The Washington Commanders released two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen on Friday. The team had granted him permission to seek a trade but decided to cut him when a trade partner didn’t materialize.
Allen was due a $15.5 million base salary in 2025. By releasing him, the Commanders saved $16.3 million in cap space, according to Over The Cap.
The Alabama product will look to rebound after a torn pectoral muscle derailed his season in 2024. Team officials initially expected the injury to keep him sidelined, but Allen returned for the playoff run.
In eight games last season, Allen recorded 19 tackles and three sacks.
The 30-year-old is expected to become one of the top players on the market when free agency opens next week.
He anchored Washington’s defensive front after the team drafted him in the first round in 2017. An Ashburn native, Allen stayed close to home to start his professional career. The Commanders’ practice facility is just a few miles from Stone Bridge High School, where he was named the Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year in 2012.
Allen leaves Washington with 42 career sacks, fifth most in franchise history.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.