JACKSONVILLE, FL. () — Joshua Hines-Allen was a strong presence at the second week of organized team activities (OTA) for the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Hines-Allen’s attendance at OTAs came as a surprise, the veteran usually opts out of the mandatory training sessions to train in Arizona.

Last season, the Jaguars signed Hines-Allen to a monster 5-year contract worth over $140 million.

In 2023, the linebacker had a breakout season. Hines-Allen had 17.5 sacks, which was tied for second most in the National Football League.

2024 saw some regression however, finishing the year with 8 total sacks. Nonetheless, he said he believes Jacksonville’s defense can be a major asset this season.

“It’s all about the work we put in every day,” he said. “The communication that we have in the red zone, backed up situations, it all starts out here.”

The Jaguars are set to take on the Carolina Panthers in week one of the NFL season on Sunday, Sep. 7 at 1:00 p.m.