Should the Los Angeles Chargers Pursue Jonathan Allen in Free Agency?

The Los Angeles Chargers will enter next week with over $90 million in cap space following the release of starting guard Mekhi Becton. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings are planning to release veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen in a cap-related move, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The Bolts have more than enough financial flexibility to pursue the two-time Pro Bowler (2021, 2022), and he would make an immediate impact along the interior of the defensive front.

Just one year into the three-year, $51 million deal he signed with Minnesota last offseason, the 31-year-old is set to join his third team in as many seasons. In 2025, Allen recorded 3.5 sacks, 34 total pressures, 34 stops, 12 stuffs and one forced fumble across 17 games. His 64.9 pass-rush grade ranked 51st among 134 qualified interior defensive linemen, while his overall grade of 53.2 ranked 86th, per Pro Football Focus.

Allen spent the first eight seasons of his career with the Washington Commanders, who selected him in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Over that span, he recorded 42 sacks, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an interception, establishing himself as one of the league’s most disruptive interior defenders.

While Allen’s production may no longer be at its peak, his impact remains significant. He was named a team captain for five consecutive seasons during his time with the Commanders, and his leadership and veteran presence could prove valuable in the Chargers’ locker room. 

From a schematic standpoint, Allen’s addition would pair well alongside Teair Tart on the interior. Tart has proven to be a sturdy run defender, with his 73.3 run-defense grade ranking ninth among 134 qualifying defensive tackles, per PFF. The combination could give the Chargers a more balanced interior presence, with one player commanding attention at the point of attack and the other creating interior pressure opportunities.

That said, Los Angeles must first address its priorities on the edge before making a significant financial commitment inside. Retaining Odafe Oweh and veteran Khalil Mack remains essential to maintaining stability in the team’s pass rush. Ensuring continuity on the outside should take precedence before allocating resources to a splash signing along the interior.

If the Chargers can secure their edge group, pursuing Allen becomes far more practical. His leadership and veteran presence would elevate the culture and accountability of the defensive front while making an immediate impact in new defensive coordinator Chris O'Leary’s defense.