Josh Allen Explains What’s Different About Preparing for NFL Season Since Becoming a Dad (Exclusive)

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has embraced a new chapter in his life since becoming a father. In April, he and actress Hailee Steinfeld welcomed their first child, a daughter named Harper. As he gears up for the upcoming NFL season, Allen shares how fatherhood has transformed his priorities, particularly regarding his sleep routine, which he candidly admits has become far more challenging.

“It’s amazing being a dad,” Allen stated in an interview with PEOPLE. As he discusses his partnership with Natrol, a wellness brand that focuses on sleep and energy supplements, he reflects on the adjustments he has made since Harper’s arrival. Despite the demands of parenthood, Allen remains committed to his health, particularly when it comes to getting sufficient rest—an essential aspect for any professional athlete.

His sleep schedule, once characterized by later nights, has shifted significantly. Allen used to consider 11:30 pm a reasonable bedtime, but now he aims to be settled in by 10 pm. “If I’m not in bed by 10, it means we’re probably doing something wrong,” he joked. The Buffalo quarterback recognises that parenthood brings unpredictability, particularly in sleep patterns. “You learn about the unpredictability of what sleep is and just the interrupted part of it,” he explained. However, he maintains a positive outlook, stating that he welcomes the new dynamics parenthood has introduced into his life.

As the Bills prepare for their preseason matches, including a home game against the Carolina Panthers at their new $2 billion Highmark Stadium, Allen expresses his excitement for the fresh opportunities the new venue brings. The regular season opener will see the Bills facing off against the Houston Texans on the road. “The fans are going to absolutely love [the new stadium],” Allen remarked, looking forward to creating joyful experiences in the new setting. He believes change can be beneficial, especially for a team that has seen its share of near-misses in the past, including attempts to win a Super Bowl.

With a new head coach at the helm and a newborn daughter, Allen’s perspective on what drives him has undergone a significant transformation. He articulated how his motivations have evolved, stating, “It’s not a personal ‘why’ anymore.” Instead, he is focused on setting a positive example for Harper. “I want to show my daughter how hard you need to work to accomplish something great,” he declared, indicating that although the approach remains constant, the underlying reasons have shifted.

Despite these changes, maintaining quality sleep remains a top priority for Allen as the season approaches. In collaboration with Natrol, he has integrated products like Natrol® Ultra Sleep and Natrol® Ultra Energy into his wellness routine. This holistic approach aims to enhance both the quality and quantity of his sleep, which is vital for performance on the field.

Moreover, Allen noted that he has historically struggled with sleep, particularly when flying, which can complicate travel for away games. He recalled a specific instance during a trip from Italy, where he took a Natrol supplement and found himself waking just an hour before landing. This positive experience solidified his intent to partner with the brand. “At that moment, I was like, ‘You know what? I need to get involved with this company,’” he shared.

As the Bills report for training camp on July 21, Allen’s commitment to both his family and sport sets the stage for an exciting season. Balancing parenthood and professional responsibilities may present its challenges, but the quarterback is steadfast in his dedication to being the best player and dad he can be. With a fresh mindset and a new home stadium, the 30-year-old looks forward to the upcoming season with optimism and enthusiasm.

It seems that as he steps onto the field this season, he will do so not just as a player, but also as a new father determined to make lasting memories for his family and fans alike.