Commanders Waive Sixth-Round Rookie Running Back

Allen, 23, was selected with the 187th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. He spent the previous four years at Penn State, finishing as the program’s all-time leading rusher with 4,180 yards.

Despite facing plenty of competition in training camp, Allen made the Commanders’ initial 53-man roster alongside Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White. The rookie power back appeared in each of the team’s first four games, rushing for 41 yards on 12 carries.

Washington recently brought back Austin Ekeler, expanding the running back depth chart to four as White dealt with a shoulder injury. The 10-year veteran played five more snaps than Allen this past Sunday, rushing for 29 yards on four carries while also recording one catch for 11 yards.

Allen’s release presumably frees up a roster spot for fellow running back and core special teamer Jeremy McNichols, whose 21-day practice window opened Wednesday. He was one of three Commanders players designated to return from injured reserve and the physically unable to perform list this week, along with cornerback Trey Amos and defensive end Deatrich Wise. Until activated, they do not count toward the team’s 53-man roster.

It has been an injury-filled season for the Commanders (1-3) thus far, but they will look to get back on track at home against division rival New York (3-1) in Week 5. Starting quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to be a “full go” for Washington this Sunday after missing the past two games with a dislocated left elbow.