How Jonathan Allen Would Drastically Improve Detroit Lions' Defense

Could Detroit add a major piece to its defense?

The Detroit Lions' defense was exposed Sunday in a 38-6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Entering the game as the league's best run-stopping unit, a number of holes were brought to light within Aaron Glenn's group. 

All season, the Lions have made do without a plethora of depth. Levi Onwuzurike has been underwhelming in his return from injury, leaving the team without a true third option behind strong performances from Alim McNeill and Isaiah Buggs. 

With the trade deadline under a week away, the Lions could benefit from adding external help. Among the options potentially available is Jonathan Allen, a standout defender currently with the Washington Commanders. 

The veteran wasn't quiet about his frustrations following Washington's 14-7 loss to the New York Giants Sunday, leaving many to wonder whether he could be on the move if Washington elects to part with its top pieces. 

In seven games this season, Allen has amassed a Pro Football Focus overall defensive grade of 68.6. He's contributed in both areas of the defense, notching 21 tackles and 22 pressures. 

His tally of pressures would rank second on the Lions, behind only Aidan Hutchinson. He's proven to be a legitimate pass-rusher from the interior over his career, surpassing 45 pressures in each of the last three seasons. 

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This would add to a Lions pass rush that has struggled to find its footing early in the season. The unit is tied for 18th in the NFL in sacks with 15, and Hutchinson leads the team with 4.5. 

Allen has three, so he'd add integral support on the inside that would take some of the attention off Hutchinson. 

As for the run game, the Alabama product has been mediocre in that facet. He's earned a 54.3 run defense grade to this point in 2023, with six tackles for loss. Last season, he finished with 16 tackles for loss. 

There's also his contract to consider. Allen is in the second year of a four-year, $72 million extension. This means the Lions would take on two years of team control, should they acquire him. 

The pass-rusher is slated to make $14 million in base salary in 2024, as well as $15.5 million in base the following campaign. By trading for Allen, it would signal a significant financial commitment. 

Any move like this would require a solid amount of compensation. Though Brad Holmes values his draft picks, he's been aggressive in going after players he sees as a fit. 

The Lions have a chance to be special in 2023. By making a move of this caliber, they would bolster their defensive talent, while signaling to the rest of the league that they're all in on the pursuit of a championship.