'I Like To Be 'The Hammer' - Braelon Allen

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Adam Schultz | Last updated Nov 22, 2024 6:33 AM ET

New York Jets rookie running back Braelon Allen has found himself on the periphery of the offense in Year 1, but when he's gotten his chances, he's made the most of it.

Playing second fiddle to Breece Hall, Allen has found his gameday touches rather limited of late after starting the year positively.

And like most rookies, who get an early taste of what it is like to be in the NFL, through 11 games, Allen isn't about to have veteran players make an example of him.

"I have been able to avoid being run over or blocked to the ground or anything like that," Allen said. "I like to be the hammer, not the nail. I am going to try and keep that going for as long as I can. I never want to be on the wrong side of that."

Known for his bruising running style, when Allen gets a head of steam up, he can be difficult to stop. As such, offensive coordinator Todd Downing has used him as a short-yardage back to great effect.

But that wasn't what Allen was originally brought to New York to be, but as any team player does, he's doing whatever is asked of him.

"I have been playing some different positions than I am used to," Allen said. "I have been playing a fullback role in short yardage situations and then also getting opportunities in a tailback role. It has been fun. I like putting my hand in the dirt and doing my part, doing whatever they ask of me."

With the Jets' season now looking dark and gloomy at 3-8, perhaps we could see Allen get more snaps in the offense, having had just 62 total carries for 229 yards and two touchdowns.

Known for being a raging bull, maybe now is the time to unleash him for the last stretch of the season because the Jets, in truth, don't have anything to lose.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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