The Washington Commanders could get a team talisman back into the fold for their crunch primetime showdown against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17.
There wasn’t much hope that defensive tackle Jonathan Allen would be available again this season after tearing his pectoral in Week 6 at the Baltimore Ravens. That wasn’t an opinion shared by the former first-round pick, who got some good news from doctors and worked exceptionally hard to give himself a fighting chance of featuring.
That could be this weekend barring any drastic setback.
After coming through another week of practice unscathed — his second since the Commanders opened his 21-day window — all signs point to Allen being officially activated onto the 53-man roster for Sunday Night Football. This is a timely boost considering Washington will cement its postseason spot with victory over the NFC South outfit.
Jonathan Allen is preparing to make his Commanders return in Week 17
Allen confirmed that he’s preparing to play when speaking to the media after Thursday’s practice. He also credited his teammates for putting together the sort of season that provided enough motivation to return ahead of time.
“To my knowledge, it is, but I don’t wanna speak for them. Obviously, we’ll see moving forward, I’m preparing as if I’m playing, so we’ll go from there. Whenever you’re not out there with the team, it’s always tough. But knowing all the guys in the locker room, it’s exciting for them and I knew there was going to be an opportunity for me to come back.”Jonathan Allen
If the Commanders had endured another indifferent season, Allen might not have had the same sense of urgency. However, that’s not the case and the Alabama product wants to do his part to help Washington finish the job.
This is an unusual situation for Allen and everyone else who was with the franchise before the new regime arrived. There weren’t many meaningful games in December during Ron Rivera’s tenure. This breath of fresh air and improved results continue to inspire players and the fanbase. An incredible comeback triumph over the Philadelphia Eagles only cemented this notion.
Allen wasn’t risked in Week 16, which was the right call to make. If the Commanders give him the green light this weekend with the national spotlight glaring, they must take their time.
He’s missed a lot of time. Working out and practicing is one thing, but genuine football shape is another matter entirely. Allen is experienced enough to know what he can handle, but any contribution he can make alongside Daron Payne and Johnny Newton on the defensive line interior would be a bonus.
This is a high-stakes situation for the Commanders. They are way ahead of schedule and no team will fancy seeing them in the playoffs given their momentum. Adding Allen into the mix is only going to help the team on the field and in the locker room.
Things should become clearer when the final injury report is confirmed. But don’t be surprised if Allen doesn’t carry a designation for the regular-season finale at Northwest Stadium.
