The Washington Football Team finally agreed to terms with defensive tackle Jonathan Allen on a four-year contract extension just before training camp on Monday.
Allen’s reported pact is worth up to $72 million.
This was a big move for Washington’s front office, led by head coach Ron Rivera. The Football Team could ill-afford to head into the regular season with Allen in the final year of his deal and the team relying on the franchise tag to keep him in place for 2022.
With Allen in place, what is the next piece of business for Rivera and general manager, Martin Mayhew?
Wide receiver Terry McLaurin is the next big-money deal. However, Washington cannot negotiate an extension with McLaurin until after his third NFL season — after the 2021 season.
Washington has control of defensive tackle Daron Payne for two more years, meaning talks on an extension likely would not occur until after this upcoming season.
Scherff is an easy answer, but as we know, talks with Scherff on a new deal have been anything but easy. After playing on two consecutive franchise tags, the odds aren’t good for Scherff returning to Washington in 2022.
Two players who could be next in line are tight end Logan Thomas and running back J.D. McKissic.
Coaches could be waiting to see another season of each player, specifically Thomas. The former quarterback had a breakout season in 2020 with 72 receptions. If Thomas gets off to a fast start in 2021, Washington would be wise to strike a deal with Thomas. Any deal with Thomas will not break the bank, and he’s a versatile and reliable player who is also a solid blocker.
McKissic is another player who won’t cost a lot. How does the coaching staff view McKissic? Does it view him as a vital offensive piece or a player who benefitted from Alex Smith checking it down often in 2020?
With McKissic, the truth lies in the middle. He is a good player who can serve multiple roles.
Washington’s front office is going to have its hands full in the coming seasons. You have potential future deals for McLaurin, Payne, Montez Sweat, and Chase Young and, at some point, are going to get involved in the franchise quarterback market.
With last’s season extension for center Chase Roullier and the Allen extension, the team is off to a good start.
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