The Washington Commanders are figuring out how their team will look this season during training camp, but one thing remains the same ... their foundation will be built on their defensive line.
Leading the way for the defensive line is "prime example" Jonathan Allen, who has been the backbone of Washington's defense since he was drafted in 2017.
Allen -- a Pro Bowler for the second time in as many years in 2022 -- was recently ranked as the No. 52 overall player in the NFL Top 100 list, a recognition of how valuable he is.
A first-round pick in 2017, Allen recorded 65 combined tackles, 17 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for a loss, 7.5 sacks and two forced fumbles. It's safe to say that Washington is getting a good return on the four-year, $72 million investment that they made in him in July of 2021, a pact that guaranteed him over $35 million.
Allen will return to a defensive line that also includes fellow defensive tackle Daron Payne and pass rushers Chase Young and Montez Sweat. Young -- the former No. 2 overall pick -- could give Washington the best defensive line in the NFL if he recaptures the form that made him the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2021.
Just imagine what the Commanders will be able to do if Sam Howell turns out to be the answer at quarterback...
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