The Washington Commanders signed 12 undrafted free agents ahead of its rookie minicamp. One of the most intriguing names from the group is the speedy 5-foot-8 wide receiver Kazmeir Allen out of UCLA.
Allen’s blazing 4.40 speed, vision, and open-field boost could help him lead a spot on Washington’s roster on special teams.
After losing DeAndre Carter in free agency last year, the Commanders struggled to find a viable option to stick returning kickoffs and punts. Dax Milne and Alex Erickson were too bland. Using Antonio Gibson, Jaret Patterson, and Jonathan Williams stretched the running backs thin.
That’s where Allen may come into play. He could slot in as the primary returner. His shiftiness and burst are ideal for the special teams’ role. When asked about Allen’s chances of being the Commanders primary returner, head coach Ron Rivera acknowledged he is taking notice.
“He’s a young man that certainly has gotten our attention,” Rivera said, per Nicki Jhabvala of The Washington Post.
At UCLA, Allen got used in various ways on offense and special teams. He gained 1,054 yards on 39 kickoffs with one touchdown in his last two seasons as a Bruin. He averaged 27.0 yards.
Allen also could grow into a versatile role on offense. In college, he was used as a wideout and running back. Last season, Allen had 49 receptions for 403 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 203 yards on 15 carries with two touchdowns.
If Allen can stick as a returner, new Commanders offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy may be intrigued to carve out a role for Kazmeir Allen on offense.
