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Josh Allen Sits Out Preseason Finale, Ready for Ravens

8/22/2025

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Summary

Allen's Preseason Absence

Josh Allen will not participate in the preseason finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking his first preseason absence.
Coach Sean McDermott highlighted the need to protect Allen for the regular season and expressed confidence in his readiness.
The Bills will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1 on September 7, where Allen is anticipated to debut.
Receiver competition is fierce, with Curtis Samuel's position uncertain due to injuries.
McDermott noted that some starters may play against the Buccaneers, with decisions made on a case-by-case basis.

Summary

Bears Face Chiefs

The Chicago Bears will play the Kansas City Chiefs in their preseason finale on August 22, 2025, at 7:20 p.m. CT.
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams is anticipated to participate, while Chiefs coach Andy Reid confirmed that starters will play despite injuries.
The game will be aired on FOX 32 and ESPN Chicago.

History

Historical Context

In 2011, the NFL introduced a collective bargaining agreement that reduced preseason games from four to three, responding to a 20% rise in player injuries during the 2010 season. This shift reflects ongoing concerns about player safety, as seen in Josh Allen's absence from the preseason finale. The change may influence how teams like the Bills and Bears manage player participation in future preseason games.

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Allen's Preseason Absence

Josh Allen will not participate in the preseason finale against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, marking his first preseason absence.
Coach Sean McDermott highlighted the need to protect Allen for the regular season and expressed confidence in his readiness.
The Bills will face the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1 on September 7, where Allen is anticipated to debut.
Receiver competition is fierce, with Curtis Samuel's position uncertain due to injuries.
McDermott noted that some starters may play against the Buccaneers, with decisions made on a case-by-case basis.

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