What Jaguars HC wants to see from rising Pro Bowler in minicamp
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson let the majority of veterans who participated in OTAs head home until the team reports to training camp on July 25th. But one player that doesn't fit that description is EDGE Josh Allen, who reported to mandatory minicamp on Monday after missing the team's voluntary workouts. Asked if it […]
Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson let the majority of veterans who participated in OTAs head home until the team reports to training camp on July 25th.
But one player that doesn't fit that description is EDGE Josh Allen, who reported to mandatory minicamp on Monday after missing the team's voluntary workouts. Asked if it was a punishment of sorts for the former Pro Bowler, Pederson denied the idea.
"No, listen, it's a mandatory three days, it's the only mandatory part of part of camp," Pederson told reporters on Monday. "I haven't seen him, you know, and so this is an opportunity to see him and really, really just embrace him and welcome him back. There's no bad blood or anything like that."
Pederson revealed there was always communication with Allen and the Jaguars knew all along they'd see him until minicamp.
As far as what he wants to see from the veteran who has produced seven 14.5 sacks over the last couple of seasons, the Jaguars head coach had a clear, concise answer.
"I just want to see him run around, I want to see the type of shape he's in," said Pederson.
With four seasons of NFL experience under his belt now, Allen has something more to prove, however. It's no longer just about his level of play but rather about what he can be as a leader and mentor to younger guys entering the team.
Travon Walker was able to flash his potential as a rookie but the Jaguars will surely need him to make a big jump in Year 2. Also joining the EDGE room is Yasir Abdullah, who even as a fifth-rounder could take on a big role right away.
"I want to see (Allen), that the communication, he's gonna be with some young guys in his group and I want to see that leadership this week," added the head coach. "I want to see that enthusiasm and that excitement to be a part of, you know, be a part of this football team."
Featured image via Jacksonville Jaguars' YouTube channel
