Despite the glaring holes on offense, the Jaguars selected the most talented edge rusher of the NFL draft in Josh Allen. This gift that will pay dividends down the road for the defense. As the season draws closer, the Jaguars need to make the decision to have him on the field immediately. Allen has three unique gifts that make him standout among the defensive line.
What Josh Allen Brings to Jacksonville Jaguars
Maturity
Josh Allen had a memorable couple of weeks this past April. A week or so prior to the 2019 NFL, Allen married longtime girlfriend Kaitlyn Morrison. Together they share the responsibilities of caring for their one and a half-year-old son, Wesley. Both wife and son influenced Allen’s return to Kentucky for his senior year. A senior year that propelled Allen on the field, but also allowed him to earn his degree in Communications.
Historically, the typical headlines for a high draft pick so are negative for off the field shenanigans. Most likely with Allen’s new family in town, he will avoid these headlines which cause distractions. Allen has walked into an ideal situation in Jacksonville. A situation that includes a projected top defense and an opportunity to learn behind solid veterans. Jacksonville is a small NFL town that embraces hard work and family values. Perfect fit.
Background
Josh Allen is not a stranger to adversity. Growing up he faced the challenges of being under-privileged and one of six children. Dealing with bullies on a daily basis became the norm for Allen. Builds character, right? Additionally, he put forth the effort to overcome speech difficulties in his youth. His positive work ethic along with his desire to succeed built character. But he did not limit his hard work to the classroom.
On the football field, Allen received accolades as a talented wide receiver in high school. However, it was his move to defensive end his senior year that caught the eye of Kentucky’s coaching staff. He led the entire state of New Jersey in sacks but still remained only a two-star recruit. Not many offers for Allen. Perhaps a chip on his shoulder as he arrived in Lexington? Not necessarily, but a little something to prove nonetheless.
During his time as a Wildcat, his hard work in the weight room paid dividends. A noticeable difference with the addition of 30 pounds between his junior and senior year. The evolution of Allen into a top-ten selection did not happen overnight. Extra reps and sets build a body of work with discipline. His drive to be elite still motivates him today. Meanwhile, his humility from his upbringing keeps him focused.
Flexibility
No, this does not mean that the rookie has plans to be a yoga instructor in the offseason. Rather, Allen is a valuable piece that can move around on the defense. His athleticism provides the opportunity for him to play a handful of positions on the field. Allen’s physical traits (6’ 5”, 262 lbs) are visually staggering. However, it’s his explosiveness that makes him special on the field. Just ask opposing SEC quarterbacks.
As a senior at Kentucky, he was asked to do a wide variety of things on defense. In addition to providing pressure from either side of the line, Allen was also asked to drop back into man coverage with running backs and also lined up against slot receivers in zone coverage. Allen was able to embrace this diverse portfolio and perform at a high level.
FACT: Allen was named the nation’s top defensive player over Michigan’s Devin Bush, Clemson’s Christian Wilkins, and Alabama’s Quinnen Williams.
So What Now?
Should Defensive Coordinator Todd Wash and senior defensive assistant Dom Capers ease Allen into the rotation? Or find a spot for him immediately? The staff has a new weapon to add to the defensive scheme. Keep an eye out on Allen’s development the next month.
The direction the coaches decide to use Allen will impact the season and shape the future. Injuries are once again already up this offseason for the Jaguars. It is paramount that the Jaguars field the best player at each position. Wash claims that Allen is an edge rusher. But shouldn’t his versatility be an option? It’s an option that needs consideration. Regardless, Allen will find a place on the field sooner than later.
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