Jets RB battle may already be over before preseason even begins

New York Jets head coach Aaron Glenn has stated the team will use a running-back-by-committee approach for the 2025 season. While Breece Hall is established as the primary running back (RB1), the roles and playing time behind and alongside him are open for competition, primarily involving 2024 draft picks Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis.

Early reports from training camp indicate that Braelon Allen has emerged as the strong favorite to secure the RB2 position behind Hall. The Athletic's Zack Rosenblatt suggested the Jets could lean towards a more even "1A-1B" split in the backfield than anticipated, stating the team will "have a hard time keeping Allen off the field in 2025." Rosenblatt described Allen as looking "bigger, faster, and stronger," and noted he has been one of the stars of camp, forcing offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand to find ways to utilize both Hall and Allen.

Allen, a fourth-round pick in 2024, was initially expected to provide a powerful complement to Hall's big-play ability. He showed promise early in his rookie camp and season, but his production declined as the season progressed, finishing with 92 carries for 334 yards and two touchdowns (3.6 yards per carry). Isaiah Davis eventually surpassed him on the depth chart, taking over the RB2 role.

However, Allen has returned this summer performing exceptionally well in camp, picking up where he left off last preseason. He has been described as consistent, reliable, and explosive. Conversely, Davis has reportedly struggled to make the same positive impression during camp. With the Jets also planning to involve Hall more in the passing game, Allen is positioned for an increased workload. While three preseason games remain for evaluation, Allen is currently performing well. If he maintains this trajectory, he could solidify not just the RB2 job but potentially earn a legitimate timeshare role with Hall once the regular season begins.