Opportunity is there for Beau Allen to succeed in 2017
The big guy’s got huge shoes to fill in 2017.
Last year, Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Beau Allen played in reserve duty on both sides of the ball, paying pretty hefty dividends as, not only, a defensive tackle but as a fullback as well. Okay, it was only about four snaps at the fullback position, but you have to admit it was pretty cool to watch. While, there are questions all over the Eagles roster, we’re all pretty sure Allen will probably be used primarily at the defensive tackle position next season. Trust us on that one.
Allen, a former seventh-round selection, has spent the majority of his first three years behind Fletcher Cox and Bennie Logan on the team’s depth chart. Truthfully, there’s no shame in that. There aren’t too many men who are walking that are going to beat out either of those guys for the right to start. Much can change in a year however, and Logan’s traded the midnight green of the Eagles for the bright red of the Kansas City Chiefs.
Ready or not, Allen will get his shot in 2017.
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For his career, per NFL.com, Allen’s totaled 67 tackles. That includes one sack to go along with two pass deflections and one fumble recovery. His role’s increased in each of his first three seasons, starting two games in 2015 and three in 2016. Now, with a gaping hole at defensive tackle thanks to Logan’s departure, Allen’s got some pretty big shoes to fill.
Is he ready? One thing’s certain. He’s got some pretty capable teammates he can lean on. To this point, he’s been impressive when given an opportunity to play. Fans and coaches have noticed it, but so has the rest of the NFL.
Allen’s not going to sneak up on anybody, and while the Eagles aren’t going to hang their hat on him entirely (they recently visited with Michigan Wolverines defensive tackle Ryan Glasgow and may address the interior of the defensive line in the draft), he figures to walk into training camp as the second man on the depth chart at his position. It’s also a contract year. Expect to see his best.
Fortunately, with defensive ends Vinny Curry, Brandon Graham and Chris Long and fellow defensive tackle Fletcher Cox on his side, there’s less pressure. He doesn’t have to do it on his own.