In 2014, a determined junior college quarterback named Josh Allen sent over 1,000 emails to FBS coaches nationwide, introducing himself and seeking an opportunity to play at the Division I level. His message was straightforward:
“Hello coach, my name is Josh Allen and I am a quarterback at Reedley JC out of California. I stand at 6’5″ 210 lbs and am a full qualifier, and feel like I would be a great fit in your offensive scheme! Please have a look at my hudl. Please get back to me at any convenience! Thank you.”
Despite his efforts, Allen received little interest, with only two programs—Eastern Michigan and Wyoming—extending scholarship offers. Eastern Michigan withdrew their offer after Allen chose to visit Wyoming, leaving the Cowboys as his sole option.
Fast forward to February 6, 2025, and that once-overlooked quarterback stood on the NFL Honors stage in New Orleans, accepting the league’s Most Valuable Player award. Josh Allen, now the star quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, led his team to a 13-4 record during the season, amassing 3,731 passing yards and 28 touchdowns. In his acceptance speech, he shared a heartfelt moment with his fiancée, actress Hailee Steinfeld, calling her his “rock” and expressing gratitude to his family and the Bills organization.
Allen’s journey from a high school player with no scholarship offers to NFL stardom is a testament to perseverance and self-belief. Reflecting on his path, Allen once said, “I was a no star, no offer guy at a high school. I sent emails every day to almost every coach in the nation. Please, please just offer me. All I was asking was for an opportunity. And I really never heard back from anybody.”
His story underscores the idea that it only takes one “yes” to change a life. Allen’s rise from obscurity to becoming the NFL’s MVP serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that determination and resilience can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
