Jonathan Allen Granted Permission to Seek Trade
In a move signaling potential upheaval for the Washington Commanders’ defense, Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has been granted permission to seek a trade, per league sources on [Current Date]. The 29yearold lineman, a cornerstone of Washington’s defense since 2017, now faces an uncertain future as the Commanders pivot toward a rebuild under new head coach Dan Quinn. “My goal is to compete for championships,” Allen said in a recent interview, fueling speculation about his next destination.
Jonathan Allen Granted Permission to Seek Trade
Drafted 17th overall in 2017, Jonathan Allen has been a model of consistency for Washington, earning Pro Bowl nods in 2021 and 2022 while amassing 40 career sacks and 246 tackles. His 2023 campaign included 5.5 sacks and 15 QB hits, solidifying his reputation as one of the NFL’s premier interior disruptors ([Pro Football Focus](https://www.pff.com)). With three years remaining on his $72 million extension, Allen’s contract carries a $21.4 million cap hit in 2024, per [Spotrac](https://www.spotrac.com), complicating potential trade negotiations.
Why Are the Commanders Open to Trading Allen?
The Commanders’ decision aligns with their aggressive offseason overhaul. After hiring Dan Quinn and drafting QB Jayden Daniels second overall, Washington appears focused on accumulating assets for longterm contention. Trading Allen, 29, could free cap space for younger talent while netting draft capital. ESPN’s [Jeremy Fowler](https://twitter.com/JFowlerESPN) notes, “Allen’s leadership will be missed, but Washington is prioritizing flexibility in this new era.”
Top Trade Destinations for Jonathan Allen
1. Dallas Cowboys
Why It Works: Dallas needs defensive line reinforcements after losing Dorance Armstrong and Dante Fowler Jr. in free agency. Allen’s familiarity with Dan Quinn’s system (Quinn was Cowboys DC from 2021–2023) makes this a seamless fit.
Hurdle: The Cowboys have just $7.2 million in cap space, per OverTheCap.
2. Kansas City Chiefs
Why It Works: With Chris Jones aging and no longterm DT solution, the reigning champions could leverage Allen’s passrush prowess to maintain their dynasty.
Hurdle: Kansas City’s limited draft capital (only six 2025 picks) complicates negotiations.
3. Cleveland Browns
Why It Works: Cleveland’s defense ranked 1st in EPA/play in 2023 but lacks depth behind Dalvin Tomlinson. Allen’s versatility would bolster their playoff push.
Implications of a Trade
For Washington: Moving Allen could yield a Day 2 draft pick and $15 million in cap savings, accelerating their rebuild. However, losing a locker room leader risks destabilizing a young roster.
For Allen: A trade to a contender like Kansas City offers a shot at his first Super Bowl. NFL Network’s [Ian Rapoport](https://twitter.com/RapSheet) suggests, “Allen’s value is at its peak—this is his chance to control his legacy.”
What’s Next?
With training camp approaching, Allen’s market will hinge on teams’ willingness to absorb his contract. Insider buzz points to the Cowboys and Chiefs as frontrunners, but cap gymnastics will be key.