Former Wisconsin running back Braelon Allen made his NFL regular-season debut with the New York Jets on Monday night.
Allen, who recorded 16 total touches for 93 combined rushing and receiving yards in three preseason games, made his presence felt late in the Jets’ 32-19 Week 1 loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
With backup quarterback Tyrod Taylor in for four-time NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers, Allen registered one catch for nine yards and one carry for eight yards in garbage time. Still, his unique combination of size and speed was on display when he touched the pigskin.
On Allen’s catch, which arrived on a long second down for New York, the Fond du Lac native zoomed past several 49er defenders before putting his head down and pushing for an extra yard at the end of the play. Wisconsin fans witnessed that type of effort throughout his collegiate tenure.
Allen also picked up a first down for Robert Saleh’s crew on a third down deep in 49ers territory. New York wide receiver Allen Lazard would ultimately score a touchdown to finish off the drive.
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At Wisconsin, Allen rushed for nearly 3,500 yards and recorded 35 touchdowns during his three-year collegiate tenure. In 11 games last season, he led the Badgers with 984 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns.
Selected with the 134th pick in the 2024 NFL draft, the running back is the youngest player in the NFL this season.
Despite entering the season as the Jet’s No. 2 running back behind high-usage playmaker Breece Hall, Allen’s frame and quickness make him a valuable asset for the Jets going forward. While Hall, who notched 21 touches for 93 total yards and a touchdown on Monday, remains the focal point of the offensive alongside Rodgers and wide receiver Garrett Wilson, Allen should see a few more opportunities for the remainder of the season.
The Jets play the Tennessee Titans on Sept. 15 in Nashville.