If there’s anything Jared Allen’s better at than sacking quarterbacks, it’s standing out in a crowd.
But the new Bears defensive end says he wants to blend in at first, and let established leaders like Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman step to the front.
“I try to lead by example,” Allen said, via Adam Jahns of the Chicago Sun-Times. “I know I have a reputation for being outspoken, but I’m really not. I’m really not a rah-rah guy. I’m not afraid to call a guy to the carpet because I expect accountability. I think as pros we all should expect accountability from each other.
“But I didn’t come here to take over leadership. I didn’t come here because I thought they needed a figurehead on the defense. I came here to be a part of something. Guys like Lance, who have been here, guys like Peanut, they’re leading by example, and that’s what I want to do.”
The 32-year-old Allen will mostly be counted on for some energy up front, replacing Julius Peppers.
The Bears were last in the league in sacks last season, and Allen’s still getting it done at a high level. If he plays like he has been in recent years, Allen will draw plenty of notice.