Josh Allen continues to rewrite the NFL record books, solidifying his legacy among the greats of the game. The quarterback tied Hall of Fame running back Thurman Thomas for the most career rushing touchdowns (65) in Buffalo Bills history during the team's recent showdown against the New York Jets. This monumental achievement highlights not only Allen's contributions to the franchise but also his remarkable MVP-caliber season, which has seen him score multiple touchdowns and accumulate substantial rushing yards.
On the same note, rookie tight end Brock Bowers from the Las Vegas Raiders is making waves this season, breaking records nearly as fast as he can catch passes. Recognized as one of the top tight ends currently playing, Bowers has amassed 101 receptions and 1,067 receiving yards, leading all tight ends as the Raiders prepare for their upcoming game against the New Orleans Saints. With only two games left this season, Bowers is within reach of breaking historic records, including one that's stood for over six decades.
Against the backdrop of the Raiders' struggles this season—holding just a 3-12 record—Bowers has become a beacon of hope. His recent achievements, including surpassing the all-time record for most receptions by a rookie tight end earlier this month, demonstrate his explosive talent. Looking forward to Week 17, he stands only 10 yards shy of the legendary Mike Ditka's record for most receiving yards by a rookie tight end—1,076 yards, set back in 1961. Speaking to reporters, Bowers humbly noted, "I couldn’t do it without all the other guys. Aidan was slinging it, and everyone was making plays, so it felt good."
While Allen's performance ties him with Thurman Thomas, whose record he's now matched, the comparisons are balanced. Thomas, esteemed as one of the greatest Bills runners, accomplished his formidable career total over 11 seasons, racking up 11,938 rushing yards and 65 touchdowns from 1988 to 1999. Allen's impressive statistics—530 rushing yards and 12 rushing TDs in the current season—have put him firmly among the upper echelon of quarterbacks. He now finds himself at fifth on the Bills’ all-time rushing list, and the conversation continues about whether he could ever achieve the top spot among NFL quarterbacks.
Part of Allen's challenge lies with current record-holder Lamar Jackson, who has amassed 6,110 career rushing yards. Prior to Allen's recent game, he had been seventh overall among NFL quarterbacks for career rushing yards, but with Jackson breaking records of his own, passing figures like Steve Young's 4,239 yards is becoming more feasible.
On Bowers' side, the rookie tight end's season has been historical and marked by milestones. He’s not only chasing Ditka’s record but also the overall record for the most receptions by any rookie, which stands at 105, set by Puka Nacua last season. Bowers needs only five more catches to achieve this feat. His rise as one of the lone bright spots on the struggling Raiders franchise signifies both talent and determination—a breath of fresh air for fans longing for success.
Despite the challenges faced by the Raiders, which include the departure of key players and a tough season overall, Bowers's performance is part of what has kept the team's fans hopeful. With his consistent contributions on the field, it isn't difficult to see how the rookie is valued by both teammates and fans alike.
Looking at the season as it winds down, both Josh Allen and Brock Bowers demonstrate what outstanding performances look like at different stages of their careers—one as a seasoned veteran tying records and the other as a promising rookie on the brink of potential greatness. Their journeys have been marked by milestones, and as they continue pushing forward, the question remains: what records lie within reach as the season draws to its conclusion?