Why Malik Jackson Envisions a Big 2023 Campaign for Jaguars’ Josh Allen
The Jacksonville Jaguars pass rush in 2022 was a unit that struck fear into the hearts of their opponents. Edge rusher Josh Allen was a major reason why.
Allen continued his outstanding play in 2022, recording seven sacks, 22 quarterback hits, and eleven tackles for loss. His disruptive play was a major factor in the significant improvement of the Jaguars defense in a triumphant playoff run.
According to one retired Pro-Bowler however, Allen’s best may be yet to come. In an interview on the Up And Adams Show with Kay Adams, former Jaguar Malik Jackson expressed his belief that there is more in store for the talented edge rusher in 2023.
“I see a really dominant edge rusher,” Jackson said. “You know, I think this guy came in off his rookie deal and really just took off. I believe he was there with Yannick Ngakoue [Colts edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue] at the time and I think Yannick really helped get him off the ground and teach him some things. I think this guy is really someone who came into his own and should really be feared. You know, it’s a big year for him. I know with those second contracts, you know, those are really nerve racking years but if you do what you are supposed to do, get those sacks, create those pressures, and be a good leader, it’s only the ceiling for you.”
As one of the veteran voices and leadership figures on the Jacksonville defense, Allen will certainly be looked at to lead the charge yet again in 2023. The contract year should only provide further motivation for the 26-year-old.
The No. 7 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft, Allen came in fourth in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting in 2019, earning a nod as a Pro Bowl alternate as he set a Jaguars rookie record in sacks (10.5) while recording 11 tackles for loss and 23 quarterback hits, along with two forced fumbles. He became the first Jaguars rookie to ever appear in the Pro Bowl.
Allen appeared in eight games in 2020, recording 2.5 sacks, two tackles for loss and 11 quarterback hits. He then appeared in 16 games in 2021, recording 7.5 sacks, 12 tackles for loss, 14 quarterback hits, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and one interception.
Last year, Allen led the Jaguars with seven sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and 22 quarterback hits, along with four forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries, including a fumble recovery for a touchdown.
