Jonathan Allen Lands $60M Deal With Vikings In Blockbuster Move

The Minnesota Vikings are making waves in free agency, signing two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen to a three-year, $60 million contract. The deal, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, was confirmed by Allen’s agent, Blake Baratz of Team IFA.

This signing comes just days after Allen was released by the Washington Commanders. Washington had been trying to trade him but couldn’t find a taker, leaving them no choice but to let him go. He was entering the final year of his contract with a $15.5 million base salary and no guaranteed money. Now, Allen gets a fresh start in Minnesota, where he’ll be a key piece in the Vikings’ defensive puzzle.

Washington Moves On: The End of an Era for Allen

For eight years, Jonathan Allen was a rock in the middle of Washington’s defense. Drafted 17th overall in 2017 out of Alabama, he quickly became a leader and one of the most reliable defensive linemen in the league. Over his career with Washington, he racked up 42 sacks in 108 starts, showing both durability and consistency.

But football is a business, and Washington decided it was time to move in a different direction. With a new coaching staff taking over and the team in a rebuilding phase, Allen’s contract became an issue. Instead of keeping him on the books, they cut ties, allowing him to test free agency.

Minnesota wasted no time jumping on the opportunity, securing one of the best available defensive linemen before other teams could make a move.

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Bouncing Back from Injury: Allen’s Impressive Return

Allen’s journey to Minnesota wasn’t without its challenges. In 2024, he suffered a torn left pectoral muscle, an injury that initially looked like it would end his season. But during surgery, doctors discovered the tear wasn’t as severe as they thought, giving him a chance to return late in the year.

And return he did. Despite missing nine games, Allen played in the final two regular-season contests and all three of Washington’s postseason games. Even in limited action, he made his presence felt, finishing with three sacks, three tackles for loss, and seven quarterback hits.

The Vikings clearly believe that Allen has plenty left in the tank. If he can stay healthy, he could be a game-changer for their defense.

Source: Jonathan Allen, Vikings agree to 3-year, $60M deal, per agent

What Allen Brings to the Vikings Defense

Minnesota has been working hard to improve its defense, and Allen fits right into that plan. He’s known for his ability to collapse the pocket, disrupt plays in the backfield, and provide leadership on the field. His track record speaks for itself—he was a Pro Bowler in 2021 and 2022, recording 16.5 sacks over those two seasons.

Now, he joins a Vikings team looking to take the next step toward championship contention. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and stuff the run will be a huge asset, especially in a division featuring some strong offensive lines. With Allen in the mix, Minnesota’s defensive front just got a whole lot tougher.

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Jonathan Allen Lands $60M Deal with Vikings in Blockbuster Move

Vikings Big Picture: Building a Contender

This move signals Minnesota’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team. The NFC North is getting more competitive, with the Packers, Lions, and Bears all making big moves. The Vikings know they need to be aggressive if they want to stay in the playoff hunt.

Adding a proven veteran like Allen gives them an edge. He’s been through the grind of the NFL, played in big games, and knows what it takes to win. His leadership and experience will be invaluable as the Vikings continue shaping their defense.

A New Beginning for Allen

For Allen, this is a chance to start fresh. After spending his entire career in Washington, he now has an opportunity to make an impact with a new team and a new city. The three-year, $60 million deal is a testament to what the Vikings think he can bring to the table.

If he can stay healthy and perform at the level he’s known for, he could be exactly what Minnesota needs to take their defense to the next level. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Allen to see how he fits into the Vikings’ plans. One thing is for sure: Minnesota just got a whole lot stronger up front.