After failing to find a trade partner, the Washington Commanders will likely cut two-time Pro Bowler Jonathan Allen this offseason. According to NBCSports, the Commanders have been trying to move on ever since granting Allen a trade. Washington is planning to restructure their entire defensive line so it makes sense why they’re moving on given that they already did with Montez Sweat and Chase Young the past two offseasons. However, it’s apparent now the Commanders will not be bringing back Allen as well since the team is building a new regime under head coach Dan Quinn.
Originally selected in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft, the former Alabama product was one of the main disruptors for Washington’s interior line and became more reliable in the process. Despite that, Allen’s production has been slowing down in recent memory and he hasn’t done much in the past two seasons. Given that Daron Payne emerged at the time forcing Allen into a depth role, the defensive tackle had yet to shine bright enough to show the Commanders that he was a part of their long-term plans. Meanwhile, the Commanders will try to build on their NFC Championship Game loss without him to see how they could build more of a sustainable defensive line.
While the Commanders want to trade him to get some draft capital at least in return, no one is willing to pay out Allen’s last year on his current deal. A release is imminent and these four teams could give him another opportunity.
BREAKING: Commanders Could Cut Two-Time Pro Bowler Jonathan Allen, Not Trade Him
Four Suitors Emerge
Carolina Panthers
After building a capable offense for quarterback Bryce Young, it’s time for the Carolina Panthers to improve the defensive game. Last offseason, the Panthers didn’t do much to address the pass-rushing unit other than signing veteran Jadeveon Clowney but losing Brian Burns in the process. Carolina must build an all-around team that maximizes Young’s contract and the only way they do that is to provide some relief for Derrick Brown’s return. Brown is one of the best defensive linemen in this unit and could use a talent like Allen given his experience.
Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys were never going to make a deal with their long-time rival but perhaps, they could offer Allen a budget one-year deal. After extending Osa Odighizuwa, the Cowboys are back in good business and could use the addition of Allen to brush up the line if they lose Demarcus Lawrence in free agency. Since the team needs to extend Micah Parsons, they won’t Allen the best deal but one that works for the organization as Jerry Jones won’t be aggressive again in free agency this time around.
New Orleans Saints
The Saints didn’t have the funds to trade for Allen but they could find a way to sign him. Chase Young will probably leave which will likely leave a hole for the time being unless the Saints add a one-year veteran to salvage the position. Bryan Bresee is a solid option but he hasn’t proved he could make a long-term impact. Allen won’t save the entire pass rush but it gives the team another body to thrive in a situational role and share the snaps with Bresee.
Kansas City Chiefs
Depending on who the Kansas City Chiefs re-sign before free agency, the team will probably prioritize linebacker Nick Bolton. This means Charles Omenihu will probably be in a new uniform which could spell bad news for Chris Jones. The Chiefs don’t need another defensive tackle but if they could get Allen to rotate along the line and make a few plays, it might be the last resort given their cap space.
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