The NFL had another catch debate in the 2026 divisional round between the Buffalo Bills and Denver Broncos. In overtime, Josh Allen appeared to hit Brandin Cooks for a big gain, but Broncos cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian ended up with the ball. It was ruled an interception. After a very short review, the call stood, and social media exploded.
Many argued that Cooks had possession and was down before McMillian took the ball. Others said Cooks didn’t have full control on the ground, making the call correct. Fans went all out, using slow motion, still frames, and even AI to analyze the play. Former Bills coach Sean McDermott commented heavily, but team owner Terry Pegula stayed silent.
That didn’t stop Pegula’s daughter, tennis star Jessica Pegula, from weighing in from the 2026 Australian Open. After winning her match against Anastasia Zakharova, Pegula signed the broadcast camera in her celebration as usual, but added a message that read, “That was a catch,” with a sad face.
During her post-match press conference, she explained her frustration. She admitted, “Yeah, yesterday sucked, not going to lie. I was not happy. Not a happy camper. Tough game. Tough loss. How we lost was like a stab in the heart. It just wasn’t fun.” She also said she had been practicing at the time of the game and had an earbud in to follow the stream on her phone.
Who is Jessica Pegula?
Jessica Pegula is the daughter of Terry and Kim Pegula. She was born on February 24, 1994, and is 31 years old. She turned professional in 2009 and has a 487-271 career singles record. Her highest ranking was No. 3 in the world in October 2022. She reached the 2024 U.S. Open final but lost to Aryna Sabalenka. She is still searching for her first major singles title.
Fans have praised her for her dedication to the Bills and even suggested she could be a future team owner. While she clearly shares the team’s highs and lows, there is no evidence that she intends to take over from her parents.
Jessica Pegula’s reaction shows just how passionate the Pegula family is about the Bills, even from halfway around the world at a Grand Slam.
