Captain back for the playoffs?
Jonathan Allen suffered a torn pec during the Washington Commanders’ Week 6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens on October 13th. It was feared that he was lost for the season, but ESPN’s John Keim reports that he has been working out at team facilities and he is trying to return by the end of the month
Allen suffered the injury in a Week 6 loss at Baltimore, but during surgery doctors discovered that his muscle was only partially torn, sparking the initial hope for a late-season return. Further checkups have at least helped him maintain the belief that a return is possible, sources said.
There’s still a chance Jon Allen could return this season. https://t.co/7HUsuyWUL6
— John Keim (@john_keim) December 13, 2024
The Washington Commanders’ defensive line has gone through a lot of changes this year, and Allen’s injury tested their depth. Rookie Jer’Zhan Newton dealt with Jones fracture surgeries to both of his feet before he could join the DL. Daron Payne is still the anchor of the Commanders’ line, but he hasn’t lived up to his new contract since signing it. Phidarian Mathis was a healthy scratch before the bye, and has been a disappointment since Ron Rivera over drafted him in the 2nd round three offseasons ago.
Allen’s return could be a boost to the team as they make their final push for the playoffs. His contract is expected to be a big topic after the season as the team could save $17 million by moving on from him. Washington has turned down trade interest for him multiple times, but a late-seaaon return could renew the calls from other teams. The focus for now is getting to, and winning in, the playoffs, and a healthy Jonathan Allen would improve the team”s chances.