There aren't many general managers around the NFL in a better position than Adam Peters this offseason. But it looks like one veteran defensive player won't be part of the team's plans.
That, of course, is Jonathan Allen.
The Washington Commanders are coming off their best campaign in decades and boast an abundance of resources to strengthen the ranks. More importantly, this sleeping giant went from a laughingstock to an attractive destination much sooner than expected.
Peters was the right man to spearhead this ambitious project. His experience around winning franchises served him well. The Commanders achieved more than anyone thought possible in 2024. Building on this positive tidal wave is the biggest priority above all else.
Washington won't get a better chance to be aggressive. They are projected to have $82.21 million in available salary-cap space after a larger-than-expected hike announced by the league. Peters also boasts seven selections during the 2025 NFL Draft to find long-term solutions to ongoing complications.
The options are endless, including a daring trade for someone like Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett. Speculation is running wild around the media regarding potential incomings. Peters is a strategic roster builder, so fans shouldn't expect anything too reckless. At the same time, the Commanders' Super Bowl window is open and the organization must capitalize on Jayden Daniels' rookie contract in pursuit of perennial contention.
Fans were eagerly awaiting to hear from Peters during his media availability at the NFL Scouting Combine. He was never going to give too much away, but there were some notable tidbits for the team's supporters to ponder before attention turned to examining prospects of interest from the college ranks.
Adam Peters confirmed Jonathan Allen wanted to leave the Commanders
It was no surprise to see questions regarding Allen come up. Reports surfaced about the Commanders officially letting the veteran defensive tackle explore trade opportunities before Peters took to the podium. Although somewhat surprising, speculation suggested this was the route Washington could take looking at the savings involved.
Peters confirmed the reports, revealing that Allen wanted to seek a new challenge and the Commanders are letting him do that. The front-office leader didn't completely rule out the prospect of him being on the squad next season, but all signs point to a parting of the ways.
"With Jon, he's another person who's been a great Commander, a great person for this franchise. He's going into the last year of his deal. Him and his representation wanted to explore other opportunities. We let them do that. We're staying in contact with them every day. Texted with them this morning and really, everything's still on the table in terms of whether it's a trade, him staying here, or whatever. So we're still going through that. It's still kind of early in the stages. Haven't done a lot of exploring yet but that's where we're at right now."Adam Peters
Adam Peters on allowing Jonathan Allen to seek a trade. pic.twitter.com/IrdU5J527V
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) February 25, 2025
Finding a suitor for Allen is the first step. That won't be easy.
The player is on a high salary and this is an exceptional draft class for defensive linemen. Teams will be reluctant to part ways with draft assets to secure his services knowing he could be released if nobody comes forward.
Washington wants to do right by one of its longest-serving players. Peters will probably accept a mid-to-late-round draft pick to get this deal over the line. If a contending team can handle the financial commitment, this represents a win-now move to bolster their defensive front.
Peters will have a plan in place for every eventuality. The Commanders will have targets to replace Allen. With so much cap space and seven draft picks, all options are available to the franchise.
It'll be interesting to see what comes next.
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