Jared Allen and the Minnesota Vikings have been trying to figure out their relationship since the start of last season. The two sides attempted to negotiate a contract extension in the 2013 offseason, but that discussion went nowhere. He then faced speculation all year regarding his future as well as trade rumors in November. However, it is 2014 and Allen is still with the team. Could he be back in a Vikings uniform come the fall.
The four-time All-Pro defensive end looks poised to hit the free agent maker and see how many teams are willing to offer an aging veteran with injury history a solid contract. While Allen looks ready to put on a different uniform, he is admitting that a return to Minnesota is not and has never been out of the question. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reports that Allen has a lot of respect for new coach Mike Zimmer and would be open to playing for him next season. Rapoport goes on to say that allen simply wants to test the market and see what he is worth since he has never been a true free agent, but the Vikings are still very active in keeping him around.
Allen certainly ranks high on the list of available free agents, especially on defense. The defensive end holds plenty of records for career sacks and when healthy he can still be a pass rushing threat. Allen might not be an every-down player anymore, but any team would love to have his enthusiasm and sack skills at the right price. Allen's agent said he and his client will look over cap numbers before making any kind of decision.
"He was a RFA (restricted free agent) tender, the high one, then he was tagged then traded," agent Ken Harris told Rapoport. "He's never been a free agent. He's definitely going to see what 32 teams have to say, not 31. I'll give him the cap numbers, moves teams have made (and) how close they are to contending so he knows it all."
So who could be interested in Allen? The Oakland Raiders could be the first option for the veteran. The team opted to not franchise several players and could lose some bodies to free agency. Lamar Houston was not tagged and considering he is one of the best defensive ends available, a return to Oakland is not likely. ESPN reports the Raiders could make a play on Allen.
The New England Patriots could be another option after they lose people to the open market. NFL.com reports the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks could also be in play. A return to Minnesota does not appear to be in the cards for Allen no matter what his agent says, but plenty of teams will benefit because of it.
