With two weeks left until the start of the NFL free agency, teams are looking to clear out some space to sign more players.
The Washington Commanders look to free up some space to contend for a Super Bowl. One player Washington is letting seek out a trade is a player the New England Patriots might be seriously interested in.
Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen could be on the move from Washington, the team confirmed. Allen would earn $22.3 million with Washington this upcoming season before he becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2026. Washington can save $16.5 million by trading Allen, excluding his $6 million signing bonus.
The Patriots should be a serious candidate for the former Alabama star defender. Allen is an explosive and aggressive defensive tackle who possesses a solid combination of speed, strength, and size.
In 109 games in eight seasons with Washington, Allen has accumulated 401 total tackles, 60 tackles for loss, 42 sacks, and 118 quarterback hits. He missed a portion of the 2024 season with a torn pectoral muscle but returned to the field later in the season.
Allen would be an instant starter for the Patriots under head coach Mike Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams’ defense. Allen would fill in the open three-technique defensive tackle spot with Daniel Ekuale set to be a free agent. The Patriots would utilize Allen’s versatility as a pass-rush and run-stopper, as well as his ability to play defensive tackle and strongside defensive end.
The Patriots have the most salary cap space in the league, so they wouldn’t have a problem with his contract and potentially a small extension. In terms of the asking price for the 30-year-old defender, the Commanders might look to the NFL Draft.
A realistic package might be a fifth-round pick for Allen. The Commanders would still lose $6 million if Allen becomes a post-June 1st cut, but they could get a pick out of the deal. The Commanders and Allen would also go out on good terms.
Allen would be a leader in the Patriots’ defensive line, along with nose tackle Christian Barmore, and the team gets a versatile, talented interior pass rusher.
