Chicago Bears Defensive Coordinator Praises 'Violent Runner' Ashton Jeanty

When a highly-touted rookie running back gets off to a slow start, it can be easy for opposing defenses to overlook them. But Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen is making it clear that his unit will not be making that mistake. As the Bears prepare for their Week 4 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders, Allen is keenly aware of the threat posed by rookie running back Ashton Jeanty, despite his modest early-season statistics. The defensive play-caller is not looking at the numbers; he’s looking at the tape, and he sees a player who is a collision waiting to happen.

This article breaks down the Week 4 analysis from Dennis Allen on Ashton Jeanty, exploring the defensive coordinator’s high praise for the rookie’s running style, the context behind Jeanty’s slow start, and the Bears’ game plan to prevent a breakout performance.

Chicago Bears DC On Ashton Jeanty: The Tape Doesn’t Lie: A “Violent Runner”

Ashton Jeanty’s first three games in the NFL have not produced the eye-popping numbers many expected. He has faced a gauntlet of stout run defenses, including the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Commanders—all of whom rank among the league’s best in rushing yards allowed. The result has been an underwhelming statistical start for the promising young back.

However, when Dennis Allen spoke to the media on September 25, he made it evident that the Bears are not preparing for the stat sheet; they are preparing for the player. Allen’s breakdown of Jeanty’s abilities was filled with respect and a clear warning for his own defenders.

“He’s a violent runner,” Allen stated emphatically. “He gets into the second and third level of the defense, seeking out contact. He runs extremely hard. I think he’s an outstanding player. He has great vision, really good feet, and he runs tough.”

Allen’s analysis pinpoints exactly what makes Jeanty dangerous beyond the box score. His description of Jeanty as “violent” refers to a running style defined by physicality and a refusal to go down on first contact. This is the type of back who can turn a two-yard gain into a five-yard gain through sheer force of will, wearing down a defense over the course of a game.

The Defensive Game Plan: Bring the “Hard Hat”

Understanding the threat is one thing; stopping it is another. Dennis Allen’s comments also provided a clear window into the Bears’ defensive strategy for containing the Raiders’ rookie. The game plan revolves around one core principle: preventing Jeanty from building a head of steam and getting into open space.

“He runs violent. You have to get a lot of hacks around the ball on him,” Allen explained, emphasizing the need for gang tackling. “You really don’t want him to have free access into the second or third level of your defense because if he gets there, you have to bring your hard hat—it’s going to be a collision.”

This “bring your hard hat” mentality is a directive to his entire defense. It means every player, from the defensive line to the secondary, must be prepared for a physical confrontation. The strategy will likely involve:

• Defensive Line Penetration: The Bears will look to get a push up front to disrupt plays in the backfield before Jeanty can find a running lane.
• Swarming to the Ball: Allen’s call for “a lot of hacks around the ball” is a classic coaching term for getting multiple defenders to the ball carrier. One-on-one tackles against a powerful back like Jeanty can be difficult, so the Bears will aim to have two, three, or more defenders converging on him on every play.
• Securing the Second Level: The linebackers and safeties will be tasked with filling gaps aggressively, ensuring that Jeanty does not get “free access” into the secondary where he can become a much bigger problem.

The Bears’ defense has been susceptible to the run this season, surrendering 418 yards through three games. This matchup presents a perfect opportunity for Jeanty to have the breakout game the Raiders have been waiting for. Allen’s focus and detailed game plan show that he is determined not to let that happen against his unit.

Context for the Slow Start

While the Bears are rightfully focused on the threat Jeanty poses, it’s worth noting the context of his early-season struggles. Raiders offensive coordinator Chip Kelly pointed out that run defenses across the league have been ahead of offenses in the early part of the season.

“I think across the league through the first three games, defenses are ahead of offenses at a big rate,” Kelly said. He noted that other elite backs like Saquon Barkley (3.3 yards per carry) and Christian McCaffrey (3.0 yards per carry) have also had their efficiency limited. Jeanty, by comparison, is “right in the bunch with those guys.”

The Raiders’ offensive line is also still gelling, and the schedule has been unforgiving. The Week 4 game against the Bears represents the most favorable matchup on paper that Jeanty has faced in his young career. It’s a potential “get right” game for the Raiders’ ground attack, which is precisely why Dennis Allen is taking the threat so seriously.

Conclusion

Dennis Allen’s comments ahead of Week 4 are a masterclass in coaching preparation. He is looking past the statistics and focusing on the traits that make Ashton Jeanty a dangerous professional running back. His praise for Jeanty’s violent running style and his detailed strategy for containing him show a deep respect for his opponent and a refusal to let his defense be the one that allows the rookie to break out.

The matchup between the Bears’ run defense and Jeanty will be a physical, hard-fought battle in the trenches. While the Raiders see an opportunity for their ground game to finally find its rhythm, the analysis from Dennis Allen on Ashton Jeanty in Week 4 makes one thing clear: the Chicago Bears will be ready for the collision. They’re bringing their hard hats.