Getting to know your new Chicago Bears: Jared Allen
Nov 7, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) rushes against the Washington Redskins in the third quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings win 34-27. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
After watching Jared Allen terrorize Bears’ quarterbacks twice a year for the past 6 years, it will be exciting to see what he can do now that he’s playing for the right team. A lot has been said about Allen having an off year last season, but if he can produce 11.5 sacks in an off year then sign me up. I do think the Bears overpaid a little bit for his services given that at 32 years old he’s likely on the downside of his career, but at an average of $8 million a year over 4 years it’s not like they broke the bank either. Let’s get down to the bio:
College Career: Allen played his college ball for the division 1-AA (now the FCS) Idaho State Bengals, where he started 33 of the 41 games he played in. In his career, he recorded 250 total tackles, 71 tackles for loss, 38.5 sacks and 13 forced fumbles. His 102 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 17.5 sacks and 6 forced fumbles as a senior in 2003 led to him winning the Buck Buchanan Award, which is given to the most outstanding defensive player in the FCS every year. Allen was taken in the 4th round (126th overall) by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2004 NFL Draft.
Pro Career: Allen spent 4 years with the Chiefs before being traded to the Minnesota Vikings in 2008 for a first round draft pick as well as 2 two third rounders. He’s been a dominant force throughout his career, totaling 555 tackles, 29 forced fumbles and 128.5 sacks (12th all-time). His 22 sacks just 2 seasons ago are tied for the second most by a defensive player since the stat began being recorded in 1982. Allen has been voted to 5 Pro Bowls (2007-2009, 2011 and 2012) and is a 4 time All-Pro selection (2007-2009 and 2011).
How much do you guys think he has left in the tank? Do you think he’ll help energize the Bears’ pass rush in the 2014 and beyond? Let me know in the comment section.