Josh Allen, Taylor Swift. Cooper Neill/Getty Images
Did Taylor Swift truly serve as the inspiration for Josh Allen's audible call in week 8 of the NFL? In the Buffalo Bills vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers game on Thursday, October 26, video footage of Allen, aged 27, spread across social media as fans believed they heard the quarterback exclaim "Taylor Swift" during a 2nd down play in the early stages of the first quarter. However, Allen clarified that he was actually shouting "J.R. Smith," a retired basketball player, in an interview with People.
"It's like... resembling that dress, isn't it? Was it white and gold or blue and black?" Allen remarked, referencing the famous black-and-blue or white-and-gold dress debate from 2015. "I'm not saying we won't have a Taylor Swift reference, but for that particular clip, I mentioned J.R. Smith." He further mentioned that the Bills might incorporate Swift's name as an audible "at some point during a later game" in the season.
Ever since Swift, aged 33, was romantically linked to Travis Kelce, the tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs in September, the NFL has extensively covered the popular "Shake It Off" singer. Allen shared with People that he believes the media attention is "clearly beneficial for the brand."
"I believe it has captivated a significant audience to our endeavors, and in this industry, one must either progress or decline," he remarked.
Furthermore, he mentioned that he makes an effort to "not overly focus" on the extensive media coverage surrounding Swift. Although Allen "comprehends" the rationale "from a business standpoint," his commitment lies in striving to be "the finest quarterback possible."
Allen's personal life has been quite publicly disclosed. In May, the NFL star ignited speculation of a romantic involvement with Hailee Steinfeld after being seen together in New York City. Later, in July, they were captured in photographs sharing a kiss, further fueling the rumors.
In the month of August, while appearing on the podcast "Pardon My Take," Allen expressed his astonishment, stating, "It still amazes me that anyone would find that important."
According to an exclusive source, in July, Steinfeld, who is 26 years old, is approaching the situation with Allen without any pressure or unrealistic expectations. This is likely due to Allen's recent breakup with his ex Brittany Williams. The insider revealed that Josh is the first person Steinfeld has been genuinely interested in for quite some time.
Steinfeld has been seen supporting her new partner from the stands in London this month. She also purchased Bills merchandise along with Allen's mother. The couple recently enjoyed a date night at the Buffalo Sabres game in the NHL.