4 takeaways from Bills stadium practice: Josh Allen wears black hat, gets hero’s welcome

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. (WIVB) — In an event marketed as Return of the Blue and Red, marquee attraction Josh Allen came back in black.

Continuing his tradition of wearing an alternate helmet for the Buffalo Bills’ open practice at Highmark Stadium, the star quarterback turned heads on Friday night sporting one with a matte black base, red standing buffalo logo with matching stripe and face mask, accessorized by an iridescent sunset visor.

In past years, Allen has worn shimmering red and blue helmets. While there is no indication that the Bills will wear the alternate helmets in a game any time soon, fans told WIVB News 4 reporter Marlee Tuskes that Allen’s fashion statements have become their favorite part of the annual stadium practice.

Allen further pleased the crowd by taking a lap around the field while playing catch with fans during warmups.

Here are three more takeaways from the home visit before the Bills return to St. John Fisher for the remainder of training camp.

Counting the house

The Bills announced a record crowd of 36,136 attending the practice. Admission was free, but fans were required to reserve tickets ahead of time. Last year’s event drew about 35,000 fans.

The team opened the upper seating areas, expecting a crowd of more than 40,000 based on RSVPs. Rainy weather and rush hour traffic likely dampened turnout.

Still, the gathering was much larger than what can fit into the grandstands and around the fences at St. John Fisher. And the spectators made their presence felt.

Good night for D

After the thrill of Allen’s black and red helmet subsided, the Bills defense, wearing home blue jerseys, provided more highlights than the offense.

Cornerback Kaiir Elam continued his strong training camp with an interception against Allen in 7-on-7 drills. Deion Jones also had a pick during that period. Elam later leapt to knock a pass away from receiver Bryan Thompson. Taron Johnson broke up an Allen pass in the red zone and tackled rookie runner Ray Davis for a loss.

Allen was able to connect with tight ends Dalton Kinaid and Dawson Knox for touchdowns. Davis broke off a long run but also had a fumble, his third of camp.

Injuries

Rookie linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio was helped off the field by trainers after appearing to hurt his arm make a tackle at the goal line. Linebacker Nicholas Morrow also went to the locker room late in practice. Top defenders Matt Milano and Von Miller did not partake in team drills.

Receivers Mack Hollins and Justin Shorter were both able to return to practice after going to the sidelines.

Non-participants: safeties Mike Edwards (hamstring) and Cole Bishop (shoulder), receiver Chase Claypool (toe), running back Ty Johnson (hamstring), offensive lineman La’El Collins (knee) and Travis Clayton (shoulder).