The Washington Commanders released Jonathan Allen after failing to find a trade partner. This was disappointing to some, but it always seemed like the realistic scenario once the player's trade request got rubber-stamped by general manager Adam Peters.
Allen was among the league's most prolific defensive tackles at the peak of his powers. His leadership in the locker room was another huge positive working in the team's favor. The two-time Pro Bowler became disillusioned almost to breaking point during previous head coach Ron Rivera's final campaign, and his regression performance-wise left Peters with no option other than to end this relationship ahead of time.
Reports suggest Allen will have a robust market in free agency. Teams knew the Commanders were probably going to release him and bided their time. Now this scenario has come to fruition, they are free to make their respective pitches.
It's something Peters has likely been planning for. He's always thinking two steps ahead and is running the front office with a business-first mindset. The front office leader now has extra financial resources at his disposal with the legal tampering window just a few short days away.
Commanders received significant financial boost with Jonathan Allen's release
The former first-round pick out of Alabama counts $6 million in dead money. Washington is saving $16.47 million on the salary-cap following Allen's departure. That's going to make a massive difference in the pursuit of retaining their prominent free agents and attracting the right talent from the organization.
According to Over the Cap, the Commanders now have $80.756 million in available financial resources with 46 players under contract. There are ways to get this number up should they wish. An extension for second-term All-Pro wide receiver Terry McLaurin is among them.
The Commanders are an attractive destination with grand ambitions to build on their sensational run to the NFC Championship game in 2024. They're making moves already with Bobby Wagner's extension, Chris Rodriguez Jr.'s exclusive rights tender, and a daring trade for wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. Many more will be on the way in the coming days during the most eventful time of year around the league.
This is an exciting time for Allen, too. It's the first time he's experienced being a free agent. Taking visits, exploring opportunities, and choosing the right fit is a new feeling for the lineman — one he'll embrace fully heading into a fresh challenge.
It leaves a big hole in the locker room. Allen was an ever-present — someone others looked to for inspiration. His performances weren't as consistent as in previous years, but the punishment of NFL trench warfare carries a heavy toll.
It'll be fascinating to see what the Commanders do from here. But fans can relax safe in the knowledge Peters is the right man to spearhead this organization's rise into perennial contention.
Allen gave his absolute everything to the Commanders in all its names and guises. Fans are wishing him nothing but the best after a prolific spell.