Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Josh Allen has signed a massive five-year contract extension worth $150 million, with $88 million guaranteed, making him the highest paid linebacker in the NFL. The extension runs through the 2028 season after the Jaguars exercised his fifth-year option to keep him through 2023 and placed the franchise tag on him earlier in the offseason to prevent him from entering free agency. Allen, who was the Jaguars’ No. 7 overall pick in 2019, is now the third-highest paid defender in the league behind Nick Bosa and Chris Jones.
The 6-foot-5, 255-pound Allen is coming off a career-year in which he recorded 17.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, one interception, and 66 tackles. His standout performance during a contract year helped him secure the lucrative extension. Allen has made two Pro Bowls during his career and has emerged as a key player for the Jaguars. One of his best games came against Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen in 2021, where he had one sack, one interception, and one fumble recovery in a Jaguars win. Allen’s extension resets the market for outside linebackers with an average salary of $30 million per year.
The timing of Allen’s career-year was crucial for him, as he put together his best season leading up to the extension negotiations. He will now look to help the Jaguars bounce back from a disappointing 9-8 season where they missed the playoffs. The Jaguars have made moves in the offseason to bolster their roster, adding defensive lineman Arik Armstead and wide receiver Gabe Davis in free agency. With the No. 17 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, the Jaguars will look to continue building a competitive squad around Allen.
Allen’s extension solidifies his future with the Jaguars, ensuring that he remains a cornerstone of their defense for years to come. As one of the top defenders in the league, Allen’s ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt plays will be critical for the Jaguars’ success. The extension reflects the team’s commitment to retaining top talent and building a competitive team. Allen’s performance on the field has earned him recognition as one of the premier linebackers in the NFL, and his new contract cements his status as a key player for the Jaguars.
The NFL landscape for contracts and player salaries continues to evolve, with top defenders like Allen commanding significant paydays. The rising salaries of players like Bosa, Jones, and Allen reflect the value placed on elite defensive talent in today’s game. As teams prioritize building strong defenses to compete for championships, players like Allen who can make game-changing plays become highly sought after. The Jaguars’ investment in Allen highlights their belief in his abilities to make an impact on the field and help lead the team to success in the coming seasons.
Overall, Allen’s contract extension with the Jaguars represents a significant milestone in his career and a major investment for the team. As he looks to build on his past success and continue to excel on the field, Allen will strive to justify the faith the Jaguars have placed in him with this lucrative deal. With a renewed sense of security and a strong supporting cast around him, Allen will aim to help the Jaguars reach new heights and compete for postseason success in the seasons ahead.
