On Wednesday afternoon, the Jaguars made an official announcement about signing edge rusher Josh Allen to a five-year contract. The deal is worth $141.25 million in base value, with $76.5 million fully guaranteed at signing. This represents a significant increase from the $24.07 million Allen would have made under the franchise tag. General Manager Trent Baalke highlighted Allen’s value to the team in his statement about the signing, praising him as a true professional who has become one of the top defensive players in the NFL.
Allen is considered a cornerstone of the Jaguars’ defense and a leader within the team. Baalke also expressed his excitement for Allen and his family, as well as the team’s fanbase, at securing this deal. Looking ahead, the team’s next priority for an extension could be quarterback Trevor Lawrence. However, the Jaguars have the option to exercise a fifth-year option on Lawrence’s contract to maintain control over him at least through 2025, allowing more time for negotiations on a new contract.
The Jaguars have used franchise tags before reaching long-term agreements with their players in each of the past three seasons. This marks their third consecutive season with this approach, and it could signal that they are looking to lock up key players before they hit free agency or enter their prime years on their rookie contracts. With Lawrence still young and showing promise as one of Jacksonville’s top prospects, it’s clear that he will be a priority for extension talks in the near future.
