Jonathan Allen Injury News & Updates
Keep up with the latest injuries from the Bengals vs Vikings game on Sunday with our National Football League injury report.Sep 10, 2025
Pressures QB in season opener
Allen had three total tackles, a QB hit and five QB hurries, according to Pro Football Focus, in Monday's win at Chicago.
ANALYSIS
Allen had a mixed performance tackling with two missed tackles and two stops, but was impactful in the pass rush. He played on 52 of the defense's 67 snaps as he'll be mainstay on the interior defensive line.
Mar 11, 2025
Agrees to deal with Vikings
Allen is signing a three-year, $60 million contract with the Vikings, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
The Commanders released Allen on Friday after he failed to generate interest on his old contract. His new deal isn't quite at the top of the market for defensive tackles, but it can't really be called a paycut either. A pectoral tear limited the 30-year-old to eight games in his final season with the Commanders, but he had at least 5.5 sacks and 17 QB hits in each of the three preceding campaigns, maintaining a reputation as one of the league's more impactful interior pass rushers. Allen's work against the run has been less impressive, especially in recent years, but he's never lacked for tackles, topping 60 in six straight seasons before slumping to 53 in 2023 and then 19 in 2024 (301 snaps).
Mar 10, 2025
Visiting Minnesota
The Vikings are hosting Allen for a visit Monday, Kevin Seifert of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen, who was released by the Commanders on Friday after having previously been given permission to seek a trade, is already exploring his options in free agency. The 30-year-old defensive tackle racked up 19 tackles (16 solo), including 3.0 sacks across eight regular-season appearances in 2024, and he could help fill a position of need for Minnesota's defensive line.
Mar 7, 2025
Done with Washington
The Commanders released Allen on Friday, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Washington gave Allen permission to seek a trade a little over a week ago, but now he won't need to bother, as he'll become an unrestricted free agent. The two-time Pro Bowl selection just turned 30 in January and will likely draw interest from multiple teams looking for help on the interior of the defensive line.
Feb 25, 2025
Given permission to seek trade
The Commanders have given Allen permission to seek a trade this offseason, Jordan Schultz of Fox Sports reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen is entering the final year of his four-year, $72 million extension and recently turned 30 years old in January. After playing in at least 15 games each season from 2018-2023, Allen appeared in just eight contests this past campaign, finishing with 19 tackles, including 3.0 sacks. Allen is scheduled to collect a $15.5 million salary in 2025 and another $1.5 million in potential bonuses. Trading him would clear over $16.47 million in salary cap space for the Commanders.
Feb 1, 2025
Hampered by injury in 2024
Allen played in eight regular-season games in 2024, compiling 19 tackles (16 solo), including 3.0 sacks.
ANALYSIS
Allen tore his left pectoral Week 6 against Baltimore and wasn't able to return to action until Week 17. When healthy, he worked as a starter and managed a trio of sacks, and he logged his biggest workload of the campaign in Washington's NFC Championship Game loss to the Eagles, tallying five tackles and recording a season-high 51 defensive snaps. Allen was a Pro Bowler in 2021 and 2022 but has been less productive in the subsequent two campaigns. He's signed through next season, but it's not a lock that the Commanders will keep him around given that they could save $17 million in cap space by cutting him.
Dec 28, 2024
Activated off IR, will play Sunday
The Commanders activated Allen (pectoral) from injured reserve Saturday, and he carries no injury designation heading into Sunday's game against the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Allen suffered a torn left pectoral muscle during the Commanders' Week 6 loss to the Ravens. He was designated to return from injured reserve Dec. 18 and was activated off IR after logging full practices all week. Allen will likely reclaim his starting spot at defensive tackle alongside Daron Payne while Jer'Zhan Newton and Sheldon Day provide rotational depth.
Dec 27, 2024
Could return Sunday
Allen (pectoral) is listed as questionable ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Allen has missed the Commanders' last nine game due to a pectoral injury, but he was designated to return from injured reserve Dec. 18 and practiced in full throughout the week, so it appears he's trending toward playing in Week 17. However, the 29-year-old must still be added to Washington's active roster in order to suit up Sunday. If activated, Allen is likely to start alongside Daron Payne as part of the Commanders' top interior defensive linemen duo.
Dec 25, 2024
Listed as full participant
The Commanders listed Allen (pectoral) as a full participant in Wednesday's practice estimate.
ANALYSIS
Allen was designated tor return from injured reserve on Dec. 18 and now appears closer to making his return. The 2017 first-round pick hasn't played since the team's Week 6 loss versus the Ravens but should have a chance to play in Sunday's game versus the Falcons.
Dec 20, 2024
Out vs. Eagles
Allen (pectoral) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against Philadelphia, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen has been recovering from a torn left pectoral muscle he underwent in Week 6. The veteran defensive tackle was designated for return from injured reserve this Wednesday, but he'll miss at least another game as he aims to return for Week 17 or 18. He recorded 15 tackles (13 solo) and 2.0 sacks across the first six games of the season.
Dec 18, 2024
Practice window opens
The Commanders designated Allen (pectoral) for return from injured reserve Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Allen, who has been recovering from a torn left pectoral muscle sustained during Week 6, will have 21 days to be evaluated at practice without counting against the 53-man roster. He can be fully activated at any point during that stretch, meaning Allen could tentatively retake the field as early as Sunday versus the Eagles, depending on his recovery progress. John Keim of ESPN.com reports, though, that while Allen's injury wasn't as bad as initially feared, his best chances of returning in the regular season will come Week 17 or Week 18.
Oct 16, 2024
Shifts to IR
The Commanders placed Allen (pectoral) on injured reserve Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Allen sustained a torn left pectoral muscle in the Commanders' Week 6 loss to the Ravens, so Wednesday's move to IR comes as no surprise. Expect 2024 second-round pick Jer'Zhan Newton to see increased work with Washington's first-team defensive line alongside Daron Payne while Allen recovers from this injury.
Oct 14, 2024
Won't return in 2024
Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed Monday that Allen tore his left pectoral in Sunday's 30-23 loss to the Ravens, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen played 36 defensive snaps and recorded two total tackles before exiting Sunday's loss with a torn left pectoral muscle. The Pro Bowl defensive lineman had accumulated 15 total tackles, including 2.0 sacks, across the Commanders' first six games this season. With Allen sidelined for the remainder of the year, expect rookie second-round pick Jer'Zhan Newton to take on an increased role and start alongside Daron Payne on Washington's defensive line.
Oct 14, 2024
Injury could be season-ending
The pectoral injury that Allen sustained during Sunday's game at Baltimore may require season-ending surgery, Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen is seeking a second opinion, but his prognosis doesn't seem good at this point. Even if he's not out for the rest of the year, a stint on the Commanders' injured reserve list could be in his future. Either way, rookie second-rounder Jer'Zhan Newton seems to be in line for an uptick in reps moving forward.
Oct 13, 2024
Won't return due to pectoral injury
Allen has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Ravens due to a pectoral injury, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen recorded two solo tackles before leaving the game in the second half. Dorance Armstrong (ribs) has also been ruled out, so Washington's defensive line will be extremely shorthanded the rest of the way.
Oct 7, 2024
Logs sack in win
Allen registered five tackles (four solo), with 1.0 sack, in Washington's win Sunday versus Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Allen has now recorded a sack in back-to-back games, bringing his total on the season to 2.0. He will continue this streak and bring down Lamar Jackson during next week's matchup versus the Ravens.
Oct 1, 2024
Logs first sack of season in Week 4
Allen tallied five tackles (four solo), including 1.0 sacks, during Sunday's 42-14 win over the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Allen registered his first regular-season sack Sunday since Week 11 of last year, when he got to Kyler Murray for a seven-yard loss late in the third quarter. Allen did see a slight decrease in his snap count compared to Week 3 against the Bengals, but that was due to game script as the Commanders led by a large margin in the fourth quarter. Through the first four regular-season games, Allen has totaled nine tackles (seven solo), including 1.0 sacks.
May 24, 2024
Participating at OTAs
Allen (knee) is a full participant at Washington's organized team activities, Zach Selby of the team's official website reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen missed one game during the 2023 season, which happened to be the regular-season finale. The cause of his absence was a knee injury. His full participation at OTAs indicates his health is back up to par. The 2017 first-round pick accumulated 53 tackles (30 solo) and 5.5 sacks last year, and he projects to once again start on the Commanders' interior defensive line in the upcoming season.
Jan 23, 2024
Records 53 tackles, 5.5 sacks
Allen (knee) finished 2023 with 53 tackles (30 solo), 5.5 sacks and one pass defense in 16 games.
ANALYSIS
The only game he missed was Week 18, and he recorded the second-most QB hits (19) of his career despite having four other seasons with more sacks. On the other hand, PFF graded Allen at No. 124 out of 137 qualified interior d-linemen for run defense, suggesting that what had once been one of his strengths as a defensive end on early downs has become a weakness now that he lines up at defensive tackle for about three-fourths of his snaps. It is possible a new coaching staff in Washington will want Allen on the edge more, though the 300-pounder has always manned the interior at least half the time since entering the league as a first-round pick in 2017. He has two years remaining on a four-year, $72 million extension, with non-guaranteed base salaries of $14 million (2024) and $15.5 million (2025) perhaps creating some question about his future under new management in Washington.
Jan 5, 2024
Missing Week 18
Allen (knee) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Cowboys, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old defensive tackle recorded back-to-back DNPs to open the Commanders' week of practice, and he's now in line to miss his first game of the season in Week 18. With Allen missing Sunday's affair, expect Phidarian Mathis to shoulder more work on Washington's defensive line.
Jan 3, 2024
Tending to knee injury
Allen (knee) did not participate at practice Wednesday, John Keim of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
It's not clear when Allen picked up the knee issue or how serious it might be, but it puts his availability for Week 18 in jeopardy in any case. He'll probably have to return to practice Thursday or Friday to give himself a chance to play Sunday.
Jan 2, 2024
Productive in loss
Allen logged five total tackles (three solo) in Sunday's 27-10 loss to the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
The Pro Bowl defensive tackle put up the third-most tackles he's recorded in a game this season Sunday, bringing his total up to 53 stops on the year. Allen has had another productive year for the Commanders' defense, appearing in all 16 of the team's games thus far and ranking second in both tackles for loss (10) and sacks (5.5). The 28-year-old will look to end the season on a positive note in Week 18's game against the Cowboys.
Nov 21, 2023
Registers in sack column again
Allen recorded four tackles (three solo) including 1.5 sacks in Sunday's 31-19 loss versus the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Allen got into the sack column for the second straight game and for the fifth time this season in Week 11. He's undoubtedly one of the best defensive tackles in football, but the ability of offences to double-team him keeps him from being an elite IDP option.
Nov 14, 2023
Tallies sack in loss
Allen accumulated four solo tackles and one sack in the Commanders' Week 10 loss to the Seahawks.
ANALYSIS
Allen's sack brings his season total up to four across 10 games. He saw the field for 62 defensive snaps (84 percent), which was his second highest total of the season. The defensive tackle will attempt to make it back-to-back games with a sack in Week 11 when Washington hosts the Giants.
Oct 29, 2023
Potential trade candidate
Allen and the other Commanders defensive linemen are subject to trade rumors in advance of Tuesday's trade deadline, Jay Glazer reported on Fox NFL Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Allen has expressed some discontent with the organization and thus might be the most likely of the Commanders linemen to go. He's cleared to play for Sunday against the Eagles this week.
Oct 20, 2023
Will suit up at Giants
Allen (knee) does not carry an injury designation into Sunday's game at the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Allen was able to manage a full practice Friday after being limited Wednesday and Thursday, leaving no doubt he'll play in Week 7. He'll remain a starter and one of the most impactful defensive tackles in the league Sunday.
Oct 18, 2023
Limited Wednesday
Allen (knee) was a limited participant at Washington's practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Allen played 84 percent of the Commanders' defensive snaps while playing the entirety of their 24-16 win over Atlanta in Week 6, so his limited participation Wednesday is likely for rest purposes. His knee is worth monitoring as the week goes on and Allen will have two more practice sessions to increase his workload ahead of Sunday's divisional matchup with New York.
Sep 11, 2023
Records sack in win
Allen had three tackles (two for a loss) and a sack in Sunday's 20-16 win over the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Allen played in 51 of the team's 58 defensive snaps, a good sign that he is over the plantar fasciitis injury that limited him during training camp. The 2017 first-round pick has recorded at least six sacks in four of the past five seasons and is a key piece for Washington's defensive front. Allen and the Commanders will hit the road for Week 2 to face the Broncos on Sunday.
Sep 6, 2023
All clear for Week 1
Allen was absent from Washington's injury report Wednesday ahead of Sunday's game versus Arizona.
ANALYSIS
It's a welcome sight for the Commanders, who can now count on the availability of their two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle until further notice. While one of football's most impactful defensive lineman, that doesn't necessarily translate to elite fantasy production.
Aug 19, 2023
Nursing plantar fasciitis
Allen has been dealing with plantar fasciitis, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Head coach Ron Rivera indicated the issue is not serious. Still, it is worth noting, and it would not be surprising to see the Commanders exercise caution with Allen in the immediate future. The primary goal is to make sure the team's starting right defensive tackle is at full health when Week 1 comes around.
Jun 13, 2023
Back at practice
Allen (knee) has been participating in OTAs, Zach Selby of the Commanders' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen was seen working with fellow defensive lineman Daron Payne, Montez Sweat and Chase Young at the first practice of minicamp this past Wednesday. Allen missed the final game of the 2022 season with a knee injury and finished the campaign with 64 tackles, 7.5 sacks, two forced fumbles and an interception in 16 games.
Jan 6, 2023
Out for season finale
Allen (knee) has been ruled out for Sunday's contest against the Cowboys, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen will miss the Commanders' season finale in Week 18 as he nurses the knee injury he sustained in the team's Week 17 loss to the Browns. The defensive tackle will finish his 2022 campaign with 64 tackles, including 7.5 sacks, while intercepting a pass, deflecting three others and forcing two fumbles over 16 contests. John Ridgeway could step into a starting role in Allen's absence Sunday versus Dallas.
Jan 1, 2023
Will not return
Allen (knee) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Browns, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen exited the game in the first half and was initially questionable to return. This is a devastating blow to the Commanders' defense, especially if it's an injury that would keep him out for Week 18 as well. John Ridgeway and David Bada will both likely see an uptick in opportunities while Allen is sidelined.
Jan 1, 2023
Exits with injury
Allen has left Sunday's game against the Browns with a knee injury.
ANALYSIS
Allen left in the second quarter with the injury and he is questionable to return. As Allen is a significant part of the team's defensive front, his absence will certainly be felt. While he is out, John Ridgeway and David Bada will both likely see an uptick in opportunities.
Dec 27, 2022
Moderate effort in loss
Allen recorded six tackles (two solo) in Saturday's 37-20 loss to the 49ers.
ANALYSIS
Allen played all but two of Washington's defensive snaps this past weekend against San Francisco, while he's also amassed at least five stops in each of the last four games. The 27-year-old is now just five more tackles and two more sacks away from setting new career highs in those departments, and he'll have two contests remaining to do so.
Dec 7, 2022
Eight tackles in tie
Allen recorded eight tackles (seven solo), a tackle for loss, a sack and a forced fumble against the Giants in the 20-20 tie Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Allen registered his 7.5 sack of the season, just 1.5 sacks shy of his career high from last year. The Pro Bowl defensive tackle also forced his second fumble of the season which was recovered by Jamin Davis and led to a field goal. Allen played more than 90 percent of the snaps for the second straight week and third time of the season and will look to continue this production after the bye week in a rematch against the Giants.
Nov 21, 2022
Two sacks in dominant win
Allen recorded three solo tackles, including two sacks, in Sunday's 23-10 victory over the Texans.
ANALYSIS
Allen was able to bring down Davis Mills for a sack in the first quarter before later doing it again in the third period, registering his first multi-sack performance of the season. Overall, the defensive tackle has now produced 39 tackles, including 6.5 sacks, while deflecting three passes, intercepting another and forcing a fumble over 11 games this year.
Nov 1, 2022
Eight stops in late win
Allen logged eight tackles (two solo), including two tackles for loss, in Sunday's 17-16 win against the Colts.
ANALYSIS
Allen tied with safety Bobby McCain for a team high in total and solo tackles in this contest. The defensive tackle has now recorded 31 tackles (22 solo), 3.5 sacks, three passes defended, one interception and a forced fumble over eight games in 2022. Allen should continue to pose a significant problem for opposing offensive lines this season.
Oct 16, 2022
Fills stat sheet in win
Allen recorded four tackles, one sack, one interception and one forced fumble during Thursday's 12-7 win over the Bears.
ANALYSIS
Allen caught his first-career interception late in the first quarter of Thursday's contest when the ball projected up in the air following a throw off of a Washington defensive lineman's helmet. The sixth-year pro now has 23 tackles and 3.5 sacks through the team's first six games, and he'll likely play heavy snaps again next Sunday versus the Packers.
Oct 3, 2022
Racks up eight tackles
Allen posted eight tackles (five solo), including a sack, and a pass defense during the Commanders' 25-10 loss to Dallas on Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Allen didn't record more than four tackles in any of the first three games of the season, but he tied for the team lead with eight stops during Sunday's defeat. The 27-year-old now has 17 tackles (12 solo), including two sacks, and two pass defenses over the first four games of the season.
Sep 18, 2022
Active against Detroit
Allen (groin) is active Week 2 against Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Allen logged three tackles and a sack across 50 snaps on defense in the Week 1 matchup against Jacksonville, but he came away with a groin injury that resulted in a late addition to the injury report this week. That ultimately won't prevent the sixth-year veteran from suiting up and resuming his regular role on the Washington defensive front.
Sep 17, 2022
Added to injury report
Allen is a late addition to the Commanders' injury report ahead of Sunday's matchup with the Lions and is now listed as questionable due to a groin injury, Adam Schefter of ESPN reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen tweaked his groin in Washington's season-opening victory over the Jaguars. He subsequently underwent a precautionary MRI and was cleared for Week 2. It is unclear if he has suffered some type of setback, but his status is now up in the air for Sunday. Some combination of Efe Obada, Daniel Wise and Donovan Jeter would be in line to replace his snaps if he is ultimately unable to go.
Sep 16, 2022
Cleared for Week 2
Allen doesn't have an injury designation ahead of Sunday's matchup against the Lions.
ANALYSIS
Allen underwent a precautionary MRI on Monday after tweaking his groin during Washington's season-opening win. He was limited at practice Wednesday and Thursday, but he appears to be fine heading into Week 2. The 2017 first-round pick recorded three tackles and a sack in Week 1 and will look to continue his strong play against Detroit on Sunday.
Sep 15, 2022
Completes limited practice
Allen (groin) logged a limited practice Thursday, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen received an MRI on his groin after the team's Week 1 matchup with the Jaguars. He referred to the test as "precautionary," and that he felt "fine." However, this is the second straight day of limited practices for the veteran tackle. If he were unable to take the field against the Lions on Sunday, Efe Obada and Daniel Wise would likely be looking at extra opportunity.
Sep 12, 2022
Says MRI is precautionary
Allen (groin) said Monday that he feels "fine" and the MRI on his groin was mostly "a precaution," Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
The exact severity of the injury that forced Allen out of Washington's 28-22 win versus Jacksonville is still unknown, but his words are an encouraging sign. He notched a sack before exiting, so the Commanders will certainly hope he can return for Week 2 at Detroit. If he can't though, Efe Obada and Daniel Wise are probably the next men up.
Sep 12, 2022
Set for MRI
Allen (groin) is scheduled to undergo an MRI on Monday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen racked up three tackles and one sack before being forced out of Sunday's 28-22 win over Jacksonville. The sixth-year defensive tackle's MRI results should provide more clarity on the nature of his groin issue, and also his Week 2 availability status against Detroit. If Allen misses any time, Efe Obada and Daniel Wise are candidates to fill in on Washington's defensive front.
Dec 18, 2021
Activated off COVID list
Allen (undisclosed) has been activated off the reserve/COVID-19 list.
ANALYSIS
Allen has apparently cleared the league's health and safety protocols and will be available for Tuesday's matchup with the Eagles. He projects to start at defensive tackle per usual.
Dec 13, 2021
Tests positive for COVID-19
Washington placed Allen on the reserve/COVID-19 list Monday after he tested positive for the virus, JP Finlay of NBC Sports Washington reports.
ANALYSIS
According to Finlay, Allen is vaccinated, so he'll be eligible to play this upcoming Sunday in Philadelphia if he's asymptomatic for a 48-hour period and turns in two negative COVID-19 tests at least 24 hours apart. Allen has been Washington's top defensive lineman this season, and his potential absence Week 15 would be devastating for a squad that played without its top four defensive ends in the Football Team's Week 14 loss to the Cowboys.
Dec 10, 2021
Cleared of injury designation
Allen (groin) doesn't carry an injury designation into Sunday's matchup against the Cowboys, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen sustained a minor groin injury during Washington's Week 13 win over the Raiders, but he was able to play through the issue and totaled two tackles and half a sack during the victory. However, he did play a season-low 54 percent of the team's defensive snaps, so he may be limited again during Sunday's divisional showdown with the Cowboys.
Dec 6, 2021
Managing minor groin issue
Coach Ron Rivera revealed Monday that Allen sustained a minor groin injury during Sunday's win over the Raiders, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen was able to play through his injury Sunday, but he'll be examined by the team's medical staff Monday to determine the extent of the issue. The 26-year-old totaled two tackles and half a sack in Sunday's victory.
Oct 25, 2021
Tallies two sacks
Allen had two sacks during Sunday's 24-10 loss at Green Bay.
ANALYSIS
Allen played 62 percent of the defensive snaps and brought down Aaron Rodgers twice during the first half, but he didn't have any production the rest of the contest. The 26-year-old has 26 tackles (13 solo) and five sacks through seven games this season.
Oct 5, 2021
Eight tackles in win
Allen made eight tackles (three solo) during Sunday's 34-30 win over the Falcons.
ANALYSIS
Allen registered a season-high eight tackles Sunday, but he couldn't get to the quarterback. The 26-year-old got off to a hot start with three sacks through the first two games, but he has failed to record one for two straight weeks.
Sep 18, 2021
Puts up two more sacks
Allen recorded six tackles (five solo) and two sacks in Thursday's 30-29 win over the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Allen now has three sacks through two games, topping last year's mark already. Last season was a down year for Allen in the sack department, as he posted 14 sacks between the 2018 and 2019 seasons. His consistent tackling numbers provide the steady IDP floor, as Allen posted 60-plus stops in each of the last three campaigns.
Aug 4, 2021
Returns from hamstring injury
Allen (hamstring) returned to team drills Wednesday, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
A few missed days of practice early in camp shouldn't make much difference for Allen, who recently signed a four-year, $72 million extension. He had just two sacks last season -- down from eight and six the previous two years -- but he did notch 63 tackles and 14 QB hits while starting all 16 games for a top-five defense.
Aug 2, 2021
Hamstring injury
Allen (hamstring) is considered day-to-day due to an injury, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen's injury doesn't appear severe, but Washington has nothing to lose by holding him out of early camp activities, so it seems likely the team will be cautious. The 2017 first-round pick inked a four-year extension back in March, positioning himself to once again serve as a pillar of the Football Team's defensive line.
Jan 12, 2021
Starts every game
Allen was a 16-game starter in 2020, notching 63 tackles (63 solo) and two sacks while playing 77.4 percent of defensive snaps.
ANALYSIS
Only DT Daron Payne (84.3 percent) played more snaps among Washington defensive linemen, though edge rushers Chase Young (73.7 percent) and Montez Sweat (66.3 percent) weren't too far behind. While a lack of sacks may give the appearance of a disappointing season, Allen was fourth on the team in tackles and second in QB hits (14), grading out as PFF's No. 18 interior defensive linemen in his first season primarily playing tackle rather than end. The new role may not have been ideal for IDP purposes, but Allen's versatility was crucial to Washington fielding a top-10 defense, so he'll likely stick around for 2021 under the fifth-year option on his rookie contract. His long-term future in D.C. remains shaky, as Washington's collection of young talent is strongly skewed toward the defensive line.
Dec 18, 2020
Ready for Sunday's contest
Allen (groin) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game versus the Seahawks, John Boyle of the Seahawks' official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen had his practice reps managed this week but will suit up in Week 15. The fourth-year defensive tackle has consistently played more than 70 percent of the snaps on defense per game, posting 48 tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery through 13 contests.
Dec 16, 2020
Still dealing with injury
Allen (groin) was a limited participant during Wednesday's practice, Kyle Stackpole of Washington's official site reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen suffered the injury late in Sunday's win over the 49ers, but the good news is that he was able to practice in some capacity Wednesday. The Alabama product has been strong this season, racking up 48 tackles (28 solo) and two sacks through 13 games. If Allen were to suffer a setback, Tim Settle would be in line for an uptick in snaps for Sunday's game against Seattle.
Dec 13, 2020
Exits with groin injury
Allen (groin) is questionable to return to Sunday's game against the 49ers, Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen was forced out of Sunday's game midway through the fourth quarter. As long as he's sidelined, Tim Settle could have a chance to handle a key role on defense.
Sep 29, 2020
Leads team in tackles Sunday
Allen made nine tackles (seven solo) and a sack in Sunday's 34-20 loss to the Browns.
ANALYSIS
Allen tied with Jon Bostic for the team lead in tackles, and he now has 1.5 sacks this season. The 2017 first-round pick also logged a season-high 79 percent of defensive snaps, and he could maintain that snap share moving forward with Matthew Ioannidis (torn biceps) done for the season. He'll have a tough matchup in Week 4, though, as the Ravens come to town.
Apr 27, 2020
Getting fifth-year option
Washington is picking up the fifth-year option on Allen's rookie contract, Kevin Sheehan of The Team 980 reports.
ANALYSIS
After missing 11 games his rookie season, the 2017 first-round pick is coming off back-to-back campaign with at least six sacks and more than 60 tackles. Allen spent the past three years playing defensive end in a 3-4 scheme, but he'll likely move to defensive tackle as Ron Rivera and Jack Del Rio transition the team to a 4-3 base alignment. With Allen, Daron Payne and Matthew Ioannidis providing interior push while Chase Young, Montez Sweat and Ryan Kerrigan come off the edge, Washington has potential to sport a dominant pass rush in 2020. Allen's fifth-year option for 2021 will be guaranteed for injury only.
Dec 20, 2019
Ready for Week 16
Allen (toe) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Giants.
ANALYSIS
Allen began the week as a limited practice participant, but he practiced fully Friday to avoid the questionable tag. The 24-year-old should work in his typical starting role at defensive end this weekend.
Dec 18, 2019
Dealing with toe injury
Allen has a toe injury and was a limited participant at practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Allen saw his typical workload in Sunday's loss to the Eagles and recorded a season-high nine tackles, but he apparently didn't finish the contest unscathed. However, the fact the 24-year-old is practicing in some capacity to begin the week puts him on track to play this weekend.
Nov 22, 2019
Good to go Week 12
Allen (ankle/knee) won't carry an injury designation into Sunday's game against the Lions.
ANALYSIS
Allen began the week not practicing but put in a full session Friday to avoid the questionable tag. The 24-year-old has 38 tackles (24 solo) and four sacks through nine games and should see a heavy workload again Sunday.
Nov 21, 2019
Limited in practice Thursday
Allen (ankle/knee) was a limited participant in practice Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Allen was a surprise DNP on Wednesday's injury report but was already back out there Thursday. He is trending the right direction for Sunday's tilt with the Lions.
Nov 20, 2019
Battling two injuries
Allen (ankle/knee) didn't practice Wednesday.
ANALYSIS
Allen logged a season-high 59 defensive snap during this past Sunday's loss to the Jets, so it's unclear how he sustained these issues. The 2017 first-round pick's status for this Sunday's matchup against the Lions will be in doubt unless he can get onto the practice field in some capacity.
Sep 23, 2019
Active versus Chicago
Allen (knee) is officially active for Monday's tilt against the Bears, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen was initially listed as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears, but he appears to have succeeded in shaking his knee injury. The 2017 first-round pick looks set for his usual starting role along Washington's defensive line.
Sep 21, 2019
Officially questionable
The Redskins have officially listed Allen (knee) as questionable for Monday's game against the Bears.
ANALYSIS
Allen saw his workload increase each day at practice week, and even went as far as to deem himself ready to play. Although the team still opted to label him questionable, he appears on track to make his season debut. Allen recorded eight sacks in 2018, so his presence would certainly be beneficial to a Redskins' defensive that has gotten to the quarterback just twice through two games.
Sep 20, 2019
Deems self ready
Allen (knee) was a limited participant in Friday's practice but said he'll play Monday versus the Bears, Kareem Copeland of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen dropped eight pounds to help his injured knee, and he said he feels great. Coach Jay Gruden isn't as certain about Allen's status, saying Allen "looked good" but he still needs a solid practice Saturday to be confirmed as ready. The Redskins' defense has only made two sacks this season, so having Allen (eight sacks in 2018) back could rejuvenate the unit.
Sep 19, 2019
Still not practicing
Allen (knee) hasn't returned to practice and head coach Jon Gruden said Thursday that the team is "just making sure he's going to be okay before he starts individual drills and practice," Les Carpenter of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen originally sustained the sprained knee in Washington's season opener and missed last Sunday's matchup with Dallas because of it. Gruden expressed hope that the 2017 first-round pick would be able to fully practice this week, but it has yet to come to fruition. With the Redskins not facing the Bears until Monday, Allen will have another day to rest and hopefully be prepared for the contest.
Sep 16, 2019
Individual drills on tap
Allen (knee) is expected to participate in individual drills this week, Ben Standig of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen is managing an MCL sprain suffered during Washington's season opener. He has not participated in practice since suffering the injury, so even being limited to individual drills would be a step in the right direction. Allen will have the benefit of an extra day to get healthy heading into Monday's tilt against the Bears.
Sep 13, 2019
Won't play Week 2
Allen (knee) was ruled out for Sunday's game against the Cowboys, The Team 980 reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen suffered the left MCL sprain in the season opener and was a non-participant at practice Wednesday and Thursday, so it's not a major surprise he won't be playing Sunday. Treyvon Hester figures to see an increased role in his absence, especially if Caleb Brantley (ankle) is also ruled out.
Sep 11, 2019
Absent from practice
Allen (knee) didn't participate in Wednesday's practice, Rhiannon Walker of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen also wasn't present on the team's rehab field, so they're clearly taking precautions on the third-year defensive end. The Redskins' pass rush will clearly take a hit in Sunday's game versus the Cowboys if he can't play, especially since Caleb Brantley (ankle) is also hurting. Treyvon Hester will likely start if Allen or Brantley can't go.
Sep 10, 2019
Injury not serious
Allen (knee) is not expected to be out long-term after suffering an MCL sprain in the Redskins' season opening loss to the Eagles, Kareem Copeland of The Washington Post reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen does not have a concrete time-frame for a return at this point, so consider him week-to-week. He has yet to officially be ruled out for Week 2, but it seems unlikely at this point. Caleb Brantley (ankle), Treyvon Hester, and even T.Y. McGill should all be in line for bigger workloads assuming he sits out.
Sep 9, 2019
Unlikely for Week 2
Allen (knee) is considered week-to-week and is not expected to play in Sunday's game versus the Cowboys, Grant Paulsen of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Allen played just seven snaps in the season opener before leaving with a sprained knee. The Redskins planning to play without Allen so early in the week isn't a good sign for the third-year defensive end. With Caleb Brantley (ankle) also hurting, expect to see Tim Settle start at defensive end in Week 2's matchup versus Dallas.
Sep 8, 2019
Picks up injury
Allen suffered a left knee injury during Sunday's game against the Eagles and his return is questionable.
ANALYSIS
It's unclear how he picked up the injury, but it's apparently serious enough to force him to miss time. As long as Allen is sidelined, Caleb Brantley should see an increase in reps on the defensive line.