3 realistic expectations for Jaguars OLB Josh Allen in 2022

1. Jaguars OLB Josh Allen must return to the Pro Bowl in 2022

The Jaguars haven’t had a player represent them in the Pro Bowl since 2019. Coincidentally, Josh Allen, along with defensive end Calais Campbell, wide receiver DJ Chark Jr. and cornerback Jalen Ramsey all earned the designation that year.

While there have been some Jaguars who have played at a high level over the last two years, it’s hard to justify any of them making the Pro Bowl. Take Allen for example; his performance against the Bills was one of the best among NFL defenders, regardless of the position, last season. However, he wasn’t nearly as consistent as Maxx Crosby (Las Vegas Raiders), T.J. Watt (Pittsburgh Steelers), or Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns).

Crosby had eight sacks (one more than Allen) but his 108 total pressures led the league. Moreover, his 91.9 Pro Football Focus overall grade was the second-best among edge rushers. Meanwhile, Watt logged 22.5 sacks and 68 total pressures. His PFF grade of 90.6 ranked third in the league. Then there’s Garrett.

Guess who was the pass rusher with the highest PFF grade in 2021? That’s right, Garrett, who finished the year with 78 total pressures and 18 sacks. So why bring up Crosby, Garrett and Watt? Because the three of them, along with Joey Bosa (Los Angeles Chargers), made the Pro Bowl last year. Allen doesn’t have to have better numbers than any of them in 2022 but he will need to get close if he wants to make the Pro Bowl.

Is the bar set too high for Allen this upcoming season? Maybe, but that’s what you expect from great players and that’s precisely what he can become.