The Washington Commanders feel-good story suffered a double blow as defensive tackle Jonathan Allen suffered a likely season-ending torn left pectoral injury in Sunday’s 30-23 loss at the Baltimore Ravens.
NFL Network first reported the news.
Allen left the game in the third quarter with the injury appearing to occur on Derrick Henry’s second touchdown run. The two-time Pro Bowl selection grabbed at his left pectoral while on the ground. Allen was later ruled out in the fourth quarter.
The 17th selection in the 2017 NFL Draft became an immediate mainstay for Washington and the first of four linemen picked in consecutive first rounds. He has two sacks and 15 tackles in 2024 and 41 sacks for his career. Allen’s four-year, $72 million contract extension runs through 2025.
The Commanders lead the NFC East with a 4-2 record thanks largely to an effective offense fueled by rookie quarterback sensation Jayden Daniels. The defense has largely not kept pace despite the presence of Allen and fellow first-round DT from the University of Alabama, Daron Payne.
Washington’s run defense has labored this season. Opponents have rushed for at least 100 yards in all six games. With Henry and Lamar Jackson, Baltimore hammered Washington for 176 yards.
Second-round DT Johnny Newton would replace Allen and possibly beyond this season. Allen’s 2025 contract carries a $23 million salary cap hit and does not include any guaranteed money, meaning he could be released with a $6 million dead cap charge if the two sides are unable to renegotiate his deal.
(Photo: Ric Tapia / Getty Images)
