The Washington Commanders have some injury problems to contend with heading into their Week 17 game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night Football. However, they could get one of their most respected locker room figures back into the mix much sooner than expected.
Jonathan Allen worked exceptionally hard to return sooner than expected after some promising news regarding his pectoral tear. The veteran defensive tackle credited his teammates for providing the motivation needed to go the extra mile and assist with their postseason push. Had it been the other way and Washington was languishing among the bottom feeders once again, the Commanders might have taken their time.
Last weekend versus the Philadelphia Eagles came too soon, but another good week of practice brought a positive outlook. Allen was listed as questionable for the clash, but head coach Dan Quinn seemed confident about getting the former first-round pick involved in some capacity.
This was reflected in the transactions made by the Commanders over the weekend. Washington waived former second-round selection Phidarian Mathis — adding his name to the list of failed high-end picks made by previous head coach Ron Rivera. There was one goal in mind, which centered on activating Allen onto the 53-man roster.
Commanders should have Jonathan Allen available in Week 17
Allen looks set to finally feature for the Commanders. He's been missing since Week 6 at the Baltimore Ravens, so it remains to be seen how much the lineman is ready for after so long away from the gridiron.
Having Allen available in any capacity is better than nothing. He's still a respected performer around the league worthy of special attention. Perhaps more importantly, the Alabama product is a motivational figure in the locker room.
That will be needed more than ever in such a high-stakes situation. The Commanders are one win away from cementing their postseason spot after a sensational comeback triumph over the Eagles at Northwest Stadium. It's all hands on deck despite the likes of Dyami Brown, Andrew Wylie, and stud cornerback Marshon Lattimore missing the contest through injury.
Washington needs to dig deep and find the correct resolve for one last big effort. Allen is unlikely to play the lion's share of snaps as he's typically accustomed, but he could do damage if the Commanders pick and choose their spots effectively.
Allen is rejuvenated and motivated in equal measure. Providing there are no early setbacks when allocated snaps, there's nothing to suggest he cannot come with a couple of big plays in key moments.
Time will tell on that one...