‘Things just didn’t work out’ … Former Commanders star breaks silence on release

Jonathan Allen opens up about his departure from Washington Commanders and his fresh start with the Minnesota Vikings.

Joanne Coley | Mar 29, 2025

Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen (93) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

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Since being released from the Washington Commanders, defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has opened up about his departure from the franchise and expressed gratitude for his new opportunity with the Minnesota Vikings.

“The NFL is a business,” the former Commanders said. “It’s very hard to play your entire career with one team.”

Allen, a first-round draft pick in 2017, spent his first eight seasons with Washington. He experienced the ups and downs of the franchise's rollercoaster ride, highlighted by their 12-5 record last season—the team’s best since 1991—and a trip to the NFC Championship. However, the new regime ultimately didn’t see Allen as part of their long-term vision.

Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen

“A new regime came in, they had a path they wanted to follow, and I wasn’t a part of that,” Allen said without resentment. “I gotta give them credit for doing me a favor by releasing me when they did.”

Allen is now looking ahead and energized for his fresh start with the Vikings and the chance to reunite with head coach Kevin O’Connell. “Things just didn’t work out for whatever reason, but I’m super excited—super, super excited—to be part of this new team,” he shared.

As Allen turns the page with the Washington Commanders, he’s ready to make an impact in Minnesota.

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.

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Published Mar 29, 2025

JOANNE COLEY

Joanne Coley, from Prince George’s County, MD, is a communications professional passionate about storytelling and sports. She holds a bachelor’s in Communications from Kent State University and a Master’s in Communications/Public Relations from Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2018, she has served as Communications Manager at the Council of the Great City Schools. A foodie and traveler, Joanne is also a former state champion in high school shotput and standout athlete in softball.