The Minnesota Vikings have enhanced their defensive line by reaching a contract agreement with Jonathan Allen, a former Washington Commanders defensive tackle. Allen, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, was recently cut by the Commanders as a measure to save on salary cap expenses.
Due to Allen’s release prior to his contract expiration, the Vikings could make the announcement even before the official NFL signing period kicks off. The deal is reportedly a three-year contract worth $60 million. This information comes from a source with familiarity with the agreement, who spoke on the condition of anonymity since the financial details were not publicly disclosed.
Drafted by Washington in the first round back in 2017, Allen had been the team’s second-longest-tenured player before his release. Though Allen suffered a torn pectoral muscle last season, causing him to miss several games, he returned in time to contribute to the Commanders reaching the NFC championship.
The Vikings boasted a robust defense last season but are eager to strengthen their pass rush capabilities. Having started his NFL career eight years ago, Allen has compiled significant stats with 401 tackles and 42 sacks over 108 games. His sack total places him fifth in his previous franchise’s history since sacks became an official stat in 1982. In the 2024 regular season, Allen added three more sacks to his record across eight games.
Outside of his on-field prowess, Allen was nominated for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award in both 2020 and 2021, reflecting his leadership qualities. Notably, his entry to the NFL coincided with Vikings’ current head coach Kevin O’Connell’s time with Washington, where O’Connell served as quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator from 2017 to 2019.
