FIU’s Ajay Allen Aims to Prove He’s “The Best Running Back in the Country”

FIU’s Ajay Allen Aims to Prove He’s “The Best Running Back in the Country”

Ajay Allen, the standout offensive acquisition for FIU this offseason, is determined to prove himself as one of the top running backs in the country. After transferring from the University of Miami, Allen arrives at FIU with a strong sense of motivation.

A former four-star recruit (247Sports), Allen started his college career at Nebraska before transferring to Miami. During his two seasons with the Hurricanes, he amassed 544 rushing yards and seven touchdowns.

Speaking with G5 Football Daily as the Panthers kicked off spring practice, Allen described himself as a “versatile” running back. When asked why he chose FIU, Allen explained that he wanted a fresh start and a fair shot to prove himself. “I just wanted a fair opportunity and a restart,” he said. “I actually didn’t want to leave Florida, so I said I’d just come here.”

At FIU, Allen will join a crowded running back room, sharing the field with redshirt senior Kejon Owens and sophomore Devonte Lyons. Owens had initially entered the transfer portal but opted to return for another season, while Lyons impressed in the final four games of 2024, becoming the only FIU running back to rush for 100 yards in a game that season.

Allen isn’t entirely new to FIU, as he’s familiar with several figures in the program, including former University of Miami offensive analyst Benedick Hyppolite, assistant offensive line coach Edwin Pata, and offensive lineman Antonio Tripp, all of whom he worked with during his time in Coral Gables. However, he’s also getting to know his new teammates at FIU and adapting to the Panthers’ system.

“We’re learning in the system and the system is learning us, so we learn every day, and that’s getting us better,” Allen shared.

Having been part of a crowded running back room at Miami alongside talents like Damien Martinez and Mark Fletcher Jr., Allen didn’t have the chance to fully showcase his abilities. Now at FIU, he’s ready to prove himself and show that he’s one of the best in the nation.

“I just want to show people that I am one of the best running backs in the country, and what you’re going to experience this year is going to be the best thing you’ve probably seen,” he said confidently.

FIU’s spring practices continue throughout the month, with the program’s spring game scheduled for Saturday, April 5.