JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (AP) — Josh Hines-Allen tipped the scales like never before in 2024. The seventh-year pro beefed up to 285 pounds at the behest of first-year (now former) Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, whose “mass kicks ass” motto was a mainstay during the offseason and in training camp.

It was catchy — and ultimately consequential. Hines-Allen and several defensive teammates swelled past the point of stout, and it showed on the field. The Jaguars ranked 31st in the NFL in total defense last season, allowing nearly 390 yards a game. They gave up 26 points a game, tied for second-most in the league, and finished with the fewest takeaways (nine). “Holding a little bit more weight kind of puts a little bit more wear and tear on the body,” Hines-Allen said. “It wa

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