Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has been vocal that he is tired of losing. As the Commanders have lost nine of its last 11 games, Allen has routinely delivered rants.
Following a 45-15 loss on Sunday against the Miami Dolphins, Allen stressed he was done with building character. Who can forget his viral expletive-laced tirade, highlighting the team losing during his seven-year career?
All of that pales in comparison to what Allen said during his weekly appearance on 106.7 the Fan’s The Sports Junkies.
Allen was asked if he considered playing for another team for a chance to win. The question opened the Pandora’s box.
“One thousand percent. I mean I’d be lying if I said I didn’t,” Allen admitted. “I play this game to win, and I would love to win here for sure, but I want to win first and foremost. That’s always going to be at the front and center of my mind and everything I’m going to be doing in my career is going to make sure I’ll have an opportunity to win.”
Is Jonathan Allen preparing his exit from Washington?
Allen’s answer will spark a fire in the DC Sports world. He is in the second year of a four-year, $72 million contract extension. If Allen wanted out of Washington to win, he likely had to get traded. Allen said he will talk with his agent this offseason about requesting a trade.
“If that’s what it takes, maybe, but I’m not gonna sit here and talk about possibilities in the future,” Allen said. “I’m gonna focus on these next four games, do what I can to help this team win and then we’ll evaluate things after the season. I wanna win, and I genuinely believe that we can do it here, but again, I gotta sit down after the season and make the decision that’s best for me and my family. By no means am I saying I’m leaving, but you have to consider things.”
Jonathan Allen has played seven seasons with the Commanders after starring — and winning — at Alabama. A defensive captain, Allen has become the face of the Commanders defense, making the Pro Bowl each of the last two seasons.
Yet, winning has not materialized. If Allen hits the market, there are sure to be suitors. He has collected 39.0 career sacks, the most by any Washington interior defensive lineman.
Washington is on the path of an organizational reset after four disappointing seasons under head coach Ron Rivera. The team’s new ownership led by majority owner Josh Harris expects to make a change at the head coach and the front office.
The Commanders expect to enter the offseason with $90 million of salary cap space, and moving on from Allen could free at least $9.5 million of cap space.
Since October, Allen has made it clear he is tired of not winning. He may be preparing his exit out of Washington.
