30-Year-Old Backup QB Signs Deal with Former Team in Buffalo
Last season, after spending the 2024 campaign as a backup with the Pittsburgh Steelers, veteran quarterback Kyle Allen signed with the Detroit Lions ahead of the 2025 season. Allen spent much of the year providing depth in Detroit’s quarterback room while continuing to build experience across multiple offensive systems. Now back in free agency, the 30-year-old quarterback is preparing for his next opportunity in the league. According to reports from Adam Schefter, Allen has agreed to terms with the Buffalo Bills on a two-year deal, worth up to six million dollars, as the team continues to shape its roster and push towards a Lombardi Trophy ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Allen entered the NFL after finishing his college career at the University of Houston, after previously beginning his collegiate career at Texas A&M University. Although he went undrafted in 2018, he signed with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent and eventually saw starting opportunities during the 2019 season. Allen was later traded to the Washington Commanders, where he spent the 2020 and 2021 seasons before joining the Houston Texans in 2022 and appearing in several games, including a handful of starts. He continued his career as a backup with the Buffalo Bills in 2023 and the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2024. Most recently, Allen signed with the Detroit Lions in 2025, adding another chapter to a career that has seen him gain experience in several offensive systems across the league. 2026 will give Allen a sense of familiarity, reuniting with his close friend and fellow QB, Josh Allen.
Looking ahead, Allen will have the chance to compete for his place on the roster and continue building his career in the NFL. Kyle Allen will not take the job from Josh Allen, but the backup spot is his for the taking as Mitchell Trubisky’s contract expired. Throughout Kyle’s time in the league, the veteran QB has appeared in 31 games with 19 starts, throwing for 4,753 passing yards while completing 442 of 705 attempts. During that stretch, he recorded 26 touchdowns and 21 interceptions, showing that he can step in and manage an offense when needed. While he has primarily served as a backup during his career, that experience can be valuable for teams looking for a steady option behind their starter. Quarterback situations can change quickly across the league, so having someone with Allen’s experience could make a difference if the opportunity arises during the 2026 season.
