Washington Commanders may release Jonathan Allen if no trade partner is found
The Washington Commanders may release Jonathan Allen if they fail to find a trade partner by June 1, 2025. This would help the team free up $16.3 million in cap space, following his injury-plagued 2024 season.
The Washington Commanders are in a tight spot regarding the future of defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. After exploring trade options, the team may ultimately release the two-time Pro Bowler if they fail to secure a trade deal. Allen, with a hefty $22.3 million cap hit for 2025, is set to leave Washington after eight seasons, potentially bringing significant changes to their defensive line-up.
The potential move follows Allen's injury-ridden 2024 season, during which he missed nine games due to a torn pectoral muscle. Despite his recovery and return for postseason games, the team is prioritizing financial flexibility. If they can’t find a suitor for Allen, his release will save them substantial cap space ahead of the new season.
Washington Commanders' trade clock ticking down on Jonathan Allen's future. Photo: Sports Illustrated.
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Washington Commanders consider releasing Jonathan Allen amid trade talks
The Washington Commanders are currently in negotiations regarding the fate of defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. The team has been in discussions with various potential trade partners, but reports suggest they may be left with no choice but to release the two-time Pro Bowler if a trade deal doesn't materialize. With a significant $22.3 million cap hit scheduled for the 2025 season, the Commanders face tough decisions as they try to balance their books ahead of the new NFL year.
Allen's status has been up in the air for months. Though he has been an integral part of Washington’s defensive line since being drafted in 2017, his future with the team seems uncertain. According to reports, if the Commanders are unable to find a trade partner by the June 1 deadline, they will likely opt for a release. This move would clear up $16.3 million in cap space, providing the team with much-needed financial breathing room.
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Jonathan Allen's future in limbo as Commanders weigh release option
His potential release also follows a challenging season for Allen. The defensive tackle was side-lined for a significant portion of 2024 due to a torn pectoral muscle, ultimately missing nine games. Though he recovered and played in both the regular season's final two games and three postseason games, his injury history has made his future less predictable. As of now, the Commanders have had some interest in Allen from other teams, including a reported inquiry from the Seattle Seahawks before the 2023 trade deadline.
However, changes in coaching staff and team strategy have complicated potential deals. This leaves the team with few options as the 2025 season approaches. While it may seem a harsh decision, releasing Allen would allow Washington to invest the saved cap space into building a stronger roster moving forward. With the NFL's free agency period rapidly approaching, the team is likely to weigh its options carefully, considering both immediate needs and long-term goals. Allen’s departure would mark the end of an era for Washington’s defence, but it could also signal a new chapter with greater financial flexibility.