The Los Angeles Chargers have quickly established their wide receiving corps as a formidable asset in the early part of the NFL season, primarily led by veteran receiver Keenan Allen. Allen’s calling card has been his eye-popping advanced metrics. It’s his dynamic connection with QB Justin Herbert that makes him an impact player on and off the field.
Through the initial duo of contests this year, Allen has established himself as Herbert’s most reliable weapon. He’s been at his best, highlighting his abilities with a team-high 12 catches for 129 yards and two touchdowns. His performance has not only helped the Chargers secure key first downs but has solidified his reputation as a clutch performer, particularly in crucial third- and fourth-down situations.
This is further exemplified by Keenan Allen leading the team with nine first-down receptions, showcasing his game-changing capability to keep drives alive. He’s been thrown to on seven targets, tying him for sixth among NFL running backs. That demonstrates not only his importance in the offensive scheme but Herbert’s confidence in his potential playmaking abilities. On these possession downs, Allen has put up elite-level productivity, racking up 61 yards — good for 14th-most in the NFL — and scoring a touchdown.
Allen’s three touchdown grabs during the first two games of the NFL season have been downright ridiculous. They catapult him into the elite ranks of Chargers history. He is only the second player to achieve this feat, joining legendary tight end Antonio Gates, who accomplished it in 2014. This early boom in success emphasizes Allen’s importance to the team’s offensive strategy.
In mid-August, Allen re-signed with the Chargers on a one-year $3 million contract. This decision came on the heels of a breakthrough season in Chicago, when he made $23 million. Looking back on his time as a free agent, Allen admitted to feeling snubbed.
“I thought I got a little bit downplayed,” – Keenan Allen
Now at 33 years old, Allen is back with the Chargers again and still proving people wrong. He continues to show that he is still supremely valuable to the rebuilding team. His age really did make one wonder just how impactful he could be. Coupled with his past issues with drops earlier in his career, fears only became more amplified. Still, he’s certainly done the work to prove himself and shown a level of consistency in his game this season.
Herbert has lovingly referred to him as “third-and-Keenan,” a moniker that underscores Allen’s ability to deliver when his team needs it most. Lateral movement and stacks aside, perhaps his most impressive trait is his ability to make these critical receptions under pressure.
I haven’t really had a step to lose,” Allen said, at the time recalling the fire and the competitive drive that’s fueled him all year.
Chargers head coach Ladd McConkey provided a window into the team’s culture. He made sure to stress the upbeat feeling in the wide receiver room. He acknowledged that those past seasons were difficult for the whole team.
I think last year we experienced a lot of growing pains as an organization from the top on down,” – Ladd McConkey.
McConkey commented on the current state of the team, stating that “[the vibe of the WR group has] been really good,” indicating a sense of camaraderie that enhances their performance on the field.
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