written by: CHUCK GEORGE/outlook news
all photos by: JUAN MOORE/outlook news
In a move that solidifies their defensive core for the foreseeable future, the Jacksonville Jaguars have inked star pass rusher Josh Allen to a staggering five-year, $150 million contract. This deal, which includes an impressive $88 million guaranteed, catapults Allen to the upper echelons of NFL defensive salaries, making him the third-highest paid defensive player on a per-year basis.
At a press conference following the announcement, Allen expressed his gratitude and determination, stating, “I’m very emotional right now. The job is not done yet. That’s what I want to tell the fan base. I’m extremely blessed and honored to get this paycheck, these checks, but I have to, I still set goals for myself.”
The 26-year-old pass rusher had a standout season last season, setting a franchise record with 17.5 sacks and earning his second Pro Bowl nomination. With 45 career sacks, 251 tackles, eight pass deflections, and one defensive touchdown, Allen has proven himself as a cornerstone of the Jaguars’ defense since being selected with the No. 7 overall pick in 2019.
“I’m a legacy guy,” Allen declared. “Defensive Player of the Year is my next goal. Winning a Super Bowl, being the MVP of it. I got to win a Super Bowl and be the MVP. I’m not going to stop until I get that.”
This blockbuster deal is part of the Jaguars’ offseason strategy to solidify their roster, including finalizing deals with linebacker Foye Oluokun and guard Ezra Cleveland, and signing free agents such as defensive lineman Arik Armstead, wide receiver Gabe Davis, safety Darnell Savage, and wide receiver Devin Duvernay. With Allen locked in for the long haul, Jacksonville aims to build a championship-caliber team around their defensive stalwart.
