In a year that saw the Buffalo Bills navigate turbulent waters—from a heartbreaking divisional-round playoff exit to the Denver Broncos, a coaching change with Joe Brady stepping in as head coach, and Josh Allen undergoing surgery for a broken bone in his right foot—the quarterback’s star power has only intensified. Far from being confined to the gridiron, Allen has transcended the NFL, earning a coveted spot on TIME’s 100 Most Influential People in Global Sports. This honor marks a pivotal moment: the once-underdog prospect from Firebaugh, California, is no longer just Buffalo’s beloved quarterback or an NFL MVP.

He’s evolving into a global icon whose blend of elite performance, genuine humility, and quiet acts of kindness is reshaping the image of what a modern athlete can be.

Allen’s journey to this elevated status feels meteoric yet grounded in consistency. Drafted seventh overall in 2018 after a bumpy college career at Wyoming, he arrived in Buffalo as a raw, cannon-armed dual-threat with questions about accuracy and decision-making. Fast-forward to today, and he’s the defending 2024 NFL MVP, a five-time MVP finalist including 2025, and the face of a franchise that has made seven straight playoff appearances.

In 2025 alone, he threw for 3,668 yards and 25 touchdowns with a 102.2 passer rating, while rushing for 579 yards and 14 scores—making him the only player in league history to hit certain dual-threat benchmarks repeatedly. His jersey topped NFL sales in 2025, outpacing every other player, a testament to his skyrocketing popularity.

But statistics only scratch the surface. What sets Allen apart is the leadership he exudes without fanfare. Teammates describe him as the ultimate competitor who brings energy daily, sacrifices personally for the team, and rallies everyone around a singular goal: winning a Super Bowl. Even amid the 2025 season’s challenges—including injuries to key players and a late-season foot issue he played through—Allen’s resolve never wavered. After the Bills’ 30-33 divisional loss to Denver, he admitted to still feeling “sick to my stomach” weeks later, yet he channeled that pain into motivation.

In press conferences, he spoke of pride in the fight and a commitment to “whatever it takes,” embodying the blue-collar ethos that resonates deeply in Buffalo.

Off the field, Allen’s humility shines brightest. Raised in a small farming town, he remains approachable, often crediting family, coaches, and fans for his success. His signature sign-off—”Be good, do good, God bless, and Go Bills!”—delivered after his 2024 MVP acceptance, has become a mantra for Bills Mafia and beyond. This grounded demeanor contrasts sharply with the flashier personas in sports today, earning admiration from rivals and admirers alike. Stories circulate of him quietly supporting teammates through tough times, mentoring young players like Keon Coleman, and showing up consistently for community events.

The untold chapters of kindness are what truly amplify his influence. Through the Patricia Allen Fund—named in honor of his late grandmother—Allen has directed millions toward cancer research and programs for children with special needs. He’s partnered with brands like New Balance to fund youth sports in underserved areas, including his hometown. During the 2025 season, he wore custom hats designed by young patients at Oishei Children’s Hospital for every home game, then auctioned them off, raising over $139,000 for the hospital.

In one memorable “My Cause, My Cleats” initiative on Thursday Night Football, he incorporated drawings from pediatric patients onto his cleats, carrying their artwork—and their spirits—onto the national stage.

These acts aren’t performative; they’re personal. Allen has granted multiple Make-A-Wish experiences, gifted Special Olympics athletes tickets to major events, and consistently used his platform to spotlight those in need. At a high-profile charity gala, he stunned attendees by announcing a substantial donation—reported in some circles as high as $10 million—to build youth centers, mentorship programs, and educational facilities in Midwest communities.

His message was clear: “Success means nothing if it doesn’t serve others.” In an era where athletes are often scrutinized for self-promotion, Allen’s approach feels refreshingly authentic, inspiring fans, teammates, and even competitors to reflect on their own impact.

This rise hasn’t gone unnoticed globally. TIME’s recognition places him alongside icons who wield influence far beyond their sport. His story resonates internationally because it’s relatable: a kid from a small town who worked relentlessly, stayed humble amid fame, and used his success to lift others. In Buffalo, where winters are harsh and loyalty runs deep, Allen has become more than a quarterback—he’s a symbol of resilience and heart. Bills Mafia chants his name not just for touchdowns, but for the way he represents their values.

As Allen recovers from foot surgery—expected to be fully ready for offseason workouts—and prepares for 2026 under new leadership, the question isn’t whether he’ll continue excelling on the field. It’s how much further his off-field legacy will extend. In redefining athletic greatness, Josh Allen proves that true icons aren’t measured solely by rings or records, but by the lives they touch and the example they set. From Buffalo’s Highmark Stadium to the global stage, his journey is far from over—and the world is watching in awe.