Braelon Allen Shines in Preseason Opener, Cementing His Role as a Top Fantasy Stash
New York Jets running back Braelon Allen turned heads in the team's preseason opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, breaking free for a 31-yard touchdown that showcased the explosive ability that has made him one of the most coveted backup running backs in fantasy football. The play, captured in NFL highlight reels, came on a night when the Jets' starters, including lead back Breece Hall, saw limited action. Allen's performance reinforces what many analysts have been saying all summer: he is gaining significant stash value in fantasy drafts.
As training camp progresses, Allen continues to impress coaches and scouts with his blend of power, speed, and vision. The 21-year-old, drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft out of Wisconsin, is entering his third season with the Jets. While Hall remains the undisputed starter, Allen's role as the primary change-of-pace and short-yardage back has grown each year. His 31-yard touchdown run against the Buccaneers was a reminder that he can turn a simple handoff into a game-changing play, a trait that makes him a valuable insurance policy for both the Jets and fantasy managers.
What the Preseason Performance Means for Allen's Fantasy Stock
Fantasy football analysts have taken notice. Rotoballer recently noted that Allen is "gaining stash value," a term used to describe players who are not expected to start immediately but have the potential to deliver significant value if given the opportunity. For Allen, that opportunity could come in the form of an injury to Hall, who has a history of knee issues. Hall missed significant time in 2023 with a torn ACL, and while he has been healthy since, the Jets have managed his workload carefully.
Allen's touchdown run came against a Buccaneers defense that was mostly playing reserves, but the explosiveness and decisiveness he showed were nonetheless encouraging. He finished the game with 42 yards on six carries, averaging seven yards per attempt. More importantly, he looked comfortable in pass protection, a crucial skill for any running back hoping to earn more snaps.
The Jets have made it clear they want to keep Hall fresh for the regular season, and Allen is expected to see a healthy share of carries even in games that count. In 2025, Allen averaged 4.6 yards per carry and scored six total touchdowns, solid numbers for a backup. With the Jets' offense expected to be more dynamic under new coordinator, Allen could see even more opportunities in 2026.
Why Allen's Value Is Rising in Fantasy Football Circles
The fantasy football landscape is always looking for undervalued assets, and Allen fits that profile perfectly. According to early ADP data, Allen is being drafted in the late rounds of most leagues, often as a handcuff to Hall. But his performance in camp and the preseason has some analysts suggesting he could be more than just a handcuff. In fact, some are even floating the idea of a timeshare, given Hall's injury history and the Jets' desire to preserve him for a playoff run.
Michael Salfino, writing for The Athletic, highlighted Allen as a player who was part of his "Zero RB" strategy recommendations last year, though he noted that Allen missed time due to injury. This year, Salfino lists Allen again as a target for those employing the Zero RB approach, which involves loading up on wide receivers early and drafting high-upside running backs later. Allen's combination of youth, talent, and clear path to touches makes him an ideal candidate for such a strategy.
The Fantasy Context: Why Backup Running Backs Matter
In fantasy football, backup running backs with starter potential are gold. The position is notoriously injury-prone, and teams often rely on committees to keep their lead backs fresh. Allen's role in the Jets' backfield is particularly valuable because Hall, while elite, has missed games in the past. If Hall were to go down, Allen would immediately step into a workhorse role, with the talent to be a top-15 fantasy back.
The Jets' coaching staff has praised Allen's development, noting his improved patience and vision. Head coach Robert Saleh said in a recent press conference that Allen has "taken a big leap" and that the team is "excited about his role." Comments like these only add to the buzz surrounding the young back.
For fantasy managers, the question is not whether to draft Allen, but rather how early. Some are grabbing him as early as the 8th round, while others prefer to wait until the 10th or later. Either way, he is a player who could win you a league if things break right.
Perspectives: The Broader Trend of Handcuffing in Fantasy Football
Allen's rising stock is part of a larger trend in fantasy football: the increasing importance of backup running backs. With the NFL becoming a passing league, many teams are using multiple backs, and the days of a single workhorse back are fading. This shift has made it essential for fantasy managers to secure the handcuffs to their top picks, especially when the starter has an injury history.
Players like Allen represent a strategic edge. They are often available in the late rounds, meaning you can draft them without sacrificing a pick on a starter. If they hit, you have a potential league-winner; if they don't, you can easily drop them for a waiver-wire pickup. This low-risk, high-reward profile is exactly what savvy fantasy players look for.
Moreover, Allen's performance could have implications beyond fantasy. The Jets are a Super Bowl contender, and the depth at running back is a key reason why. Having a reliable backup like Allen means the offense doesn't miss a beat if Hall is sidelined. This depth could be the difference between a playoff run and an early exit.
As the preseason continues, all eyes will be on Allen to see if he can maintain his momentum. He is scheduled to play in the Jets' next preseason game, and another strong outing could see his ADP climb even higher. For now, he remains one of the most talked-about backup running backs in the NFL, and for good reason.
For more insights on running back strategies and other fantasy trends, check out our analysis of the Fever vs Wings: Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers Renew Rivalry in Playoff Push and the latest on Man Utd Transfer News: Carrick Demands More Signings Before Deadline.
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