Former Alabama Star Jonathan Allen Released by Washington Commanders, Begins Search for New Team
After eight seasons with the Washington Commanders, former Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen is officially on the hunt for a new team. The Commanders announced Allen’s release on Friday, ending his tenure with the franchise that drafted him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Allen, a dominant force on Washington’s defensive line for nearly a decade, appeared in 109 career games. However, injuries limited him to just eight appearances during the 2024 season, leading the team to make the difficult decision to part ways with the veteran.
Despite his release, Allen remains one of the most productive defenders in franchise history. He ranks 10th all-time in sacks for Washington, a testament to his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks and anchor the defensive front. His leadership and consistent performance made him a fan favorite and a respected voice in the locker room.
As he enters the 2025 offseason, Allen will be one of the top defensive free agents on the market. Given his pedigree and track record, multiple teams are expected to express interest in signing the former Alabama star. Even at 30 years old, Allen’s skill set and experience make him a valuable asset for any team in need of a proven pass rusher.
Before his successful NFL career, Allen was a game-changer for Nick Saban’s Alabama Crimson Tide. He played a crucial role in one of the most dominant defensive stretches in college football history, helping Alabama maintain its reputation as the gold standard of the sport.
During his time in Tuscaloosa, Allen cemented himself as one of the top defensive linemen in program history. He finished his college career with 28.5 sacks and 46 tackles for loss, numbers that put him among the best to ever wear the Crimson and White.
His breakout season came in 2015 when he led Alabama with 12 sacks and 15 tackles for loss. That year, the Crimson Tide went 14-1, capping off the season with a victory in the College Football Playoff National Championship against Clemson.
Allen returned for his senior season in 2016 and took his game to an even higher level. He became a Consensus All-American, won SEC Defensive Player of the Year, and took home multiple prestigious national awards, including the Bronco Nagurski Trophy and the Chuck Bednarik Award, both given to the nation’s top defensive player.
Beyond the statistics, Allen was a leader on and off the field. His relentless motor, football IQ, and ability to inspire teammates made him an invaluable part of Alabama’s defense. He was the embodiment of the “Built by Bama” mentality, which helped solidify his status as a first-round draft pick.
Washington selected Allen with the 17th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and he quickly proved to be worth the investment. Over the years, he became the heart and soul of the Commanders’ defense, consistently delivering Pro Bowl-caliber performances.
One of his most impressive seasons came in 2021 when he recorded nine sacks, 30 quarterback hits, and 10 tackles for loss. That year, he earned his first Pro Bowl selection and established himself as one of the premier interior pass rushers in the league.
Despite Washington’s struggles as a team in recent years, Allen remained a bright spot. He continued to play at a high level, earning another Pro Bowl nod in 2022 while providing veteran leadership to a young and developing defense.
However, injuries began to take a toll, and by 2024, Allen’s role with the Commanders was diminished. With a new coaching staff and front-office leadership in place, Washington ultimately decided to move on from one of its longest-tenured players.
The decision to release Allen was primarily a financial move, as Washington looks to clear cap space and retool its roster. However, his departure leaves a significant hole in the defensive line, and finding a suitable replacement will be a top priority for the team moving forward.
As for Allen, his next destination remains uncertain, but there is no doubt he will have several suitors. Teams in need of an experienced defensive lineman with pass-rushing ability will likely be lining up to sign him.
Potential landing spots include contenders like the Baltimore Ravens, Dallas Cowboys, or Kansas City Chiefs, all of whom could use a veteran presence on the defensive line. A return to Alabama’s home state with the Atlanta Falcons is also a possibility.
Regardless of where he signs, Allen will bring a championship pedigree, a strong work ethic, and the ability to impact games at a high level. He has proven throughout his career that he can be a difference-maker, both as a pass rusher and run defender.
For Alabama fans, Allen’s journey is another example of how the Crimson Tide continues to produce elite talent for the NFL. His success at both the college and professional levels serves as an inspiration for current and future Alabama players.
As the free agency period approaches, all eyes will be on where Jonathan Allen lands next. Whether he joins a Super Bowl contender or helps build a new defensive powerhouse, one thing is certain—he still has plenty of football left to play.
After years of being a cornerstone in Washington, Allen is ready for the next chapter of his career. His legacy with the Commanders is secure, but now, he has an opportunity to prove he still belongs among the league’s best defensive linemen.
Wherever he goes, his new team will be getting a battle-tested veteran with a winning mentality. The Jonathan Allen free agency sweepstakes is officially underway, and it won’t be long before he finds his next NFL home.
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