COSTA MESA, CA — Chargers wide receiver Keenan Allen has truly been a value assets to the franchise over the years. After signing he $80 million extension last week, the work hasn’t stopped nor has his focus of helping his team be the absolute best they can be. With a new quarterback in Tyrod Taylor under center this season, Allen will do his part in order to keep the machine running smoothly.
“They were the guys that drafted me, that gave me a chance, gave me my first opportunity. Being able to stay here with the organization I started with, all the relationships I have in the building, it’s major,” Allen explained on Thursday to the media.
He’s battled through injuries such as a lacerated kidney and a torn ACL — limited his production during the 2015 and 2016 seasons. During that time he played in just nine games. Allen has truly been a warrior with a no quit mentality and it’s paid off for him on the field.
He adjusted his diet and mentality after those two significant injuries, and the discipline off the field has definitely increased his production to this team.
“Keenan’s happy, we’re happy,” Chargers head coach Anthony Lynn said. “He’s a heck of a football player. Just glad it worked out.”
After giving out extensions to defensive end Joey Bosa it was only a matter of time before the Bolts and general manager Tom Telesco rewarded the three time Pro Bowler with a extension. Although Allen and his agent had pushed throughout the off season for an extension, it stop Allen’s desire to continue to train and workout for the upcoming season. Allen remained optimistic and focused on what he could control on the field.
“We were really pushing for it throughout camp,” Allen said.
Allen certainly has the respect of his teammates who look forward to practicing and playing along side of him this season
“I don’t think there’s anyone in the league that can pick and guard him one on one,” Taylor said.
*Last season, Allen he tied for the AFC lead in catches with 104 and was third in yards 1,199.
The Chargers face rookie quarterback Joe Burrow and the Bengals in Cincinnati on Sunday September 13.
