4 moves that could save the Commanders over $50 million on 2023 cap
By Dean Jones
Commanders could restructure Jonathan Allen
- Cap savings – $8.94 million
Jonathan Allen is one of the NFL’s highest-paid defensive linemen for a reason. He is an absolute force anywhere he lines up, causing absolute havoc and gaining a reputation for making huge plays when his defense needs them most.
Allen deservedly got a massive payday from the Washington Commanders after an exceptional start to his pro career. His four-year, $72 million deal that included a $30 million signing bonus and $35.64 million guaranteed could be a steal based on how things are going with new contracts – especially considering how important the former first-round selection is to Jack Del Rio’s system.
Despite the Commanders struggling overall on offense, the same didn’t apply to Allen. He was once again a human-wrecking ball as a 3-4 defensive end, racking up 7.5 sacks, 65 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, 17 quarterback hits, 21 pressures, and a hugely impressive 80.1 grade from Pro Football Focus – stats that indicate he’s only getting better.
Washington could look to get Allen’s $21.44 million cap number in 2023 down if the player also agrees. Something that shouldn’t be too hard to work out when push comes to shove.
Restructuring Allen’s contract comes with an $8.94 million salary-cap saving. Money that could be used to potentially extend the one-time Alabama star’s teammate on the defensive front, Daron Payne.