Josh Hines-Allen demands more than success, targeting league-leading sacks and top-tier recognition. Jacksonville's star edge is ready to elevate the Jags' defensive front.
Following the first day of spring OTAs, Jacksonville Jaguars defensive end Josh Hines-Allen spoke to media members Monday about his expectations for the 2026 NFL season.
"I think we got to come in with the expectations of, you know, this is a business at the end of the day," Hines-Allen said. "And if you come in complacent, then things are not going to end well for you."
Both Hines-Allen and head coach Liam Coen have stressed the importance of building off of last year's success, while not allowing themselves to get comfortable throughout the offseason.
Last season, Jacksonville had the best run defense in the league, allowing 85.6 yards per game. But Hines-Allen has his sights set on a new mark.
After being asked what was next for the Jags' defensive line unit, the team captain responded, "Lead the league in sacks."
For Hines-Allen, 2025 marked his fifth straight season with seven or more sacks. The former top-10 pick also added 49 total tackles and three passes defensed, showcasing versatility in the trenches.
Despite his consistent production, the former Kentucky star also says that he feels he is a bit underrated, but says the only way to get that "validation" is to keep producing.
"I've been one of the best guys at my position for the last couple years and, you know, don't get talked about as much," Hines-Allen said. "But the validation of being named with Will Anderson, who just got $50 million, you know. Myles Garrett, and you know, you hear Maxx Crosby, T.J. Watt, and Nick Bosa. Like, you know, when you have a list of those guys who are the best in the league, you know, I want Josh Hines- Allen to be one of those guys that comes to the top of the list. And for me, that's just keep producing."
Entering his eighth season in Duval, Hines-Allen is one of the longest-tenured players on the defense. He talked about being a veteran presence for No. 1 pick Travon Walker and setting high expectations for his young counterpart.
"That's a guy that, you know, as soon as he came in, we locked in and we became brothers," Hines-Allen said. "And, you know, fierce competitors as well. He pushes me every single day and I try to do the same thing as well. We want the best for each other and we want to be the best duo in the National Football League."
Hines-Allen credited Walker for his professionalism, saying he is well-deserving of his recent four-year extension worth an estimated $110 million.
If Jacksonville is going to take the next step in 2026, it will start with the tone-setters up front. Hines-Allen has seen the highs and lows of Jaguars football, but his mind is in the right place.
With a motivated veteran chasing recognition and a rising star alongside him, the Jaguars' defensive front is looking to be amongst the best in the NFL.
ㅤ
Join our ROUNDTABLE community! It's free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!