Washington Redskins: 15 best free agent acquisitions of all-time

Terry Allen is the rare Redskins free agent acquisition who undoubtedly peaked in burgundy and gold. Where such a truth may have been subjective in other cases, there is no doubt here: Allen’s best play came in Washington.

Granted, Allen was already a quality starter before he came to Washington. He took over the full-time starting job at running back for the Minnesota Vikings in 1992, missed the 1993 season due to an ACL tear, then came back and ran for over 1,000 yards in the final year of his cheap, ninth-round rookie deal.

The Vikings opted to let Allen hit the market with the uncertainty surrounding his knees. The Redskins, in need of a premier back, didn’t hesitate to sign Allen. Allen, in return, didn’t hesitate to give them a return on their investment.

In his first year with the Redskins, Allen was good. He logged 1,309 yards and 10 touchdowns on 338 carries. In his second season, he was sensational, amassing 1,353 yards and 21 touchdowns on 347 carries. In that season, 1996, Allen made his only Pro Bowl, and he became one of just nine running backs ever to eclipse 20 rushing touchdowns.

After his Pro Bowl season, Allen faded. In 1999, he took up a starting role with the New England Patriots. Then, he fell into a reserve role with the New Orleans Saints. After one more season with the Baltimore Ravens at age 33, he hung up the cleats. They were plenty dirty, his quaint, yet respectable legacy in D.C. written in grass and mud.