Three Arizona Cardinals poised for a breakout season in 2021
By Sion Fawkes
Zach Allen
The injury bug still haunts Allen, who has started just 8 games in two seasons and has made 17 overall appearances. Despite the rash of injuries, Allen came on strong during the final four weeks, logging 21 combined tackles, 12 solo tackles, a sack, and 2 tackles for loss. He also saw his snap count increase substantially, ranging between 73 and 89 percent.
Allen comprises a dynamic young front that will also include Leki Fotu and Rashard Lawrence. And while Jordan Phillips underperformed, he’s still in the mix to be part of a solid group up front. But if Allen can remain healthy, he should lead the unit over the next few seasons, racking up big numbers if the final four weeks serve as any indication.
Better yet, if Allen makes The Leap in 2021, he will become yet another top talent on a unit that already includes Budda Baker in the defensive backfield, a poised star in Isaiah Simmons at linebacker, and if they can keep him around, Haason Reddick.
Sure, early returns regarding Allen’s inability to stay healthy are alarming. But in 2020, he showed if he can avoid the injury bug, he can deliver top production.