5 Commanders players who are already turning heads at 2024 OTAs

Jonathan Allen - Commanders DT

After months of speculation surrounding his future, it was probably a relief for Jonathan Allen to focus on football once again. The defensive tackle cut a forlorn figure in 2023 and became increasingly frustrated by the lack of motivation to improve. Things couldn't be anything further from that right now.

Talk of trading Allen constantly came up in the media after the player hinted his future might lie away from the Washington Commanders. This was not a sentiment echoed by Adam Peters or Dan Quinn, who saw the former first-round pick out of Alabama as an integral part of their plans.

More importantly, Allen seems re-energized following the team's offseason overhaul. When speaking to the media this week, the lineman was visibly thrilled with the complete shift in atmosphere. Something that is bringing a new lease of life to the Commanders as they search for better days.

"I’m just so happy; I love the coaching staff, I love the direction we’re moving in, I love the way we’re working, man, it has truly been reinvigorating. Just so fun to come to work every day. This is literally just a dream job right now."

- Jonathan Allen via USA Today Sports

Allen's on-field production is a given. He's one of the best interior forces around despite taking a slight step back last season. However, seeing the persona shift and how excited the player is caught the eye in no uncertain terms.

Losing almost constantly couldn't have been easy for Allen or anyone else in recent seasons. He'll know that every player has a cut-off point before regressing and his could be coming soon. Therefore, it wasn't hard to see why the Pro Bowler might have been looking at alternative destinations in pursuit of an elusive Super Bowl ring.

Thankfully, that's no longer the case. If Allen continues to respond positively and displays the same energy throughout Washington's preparation period, a huge campaign awaits in 2024.