Paris Olympics 2024: Philadelphia Eagles Star Who Beat Grant Holloway Teases Track and Field Return Close to US Team Trials

As the common medical data shows, for NFL players, it takes 9-12 months to make a comeback after the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) surgery. Such a result could have meant a death knell for the Paris Olympics participation goal of Devon Allen, the wide receiver from the Philadelphia Eagles in 2024. But the NFL star turned hurdler tried to go steady after his ACL surgery in January this year. Furthermore, the 29-year-old knew the demands of the sports he has been involved in. So, a riveting plan was in place. Courtesy of it, now the track star is showing positive signs of making it to the field. 

Recently, Devon Allen shared a clipping on IG from his practice session. His rhythmic movements in the clipping may give hope of a rapid comeback in track and field, alerting Grant Holloway to face his arch-rival soon, maybe in the Paris Olympics 2024 trial. The duo holds a stunning track and field rivalry between themselves. Whereas Grant Holloway has made himself one of the most revered names in the 110m hurdle, Devon Allen has established himself as a fitting opponent to the World Indoor champion. The 2022 USATF NYC Grand Prix remained a witness to that. 

There, Devon Allen recorded the third fastest time in the 110m hurdle, by finishing the race in 12.84 seconds. However, it took 13.06 seconds for Grant Holloway to complete the race that day. In defeating the legendary hurdler, Devon also teased Holloway’s record (12.81 seconds) in the event. Furthermore, it was a firm message from him considering he had to go through two ACL surgeries in the past. Nevertheless, he managed the duties in both track and field and NFL. So, in revealing his part, the Diamond League winner stated, “I always believe I can do it, that’s the reason why I am here in track and field, because I believe I can be the best in the history of the sport.” Once again, he is on the same route. 

As of now, the Oregon contest for the Paris Olympics 2024 trial will be his prime goal. If he succeeds in his target, it will be his third Olympic appearance in the trot. As Devon Allen had mentioned before, the Prefontaine Classic this month remained his ultimate target to announce his comeback. However, no official has come yet so far, shedding light on this matter. But, after having a thorough tryst with injuries, the athlete does not seem to be bothered by his late comeback. 

Devon Allen’s Paris Olympics 2024 comeback may be fueled by these reasons 

Talking about his experiences with fatal injuries, Devon Allen once added, “It’s not a death sentence anymore, and every time I’ve come back, I’ve come back faster and stronger.” This part may receive backing from his experience in the pre-Tokyo Olympics timeline. 

Back then as well, Devon Allen had to lie on the operation table for his labrum surgery and it was 8 months before the final bell in the Tokyo Olympics. From that situation, the Phoenix native returned to the field after gaining health and registered a fourth-place finish in the 110m hurdles, stopping at 0.05 seconds behind Grant Holloway. Once again, Devon Allen is eyeing for a similar comeback but with a medal this time. His previous year’s performance did not go in tune with his ability. 

Except for the Penn Relays final in Philadelphia, Devon Allen couldn’t claim the top podium in any 110m hurdle last year. However, he knows deep down somewhere that he has seen the worst compared to now and shined well. So a riveting comeback is not impossible for the wide receiver.