Veteran defensive end Josh Hines-Allen is optimistic about the Jacksonville Jaguars defense as they work through their 2025 training camp. He praised the depth along the defensive front, emphasizing the growing confidence this brings to the team’s overall pass rush strategy. His insights underline the importance of having multiple strong players contributing to the defensive edge.
Flexibility in the Defensive Front Bolstered by Strategic Position Changes
Hines-Allen praised the new positioning of Arik Armstead, who has been moved inside to the defensive tackle spot. This shift is expected to create more opportunities for an effective pass rush.
“I think having better edge depth matters. I think moving Arik [DT Arik Armstead] to the inside is also going to open us up a lot more. I’m excited to rush with the four we’ve got. If you put in Maason [DT Maason Smith] in there… When Maason gets healthy, you put Maason in there, Arik, Smoot, myself, Tray [DE Travon Walker], Ogbah, you know what I’m saying? The rotation can kind of be endless. We can kind of line up anywhere. But right now, it’s just how do you like to rush?”
he said.
Camaraderie and Chemistry with Dawuane Smoot Strengthen Defensive Effort
Hines-Allen emphasized the natural chemistry he shares with fellow defensive end Dawuane Smoot, which plays a key role in their efficiency on the field. This connection extends beyond game time and has been nurtured through regular offseason communication.
“Like, me and Smoot, we know, like, Go.’ You know what I’m saying? So, it’s very natural, and I called him. I was talking to Smoot every day—not every day. I’m not going to be exaggerating, but I talked to him a lot during the offseason, especially during the comeback. What are you waiting on? You’re going to have a role here. Come on,”
said Hines-Allen.
He also spoke about Smoot’s unselfish approach and how that benefits the defensive scheme.
“It was a lot of those calls that he could say that I did that to him. I didn’t call him every day. He just vibes with everybody. He fits what we’re trying to do, he fits the players around him, and he’s unselfish. If I need to pocket push, I’m going to pocket push the hell out of this guy. If you need me to buy this guy so you can make it inside the b-gap, I’m going to do exactly that. You know what I mean? So, having him kind of frees up everybody.”
Arik Armstead’s Role as a Versatile and Experienced Defender
Armstead’s experience and understanding of the defensive rush allow teammates to play more freely and trust his instincts. Hines-Allen described Armstead as a dependable presence both on and off the field.
“You’ve got Arik, as well. You can rush a little bit more freely because you know you have a guy that’s in tune to the rushes. You have a guy that, ‘Okay, if you take this side, I’m going to wrap under.’ So, it’s cool having a guy like that, man. I love him as a brother, and I respect him as a player as well. I can’t wait to really see tomorrow and, obviously, the preseason games and all that, we can compete against somebody else. I can’t wait.”
DaVon Hamilton Rated as the Premier Nose Tackle in the NFL
Hines-Allen offered high praise for defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton, calling him the best nose tackle currently playing in the NFL. Hamilton’s ability to stop the run elevates the entire defense’s confidence and performance.
“D-Ham is the best defensive nose tackle, whatever you want to identify him, in the NFL right now, and he’s showing it and proving it every single day. When you can have that, you know you have that confidence that they’re not going to run the ball right here, not everybody else has to pick their level up. You know what I mean? So, again, DaVon Hamilton is the best nose in the game, and he’s going to prove it. I can’t wait to be out there to support him after every play he makes.”
Depth and Readiness Bolster Jaguars’ Defensive Strategy for 2025 Season
The Jaguars value having a deep defensive line that can rotate effectively while maintaining a high level of play throughout the game. Equally important is having players who can step up without losing momentum if injuries occur. Hines-Allen’s confidence reflects the group‘s preparedness to handle different scenarios, enhancing their overall effectiveness this season. With the squad showing strong dynamics during camp, the outlook for the Jaguars’ defense is promising.