Jonathan Allen wants a fresh challenge. The Washington Commanders are willing to let the defensive tackle go after granting his trade request heading into the offseason.
Allen's been one of the team's pillars since being selected as a first-round pick in 2017. He was an exceptional performer at the peak of his powers. Unfortunately for the two-time Pro Bowler, injuries and regression over the last two years haven't done him any favors whatsoever.
Just what market Allen would have is anyone's guess. Teams will be reluctant to take on his salary knowing the Commanders could potentially release him to save $16.47 million. This is also an exceptionally deep draft class for defensive linemen, which represents a cheaper option with longer-term upside attached.
Time will tell on that. However, general manager Adam Peters needs to find a contingency plan if, or when, Allen takes his chances elsewhere.
The Commanders are loaded with salary-cap space, which would increase to around $97 million if Allen departs. They also boast seven draft selections to exploit a rich crop of linemen depending on their assessments.
Washington has to get this right given Allen's importance to the organization on and off the field. With this in mind, here are seven replacements the Commanders could target in 2025.
Potential Commanders' replacements for Jonathan Allen in 2025
Commanders could sign Osa Odighizuwa
Let's get the most talked about out of the way first.
Osa Odighizuwa and Dan Quinn know each other well. He developed under the coach during their time together on the Dallas Cowboys, so there is a bond between the two. With the imposing defensive lineman set to become a free agent, this could be a perfect long-term option for the Washington Commanders in pursuit of filling the void left by Jonathan Allen.
Odighizuwa is among the league's best at generating pressure from the interior. He needs to improve against the run slightly, but the former third-round pick out of UCLA is only just entering his prime. Having scheme familiarity with Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. is only going to help smooth the transition in this scenario.
There are big financial ramifications that cannot be ignored. Odighizuwa is expected to be a coveted free agent, which could see him get around $20 million per season or more on his next deal. The Commanders can afford it, but they have glaring needs elsewhere and already have a significant amount tied into Daron Payne's deal.
The Dallas Cowboys are trying to work out an extension with Odighizuwa. If not, the Commanders might be at the front of the queue.