JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — With a 17 1/2-sack season, a second Pro Bowl appearance, and a new contract that made him football’s highest-paid outside linebacker, Josh Allen had undoubtedly become a prominent figure in the NFL. However, he was often known as “the other Josh Allen,” overshadowed by the more famous quarterback of the Buffalo Bills.
Watching Pro Bowl highlights, Josh and his wife, Kaitlyn, heard a commentator refer to “Aidan Hutchinson and Josh … Allen?”
“It was almost like she was confused about who I was,” he recalls.
Kaitlyn discovered that it was challenging to find her husband’s jerseys for sale. This situation triggered a desire within Josh to change his name, a thought he had been entertaining for some time. His wife, Kaitlyn, encouraged him to take the step.
Coming from a family where his sisters had a different last name, incorporating their mother’s maiden name, Josh and his twin brother grew up as Allens. However, Josh decided to reclaim his roots by becoming Josh Hines-Allen.
In the off-season, Josh underwent a legal process to change his name, adjusting various official documents such as his driver’s license, Social Security information, and tax returns.
After officially making the change, Josh Hines-Allen embraced his new identity.
A former pro basketball player, uncle Greg “Dunkin’” Hines (left) is a towering figure in Josh Hines-Allen’s life. (Courtesy of Greg Hines)
The name change symbolized Josh’s aspiration for personal growth and his grounding in his family history.
Morris Hines, a revered figure in the family, played a significant role in shaping Josh’s competitive spirit and mental toughness.
Josh fondly remembers the life lessons he learned from his uncle Dunkin’ Hines, a former basketball player, who imparted wisdom and values that shaped Josh’s character.
As Josh’s journey in sports progressed, his extended family, including his talented sisters, influenced his appreciation for athletics and competition.
Myisha, one of his sisters, achieved great success in basketball, inspiring Josh to seek his own path in football.
Forming strong bonds with family members and drawing motivation from their successes, Josh continued to pursue excellence in his athletic career.
Myisha Hines-Allen (left) won a WNBA championship in 2019 as a member of the Washington Mystics. (Ethan Miller / Getty Images)
As Josh prepares for upcoming challenges in the NFL, he looks to cement his legacy by excelling on the field and striving for greatness.
Embracing his new identity as Josh Hines-Allen, he aims to surpass previous achievements and make a lasting impact in the league.
With a relentless drive to succeed, Josh remains focused on his goals, determined to elevate his game and leave a mark in NFL history.
He is committed to pushing his limits, overcoming obstacles, and achieving unparalleled success in his football career.
(Illustration: Dan Goldfarb / The Athletic; photo: Cooper Neill / Getty Images)