The New England Patriots are gearing up for the Super Bowl, while the Buffalo Bills, led by quarterback Josh Allen, will be sidelined this time. In a recent CBS interview, Allen revealed that although he rarely watches the Super Bowl, this year he plans to watch because of his friendship with Sam Darnold, who is playing in the championship game for the Patriots seeking their seventh title.
Respect Despite Rivalry Between Players and Coaches
While Allen made it clear that as both a Bills player and fan he isn’t rooting for the Patriots, he expressed considerable admiration for the Patriots’ roster and coaching staff, highlighting Mike Vrabel in particular. Allen called Vrabel a fantastic coach and person, demonstrating the respect that exists despite the fierce competition between the teams.
As a Bill and a Bills fan, I don’t know if anyone is going to be rooting for the Pats,
Allen said on Tuesday.
With that being said, I’ve got so much love and respect for a lot of guys on that team, coach Vrabel included. He’s a fantastic coach. He’s a fantastic person.
?Josh Allen, Bills Quarterback
Allen’s Quest for an AFC Title Continues
Josh Allen remains one of the league’s top quarterbacks and came into this season with expectations that the Bills would finally surpass the AFC hurdle. However, the Patriots secured the AFC East division this year and reached the Super Bowl, forcing Allen to postpone his championship ambitions for at least one more season. The Bills and Patriots split their regular-season games, setting the stage for an ongoing rivalry, especially with young players like Drake Maye now emerging for the Patriots.
Shared History of Allen and Darnold Adds Personal Dimension
Allen and Sam Darnold, who plays for the Patriots, entered the NFL in the same 2018 draft class—Darnold was picked third overall by the New York Jets, while Allen was selected seventh by the Bills. Although their paths have diverged, this personal connection is part of the reason Allen intends to watch the game despite the usual rivalry tension.
Looking Ahead to Future AFC East Battles
With the Patriots advancing to the Super Bowl and the Bills aiming to rebuild and challenge again, the AFC East appears poised for intense future competition. Allen’s respect for the Patriots illustrates the complex relationship between rival teams, suggesting that while the rivalry is fierce on the field, mutual respect among players and coaches remains strong.
"I love Sam Darnold, [he] is one of my good buddies. I will be rooting him on."@JoshAllenQB is excited to watch his good friend Sam Darnold play in the Super Bowl.
Watch the full interview with Josh Allen and @Hassel_Chris on the CBS Sports YouTube channel.… pic.twitter.com/fixgavnQQ5
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) February 4, 2026
