The Buffalo Bills and Cleveland Browns will face off in Week 2 of the 2026 NFL Preseason at Huntington Bank Stadium. While fans are hoping to see as many starters as possible on the field, it appears that a gentleman’s agreement between Todd Monken and Joe Brady led to a different outcome, meaning Josh Allen and several other starters will not take the field.
This is primarily about preserving the players’ health with the regular-season opener just around the corner. The decision was made following last Thursday’s joint practice, where both coaches were able to see the results they were looking for on the field.
The Browns appear to be exploring other options, and at least at the quarterback position, it looks like both Deshaun Watson and Shedeur Sanders will get the chance to play for the Dawg Pound. Slowly but surely, both teams are beginning to finalize the details of what is expected to be a difficult season.
Respect for Deshaun Watson
The Bills and Browns had an interesting joint practice ahead of their preseason matchup, where Josh Allen and Deshaun Watson went head-to-head on the field in Ohio. The two players have known each other for a long time, and that mutual respect was evident in Allen’s words about his colleague.
Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills participates in drills during training camp.
“Just glad to see him out there,” Allen said to the press. “I know how frustrating that can be to not be out there with your teammates and your brothers and continuing to fight to get back healthy, to get back on the field. And when you get there and then it happens again, so to have that mental resolve. Not a lot of people have that. It’s good to see him healthy again.”
What’s next for the Bills?
The Bills’ preseason debut came against the Carolina Panthers at home, resulting in a 29-14 victory. After their game against the Browns, only one preseason matchup will remain: against the Pittsburgh Steelers at the new Highmark Stadium next Thursday, August 27.
Buffaloes’ first challenges
Being a contender means getting off to a strong start in a season that promises to be highly competitive. Under new head coach Joe Brady, these will be the first challenges facing Bills Mafia starting in Week 1:
- Week 1, at Houston Texans – September 13
- Week 2, vs Detroit Lions – September 17
- Week 3, vs Los Angeles Chargers – September 27
- Week 4, vs New England Patriots – October 4
- Week 5, at Los Angeles Rams – October 12
