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Defensive ends often garner attention for their ability to get after the quarterback, and the Jacksonville Jaguars' Josh Hines-Allen does that plenty. However, Hines-Allen also plays a key role in the Jaguars' run defense success.
"He's one of the guys where I would say fundamentally against the run as an edge player, in this league is as good as it gets," Anthony Campanile said.
Among all edge defenders, Hines-Allen has the seventh-most run defense tackles, according to PFF, and is tied for fourth in run stops -- or run plays that constitute a loss for the offense.
His ability to win his one-on-one matchups -- just like with rushing the passer -- allows Hines-Allen to make those plays. But even if Hines-Allen isn't the one making the tackle, he still often makes an impact by setting a strong edge, which prevents the ball carrier from getting outside.
"He's physical at the point of attack. It's hard to block him with a tight end," Campanile added. "He's powerful enough to power back a tackle and set an edge."
Just as they did a year ago, the Jaguars have the stingiest run defense in football. Being stout against the run is always a collective effort, but Hines-Allen is an important part of that equation.