NFL analyst Mina Kimes weighed in on the massive contract extension signed by Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, arguing that the deal places more pressure on the team’s front office than on Allen himself.
Why Mina Kimes Believes Allen’s Contract Puts the Heat on Buffalo’s Front Office
In a video clip from ESPN’s First Take posted on X, Kimes was asked whether Allen is the quarterback under the most pressure to win a Super Bowl after his extension. While she acknowledged the expectations on Allen, she argued that his “bargain” contract actually shifts the most pressure onto the Bills’ front office.
“I understand we see that $250 million in guarantees and it sounds like a lot, but he came in average per year under Dak Prescott, who signed his deal [in 2024]. Josh Allen absolutely could have agitated for more,” Kimes said.
Allen’s six-year, $330 million deal, which includes a record-breaking $250 million in guaranteed money, comes with an average annual salary of $55 million—$5 million less than Prescott’s contract with the Dallas Cowboys.
Kimes added, “I know $55 million sounds like a lot. It’s not gonna be a lot in a couple of years. He did that to help his team build, and if they don’t build a better team around him, I would argue that the team, the GM, and the front office deserve a lot of criticism because they put pressure on themselves with this latest extension.”
.@minakimes says that Josh Allen's contract puts the Bills under pressure to win a Super Bowl 👀
“If they don’t build a better team around him, I would argue that the team, the GM, [and] front office deserves a lot of criticism.” pic.twitter.com/PvSDZcxFpL
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 13, 2025
Allen’s Deal Mirrors an AFC East Rival’s Strategy
Allen’s decision to take a contract below the top-tier market value gives the Bills more flexibility to attract talent in free agency—a strategy reminiscent of Tom Brady’s team-friendly deals with the New England Patriots.
Allen made it clear he didn’t want his contract to limit Buffalo’s ability to compete, a rare move that further cements his commitment to winning. Kimes’ take highlights the added pressure on the Bills’ front office to capitalize on this advantage and build a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
How the Bills Are Using Allen’s Contract to Improve the Roster
Buffalo has already started putting its added cap space to use in free agency. The team signed former Los Angeles Chargers wide receiver Josh Palmer and pass rusher Joey Bosa. Palmer replaces Mack Hollins, who signed with the Patriots, while Bosa steps in for the recently released Von Miller.
While some might see Kimes’ stance as letting Allen off the hook, her argument holds weight. The pressure is now on general manager Brandon Beane and the rest of the front office to construct a roster that maximizes Allen’s championship window.
Allen is locked in for the next six seasons, with a potential out before 2030 when he’ll be 34. The big question is whether his physical playing style will hold up as he ages. Will he adapt to a more conservative approach, or will the Bills need to adjust their roster to compensate?
Either way, Buffalo has no excuses. With Allen’s contract structured to help the team win now, it’s on the front office to deliver now more than ever.