Cameras caught a painful scene about the Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs’ awkward handshake after Bills-Texans thriller

The Houston Texans narrowly edged out the Buffalo Bills with a thrilling 23-20 victory in Week 5 of the 2024 NFL season, thanks to a last-second 59-yard field goal by Ka’imi Fairbairn. While the game itself was an edge-of-your-seat battle, the real story came after the final whistle—the awkward post-game interaction between former teammates Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs.

The moment, caught on camera, quickly went viral, fueling speculation about the true nature of their relationship following Diggs’ high-profile offseason trade from Buffalo to Houston. Was this simply a case of two fierce competitors parting ways, or is there bad blood lingering beneath the surface?

A Thrilling Game With A Bittersweet Ending for Buffalo

The Bills entered the matchup at 3-1, looking to continue their strong start to the season, while the Texans, led by rising star C.J. Stroud, were also riding momentum at 3-1. The stakes were high, but for many fans and analysts, the biggest storyline wasn’t just the game itself—it was Stefon Diggs facing his former team for the first time.

Houston’s offense came alive under Stroud’s leadership, with Diggs leading the charge at receiver. The All-Pro wideout finished with six receptions for 82 yards, proving to be a key factor in the Texans’ offensive success. Meanwhile, Josh Allen struggled, completing just 9 of 21 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown—one of his least productive outings of the season.

With the game tied 20-20 in the final seconds, Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn delivered the game-winning 59-yard field goal, sealing Houston’s fourth win of the season and sending Buffalo home with a gut-wrenching loss.

The Stefon Diggs Trade: What Led to the Split?

Before we dissect that post-game handshake, let’s rewind to the offseason bombshell that sent Stefon Diggs to Houston.

After four dominant seasons in Buffalo, where he became Josh Allen’s go-to weapon, Diggs was unexpectedly traded to the Texans in exchange for a 2025 second-round pick. The move shocked the NFL world, especially considering Diggs had been instrumental in the Bills’ four straight AFC East titles and deep playoff runs.

So, what happened?

Reports indicated that Diggs had grown frustrated with Buffalo’s coaching staff and his evolving role in the offense. His sideline outbursts during the 2023 playoffs were widely publicized, sparking rumors of discord between him and Josh Allen. While Allen repeatedly downplayed any rift, insiders suggested that Diggs’ relationship with the Bills had soured beyond repair.

The Post-Game Handshake That Said It All

After a game filled with intensity, cameras zeroed in on the midfield handshake between Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs—a moment that many were waiting for.

The interaction was brief, stiff, and visibly uncomfortable. The two former teammates shook hands, shared a quick embrace, and parted ways with no real words exchanged.

NFL reporter Thad Brown captured the moment on video, sharing it on social media with the caption:

“Josh Allen took a minute after the game to seek out Stefon Diggs. They shared a short embrace. And that was it.”

The clip immediately went viral, sparking widespread debate on whether this was a sign of lingering tension or just two professionals keeping it brief after an emotional game.

Body Language Breakdown: What Was Really Said?

While neither Allen nor Diggs has explicitly addressed the handshake’s awkwardness, body language experts and fans didn’t hold back in their analysis.

Here’s what stood out:

1. No Genuine Eye Contact: Unlike warm post-game reunions we often see, Allen and Diggs barely locked eyes, suggesting a lack of connection or unresolved tension.
2. A Quick Pat on the Back: The hug was more obligatory than heartfelt, lacking the emotional depth seen in friendships that remain intact post-trade.
3. Immediate Separation: Instead of lingering for conversation, the two parted quickly, reinforcing speculation that their relationship isn’t what it once was.

While some believe this was just business as usual, others argue it was a cold exchange reflective of a deeper fallout.

What Josh Allen & Stefon Diggs Have Said About Each Other

After the game, Josh Allen was asked about facing Diggs for the first time since the trade. His response?

“Miss? I don’t know if I’d say miss. But I know what he brought to the team, I know the energy he had, and obviously he was a hell of a player for us.”

While he was careful with his words, the lack of enthusiasm in Allen’s response raised eyebrows.

Diggs, on the other hand, has avoided direct comments about Allen since joining the Texans. In a recent interview, he emphasized that he was focused on his new team and building chemistry with C.J. Stroud.

Fans React: Is There Bad Blood?

The NFL Twitterverse erupted after the handshake video surfaced. Here’s a glimpse at the most common fan reactions:

• “That was COLD. Allen couldn’t even fake a smile.”
• “You can tell there’s still tension there. That wasn’t just a quick hello, that was an ‘I don’t mess with you’ handshake.”
• “It’s business. Allen and Diggs were great together, but they’ve moved on. Nothing more to see here.”
• “Damn, I really thought they had a brotherhood. That was sad to watch.”

The responses ranged from disappointed fans who hoped for a warmer moment to realists who see it as part of the business side of football.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Both Players?

Now that the Bills-Texans showdown is in the books, the focus shifts to the rest of the season.

For Josh Allen & the Bills

• Allen must bounce back after a lackluster performance.
• The Bills’ offense needs to adjust without Diggs as a primary target.
• Playoff positioning remains a top priority, and Allen must find a new rhythm with his receivers.

For Stefon Diggs & the Texans

• Diggs is thriving as Houston’s No. 1 option, helping C.J. Stroud develop into a star.
• The Texans are playoff contenders, and Diggs could be a key piece in their postseason push.
• His chemistry with Stroud is still growing, but their connection is already producing results.

Final Thoughts: A Handshake That Tells A Bigger Story

The Josh Allen-Stefon Diggs handshake may have lasted only a few seconds, but the message behind it was powerful. Whether it was a professional but cold exchange or a sign of lingering resentment, one thing is clear—their relationship is no longer what it once was.

As the season progresses, fans will continue watching to see if any more signs of underlying tension emerge. But for now, the chapter is closed—Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs are no longer a duo but rivals on different paths.

And that, perhaps, is the real story behind the handshake that had the NFL world talking.