The Washington Commanders defense suffered a massive blow when two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen suffered a torn pectoral in the Week 6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. Allen was feared lost for the season, but as it turns out, he appears to be a fast healer.
ESPN first reported that during Allen's surgery, doctors discovered the muscle was only partially torn. After more appointments to address the possibility of returning this season, Allen believed it was possible. Sure enough, the Commanders officially opened the 21-day practice window for Allen to return on Wednesday.
Allen was selected by Washington with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft out of Alabama. He has served as Washington's longtime leader on the defensive side of the ball, and made the Pro Bowl in both 2021 and 2022. His 41 career sacks rank 12th all time in Washington franchise history. Rookie Johnny Newton replaced Allen in Washington's lineup following the pectoral injury.
The 9-5 Commanders currently own the final wild-card spot in the NFC behind the 10-4 Green Bay Packers. The 12-2 Philadelphia Eagles lead the Commanders in the NFC East, and the two rivals face off in Washington this Sunday. SportsLine data scientist Stephen Oh gives the Commanders an 86.8% chance of making the postseason, but Washington will surely receive a bump with the return of Allen.
