The MRI results are in and SS Antonio Allen unfortunately did tear his Achilles tendon at practice on Thursday. A seventh-round pick for the Jets in 2012, Allen became popular with fans because of his ability to seemingly shut down Patriots star TE Rob Gronkowski.Using his 6'2" 200 pound frame, Allen was an ideal pick against the large, athletic tight ends the league was shifting to.
Coming out of South Carolina as a run defender Allen had never been asked to perform in coverage and surprised many with how quickly he took to it. This transformation came full circle in 2014 when the cornerback starved Jets put Allen in as a starting cornerback. He proved to be a liability at the position and it may have stunted the growth of a promising safety. We may never find out as Allen has been waived and his roster spot replaced with CB Keon Lyn. If Allen clears waivers he could potentially be brought back on the IR list but the injury is still devastating for a player with so much promise in 2013.
Antonio Allen cleared waivers Saturday and was placed on the Jets Injured Reserve List, giving Allen a silver lining that at least he will rehab with the organization and staff he’s familiar with. Allen is keeping a positive attitude, for what it’s worth, releasing this message on his social media accounts: “Tough times don't last, tough people do. I'll be back stronger than ever. All glory to God #Jetup.” Jets Nation is rooting for you Antonio.