A reason for draft optimism: Braelon Allen starts at running back in preseason week 1

In the fourth round and with the 134th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the New York Jets selected running back Braelon Allen from Wisconsin.

As implied by the draft round, Allen was a good prospect but hardly a “can’t miss” type. Indeed, it isn’t common for mid round picks to hit the ground and immediately contribute in the NFL. However, the first week of the preseason gives reason to think that Allen may be an outlier in that regard.

Specifically, the New York Jets opted to sit their starters in week 1 of the preseason.

Among those starters that sat to preserve their health was running back Breece Hall. In his stead, Braelon Allen started, which implies that he is Hall’s primary backup. Needless to say, Allen taking hold of a job that should receive meaningful reps in 2024 is noteworthy and a sign that the 2024 draft class may pay some immediate dividends for the New York Jets this season.