“They have zero value in this league”: 4x All-Pro Jared Allen highlights key error with rookie QBs
Jared Allen was the defensive lynchpin for several NFL franchises for more than a decade. Now that rookie QBs are gaining more support to start early in their careers, the former DE gave his take on the trend.
On Thursday, Allen appeared on ESPN’s ‘The Pat McAfee Show’ and talked about rookie QBs such as Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels taking up starting positions.
Allen was enquired about the method he employed during his playing days to counter the fresh on-the-block QBs. The 2x NFL sack leader did not shy away from detailing his tactics.
“Absolutely, non-stop talking from media day," said Allen. “You're basically letting them know that they're a rookie, they have zero value in this league, and you're going to peel their head off the turf every chance you get and then you got to put bodies on them.”
Apart from the mental fatigue Allen was ready to cause to rookie QBs, the DE also had a firm game plan on the gridiron.
“Rookies always hold the ball too long," added Allen. “It's the college system where they sit back there, and they pat the ball for an hour. That's how you got to heat them up.
“And then, once you get them rattled, it's a constant no matter what. Run play, have someone walking by the quarterback in his ear. Have someone hitting them. You always put a body near them.”
A debate across the league has been raging on over early exposure of rookies in the NFL.
Rookie QB who impressed Jared Allen
Jared Allen highlighted his disdain for rookie QBs who try to be too much in the NFL. However, last year, the five-time Pro Bowler couldn’t help himself from being impressed by CJ Stroud. On ‘The Pat McAfee Show,’ Allen admired Stroud.
“I don't think people talked about it enough. I don't think he (Stroud) got enough credit for what he did," Allen said.
Jared Allen added that many defenses tried to rattle Stroud with the ways he pointed out, but the youngster kept his poise and composure.