It was a memorable campaign for the Washington Commanders in 2024, securing 12 regular-season wins and reaching the NFC Championship game. That didn't stop veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen from wanting a new challenge.
General manager Adam Peters permitted the former first-round pick to seek a trade. Allen's representatives will now begin discussions with potential suitors to gauge interest around the league. After he's given everything to the Commanders on and off the field, it would be a surprise if the franchise didn't do right by the player.
This could be a win-win for all parties. It gives Allen a chance to establish himself elsewhere and embrace a different culture. For the Commanders, it might get them an extra draft pick and add more salary-cap space with savings of $16.47 million attached.
The compensation won't be spectacular. A mid-round pick will be enough to get the deal done. Teams will know Allen could be released if nobody comes forward with a legitimate offer, although Peters didn't rule out the prospect of keeping the two-time Pro Bowler heading into the final year of his deal.
It'll be interesting to see which teams throw their hat into the ring. With this in mind, here are five teams who should call the Commanders immediately about Allen.
Teams who should trade for Commanders DT Jonathan Allen immediately
Texans could trade for Jonathan Allen
The Houston Texans boast a standout defensive end tandem and their Super Bowl window is open in quarterback C.J. Stroud's final season before he becomes extension-eligble. But there are glaring holes across the depth chart for general manager Nick Caserio to solve before confidence in their aspirations increases.
Their defensive tackle spot needs upgrading with a proven performer who can help them win now. Jonathan Allen ticks those boxes, although his regression over the last two seasons will put off some teams when push comes to shove.
Allen showed during the Washington Commanders' divisional-round victory over the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions that he can still be influential. Putting this together consistently is the big challenge these days, but a fresh start could be exactly what the Alabama product needs to galvanize his career.
The Texans should be interested in Allen. There are a couple of problems — Houston only has five draft picks and a little less than $5 million in salary-cap space. It would take some maneuvering from Caserio, but slotting Allen next to Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter is a tempting proposition if the price is right.