with the exact same name. The defender’s big day helped the Jaguars pull off the upset and created a set of highlights that went viral across sports media.

Why That Game Was Historic

Beyond the rarity of the same-name matchup, the defender’s stat line was truly special for any game. A sack, an interception, and a fumble recovery are difficult to put together against any quarterback, much less one of the league’s best. Doing it against a namesake made it unforgettable.

What Fans Learned From That Matchup

That game taught fans a few lessons. First, any NFL team can beat another on any given Sunday, especially when a star pass rusher dominates. Second, a name can be fun, but roles decide outcomes—defense can control the game if it wins up front. Finally, it proved that the Jaguars’ Josh Allen is a top-level defender who can take over a game, and the Bills’ Josh Allen, as great as he is, is still human under heavy pressure.

Why the Name Confusion Happens

Media, Apps, and Shortcuts

Sports shows, highlight reels, and social media snippets often move fast. They might say “Josh Allen with the score!” or “Josh Allen with the sack!” without adding team or position. Fantasy football apps may abbreviate names or show only “J. Allen” on screen. That is especially confusing because there is also a “J. Allen” quarterback in the league named Kyle Allen and a star defensive tackle for Washington named Jonathan Allen. Always look for the team or jersey number to be sure.

How Broadcasters Usually Handle It

Most broadcasters try to avoid confusion by saying “Bills quarterback Josh Allen” or “Jaguars linebacker Josh Allen.” When you hear the team or role first, it becomes easy to follow. Listen for those cues when you are learning the game.

Fantasy Football Tips: Two Josh Allens, Two Very Different Values

For Standard Offense-Only Leagues

In typical fantasy leagues that draft only offensive players (QB, RB, WR, TE, and so on), the only Josh Allen you can draft is the Bills’ quarterback. He is often one of the top quarterbacks off the board because he is a prolific passer and an excellent rusher near the goal line, which boosts his weekly points.

For IDP Leagues With Defensive Players

In IDP (Individual Defensive Player) leagues, you can draft defensive players too. That is where the Jaguars’ Josh Allen becomes fantasy relevant. He is a strong option at defensive line or linebacker because he produces sacks, tackles for loss, and pressures. If your league rewards big plays, he can swing matchups with a single sack or forced fumble.

Draft Room Advice

When you search “Josh Allen” in your draft app, double-check the team abbreviation. BUF is the quarterback. JAX is the edge rusher. If the app lists position, look for QB versus LB or DE. Double-check before you click draft so you do not accidentally pick the wrong one.

How to Talk About Them Without Getting Mixed Up

Use Team Names or Positions

The simplest method is to say “Bills Josh Allen” or “Jaguars Josh Allen.” You can also say “Josh Allen the quarterback” or “Josh Allen the pass rusher.” If you use that format with friends, everyone will know who you mean.

Use Jersey Numbers as a Shortcut

If you are watching a game with friends and someone says “Josh Allen,” just ask for the number. Seventeen is the QB for Buffalo. Forty-one is the defender for Jacksonville. Numbers are fast and universal, and they make conversations during live plays a lot easier.

Beginner-Friendly Football Terms Explained

Quarterback

The offensive leader who throws passes, hands off to runners, and makes pre-snap decisions. The quarterback tries to move the team down the field and score touchdowns.

Edge Rusher

A defender who lines up on the outside of the formation and tries to pressure or sack the quarterback. Edge rushers are key to stopping passing attacks and forcing turnovers.

Sack

A tackle of the quarterback behind the line of scrimmage before he throws the ball. Sacks kill drives and can change field position dramatically.

Interception

When a defender catches a pass intended for an offensive player. Interceptions often lead to big momentum swings or easy scoring chances for the defense’s offense.

Fumble and Fumble Recovery

A fumble happens when a player loses control of the ball while running or being tackled. A fumble recovery occurs when either team grabs the loose ball. Recovering a fumble stops the other team’s drive and can set up quick points.

Fun Coincidences and Trivia

Back-to-Back, Seventh Overall

It is rare enough to have two star players with the same name at the same time. It is even rarer for both to be drafted seventh overall in consecutive years. That is a piece of trivia you can share with friends, and it always gets a surprised reaction from new fans.

Small School Versus Power Conference

The quarterback came from Wyoming, a smaller program that does not always get national attention. He used his big arm and rare athleticism to rise up draft boards. The defender came from Kentucky, a school in the SEC, the most high-profile conference in college football. Despite the different paths, both became first-round picks and leaders for their teams.

Personality and Leadership

Both Joshes are known as respected leaders in their locker rooms. The quarterback is passionate, competitive, and a visible face of the Bills franchise. The edge rusher is energetic, vocal, and a tone-setter for the Jaguars’ defense. They are praised by coaches and teammates for their work ethic and team-first approach.

Spotting Each Josh Allen on TV

Before the Snap

If you see a player standing behind the center ready to take the snap, that is the quarterback, number 17 for Buffalo. If you see a player crouched on the edge of the defensive line, outside the offensive tackle and ready to rush, that is the defender, number 41 for Jacksonville.

During the Play

When the ball is thrown deep, look for number 17 launching it. When a player bursts around the edge and grabs the quarterback, check for number 41 celebrating the sack. Watching their roles during plays will quickly train your eye to identify them without any confusion.

How Stat Sites and Apps List Them

Common Labels

Most websites and apps show the team in parentheses, like “Josh Allen (BUF)” for the quarterback and “Josh Allen (JAX)” for the edge rusher. You may also see position tags such as QB for the Bills’ player and LB or DE for the Jaguars’ player. Some sites add a helpful tag in the name line, like “Josh Allen, QB” versus “Josh Allen, OLB.”

Search Tips

If you search for highlights or news, try “Josh Allen Bills QB” or “Josh Allen Jaguars EDGE.” Adding the team and position gives you cleaner results and avoids mixed headlines. This is especially useful after game days when both players may have made big plays.

Each Josh Allen’s Place in Today’s NFL

The Quarterback as a Modern Star

The Bills’ Josh Allen is part of a new wave of quarterbacks who threaten defenses with both passing and running. Teams must account for designed runs, scrambles, and deep shots down the field. He is often the center of Buffalo’s game plan, and opponents design entire defenses just to slow him down.

The Edge Rusher as a Game Wrecker

The Jaguars’ Josh Allen shows why pass rushers are highly valued. Sacks are not the only goal; pressure affects timing, forces turnovers, and disrupts every part of an offense. When he wins his matchups, Jacksonville’s whole defense looks better. His rise in 2023 and long-term deal show he is a pillar of the Jaguars’ competitive window.

Common Questions Fans Ask

Are they related?

No, the two Josh Allens are not related. They share the same name, and that is where the connection ends.

Have they met or interacted?

They have shared the field when the Bills and Jaguars played, and they have acknowledged each other in interviews and social media. There is mutual respect between them, which fans enjoy seeing.

Could they ever be on the same team?

In the NFL, anything is possible over a long enough timeline, especially with trades and free agency. For now, each is a franchise building block for his current team. If they ever became teammates, it would create even more fun headlines and would definitely require broadcasters to use positions or nicknames to avoid confusion.

Which one is more famous?

The quarterback position draws the most attention in football, so the Bills’ Josh Allen is usually more visible in national media. However, the Jaguars’ Josh Allen is a true star on defense and is widely recognized by fans and analysts as a top edge rusher, especially after his record-setting 2023 season.

Have there been other players named Josh Allen in the NFL?

Over the years, players with that name have appeared in college football and on NFL practice squads or offseason rosters. But in terms of current active impact players, the two you will hear about are the Bills’ quarterback and the Jaguars’ edge rusher.

Why This Topic Matters for New Fans

Learning the Game Through a Fun Example

Understanding the two Josh Allens is a simple way to learn positions, stats, and roles. By comparing a quarterback to an edge rusher, you learn how offenses try to score and how defenses try to stop them. Watching highlights of both players will teach you what big-time plays look like on each side of the ball.

Better Game-Day Conversations

When you know which Josh Allen is being discussed, it is easier to follow analysis from commentators and friends. You can jump into game-day chats with more confidence and enjoy the action without confusion.

A Simple Cheat Sheet You Can Remember

The Fast Facts

Two active NFL players are named Josh Allen. The Bills’ Josh Allen is a quarterback wearing number 17. The Jaguars’ Josh Allen is a pass rusher wearing number 41. The quarterback throws and runs for touchdowns. The defender sacks quarterbacks and forces turnovers. They were drafted seventh overall in back-to-back years. They once faced each other in a game where the defender sacked, intercepted, and recovered a fumble from the quarterback, making NFL history.

Storylines to Watch Going Forward

Buffalo’s Championship Push

The Bills are chasing a Super Bowl, and their Josh Allen is central to that goal. Each season brings a new chance for him to add to his legacy with clutch throws and tough runs. His talent keeps the Bills in the contender conversation year after year.

Jacksonville’s Defensive Rise

The Jaguars are building a defense around their Josh Allen’s pass-rushing force. With his ability to create sacks and pressures, Jacksonville can win tight games and bother even the best quarterbacks. As he continues in his prime, the Jaguars’ defense should remain a dangerous unit.

How Broadcasters Might Phrase It, and What It Means

“Josh Allen delivers a strike down the middle.”

This is the Bills’ quarterback, number 17, making a strong throw to a receiver. If you see a blue jersey and a deep pass, that is your clue.

“Josh Allen comes off the edge for the sack.”

This is the Jaguars’ defender, number 41, beating an offensive tackle and taking the quarterback down behind the line. If you see a teal or black jersey screaming off the corner, that is the edge rusher.

Why Both Josh Allens Are Easy to Root For

Work Ethic and Improvement

The quarterback worked hard to improve accuracy, decision-making, and timing. He turned early career questions into strengths. The defender sharpened his pass-rush moves and consistency, turning tools into steady production. Fans respect players who grow and adapt, and both Joshes have done exactly that.

Leadership and Community

Each is a leader in his locker room and a presence in the community. They represent their franchises well and bring energy to their teams. It is common to see both involved in charity events or local initiatives, and that builds strong bonds with their fan bases.

Recapping the Name Game in One Go

The Clear Picture

There are two standout NFL players named Josh Allen. One is the Buffalo Bills’ quarterback, number 17, a big-armed, tough runner who leads a high-powered offense. The other is the Jacksonville Jaguars’ edge rusher, number 41, a fast, relentless defender who sacks quarterbacks and wrecks drives. They are not related, they were drafted seventh overall one year apart, and they shared a historic game where defense beat offense in a same-name showdown.

Conclusion

So, how many Josh Allens are there in the NFL? There are two, and each is a star in his own right. The Bills’ Josh Allen is one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in football, blending deep passing and physical running to carry his team. The Jaguars’ Josh Allen is a top-tier edge rusher, using speed and power to pressure quarterbacks and create turnovers. They play different roles, wear different numbers, and perform different jobs, but both shape games and seasons for their teams.

If you are new to football, use this name coincidence as a gateway to learning positions and game flow. Watch the quarterback lead drives and the edge rusher try to stop them. By keeping an eye on jersey numbers and team colors, you will never mix them up again. And the next time someone asks, “How many Josh Allens are in the NFL?” you can answer with confidence, add a few cool facts about their careers, and maybe even mention that unforgettable day when Josh Allen sacked Josh Allen. Two players, same name, big impact—welcome to one of the NFL’s most entertaining quirks.