New York Jets rookie running back Braelon Allen was among the team's surprise performers in 2024. The fourth-round selection quickly earned reps in a backfield that was supposed to be dominated by Breece Hall. Allen concluded his first season by rushing for 334 yards and two touchdowns, adding 148 receiving yards and an additional score to his offensive totals.
There's reason to believe Allen will continue elevating his performance as a sophomore in 2025. New offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand helped oversee a Detroit Lions offense that leaned on two running backs to be productive. Jets head coach Aaron Glenn also had a front-row seat to the David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs tandem.
Pro Football Focus recently compiled a list of five sophomore players who are second-year breakout candidates for fantasy football purposes. Allen made the cut.
Marvin Harrison Jr 📈
Five second-year fantasy breakout candidates:https://t.co/UtGDFhaHoY— PFF (@PFF) July 3, 2025
"Allen averaged a low 3.6 yards per carry, but he graded well thanks to his excellent play in short-yardage situations," Nathan Jahnke wrote. "Allen ran the ball 16 times when the Jets needed two yards or less for a first down, and he converted 14 of them. He averaged 3.3 yards per carry on those runs, while the league average was 3.2. His 90.0 rushing grade on those runs was the best among running backs.
"The goal is for Allen to be the next David Montgomery. The coaching staff needs to use him in that role, the offense needs to play well enough for Allen to score enough points, and Justin Fields can’t be used on the tush push. While that is a lot, there is similarly a lot for any other late-round running back, and this one doesn’t require an injury to a starter."
It's fair to assume the Jets will attempt to use Allen in the Montgomery role. Expect a run-heavy offense with Engstrand running the show, and a dual-threat Justin Fields under center. Allen could enjoy a breakout campaign in a hyper-specific role.
This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: PFF: Breakout season coming for Jets RB Braelon Allen
