Don deal,After many years of waiting, the Jacksonville Jaguars have welcomed another key player that they have been waiting for so long.
Florida’s Jacksonville Josh Allen, a talented pass rusher, was guaranteed to play for the Jacksonville Jaguars for at least another season on Tuesday when the team applied the franchise tag on him.
The seventh overall choice in the 2019 draft, Allen, is 10 sacks short of the team’s career record of 55, which is now held by Tony Brackens (1996–2003). In the last year of his rookie deal, Allen established a single-season franchise record with 17 1/2 sacks.
If Allen accepts Jacksonville’s non-exclusive franchise tender, it will ensure him $24 million in 2024. Allen and the Jaguars have until July 15 to finalize a long-term agreement. Allen would have to play under the tag or risk missing out on millions of dollars if they didn’t.
The anticipated action came after the organization released three defensive starters, Darious Williams (cornerback), Rayshawn Jenkins (safety), and Foley Fatukasi (defensive tackle), freeing about $20 million in salary cap space.
Over the course of five seasons and 74 games, Allen has had 45 sacks. In 2023, the Virginia native and former Kentucky standout achieved career highs in tackles (66), quarterback hits (33), and sacks. For the second straight season, he started every one of the 17 games and was selected for his second Pro Bowl.
It’s obvious that the Jaguars want to sign him to a long-term contract. However, because talks had not yet begun, general manager Trent Baalke stated in January that the parties were “very far” apart.
Josh wants to be here; I know that. We want him here; I know that,” Baalke added. Is there a figure we can agree upon that suits everyone? That’s the crucial element. That’s something I appreciate. These guys have to be respected for putting themselves in this situation. They put a lot of effort into their task. They should be well compensated.
“Goodness may have different meanings for them than for us. All we need to do is get together, have a conversation, and sort things out.
The Jaguars will probably run into the danger of losing receiver Calvin Ridley to free agency if they tag Allen.
After missing the majority of the previous two seasons due to a broken foot, a mental health issue, and a yearlong gambling suspension, Ridley made his first start in all 17 games last season. He ended with 76 receptions for 1,016 yards and eight touchdowns.
If the Jaguars sign Ridley before the start of the new league year, they will have to send Atlanta a second-round pick. It’s more likely that they will hold out, forfeit a third-round pick, and accept the possibility that Ridley won’t stay in Jacksonville.
After the season finale, Ridley declared, “I’m sure that next year will be better for me.” The essential thing for me this year was just to finish it. I escaped this season in good health. I’m confident in my abilities as a player. I seem youthful. I have quick reflexes. I’m telling you, whoever wants a good player will get one.
When free agency begins the following week, Ridley will be able to sign with any team.
Jacksonville will be looking for backup pass rushers K’Lavon Chaisson and Dawuane Smoot, as well as secondary support and a seasoned center, to go up against third-year player Luke Fortner.
One of Baalke’s top priorities is getting guards Ezra Cleveland and Ridley back. However, securing a long-term contract for Allen ought to be his top concern.
Instead of giving Allen a new deal before or during the previous season, Jacksonville decided to force him to play on a nearly $11 million fifth-year option. If he were to go on the open market, he would probably receive about $30 million a year.
