Vikings are paying $51 million to learn what the Commanders already knew

The Washington Commanders and Jonathan Allen went their separate ways this offseason. This always seemed inevitable, with the veteran defensive tackle's lack of production and motivation leaving general manager Adam Peters with no option other than to go in a different direction.

Allen was made available for trade, but no willing suitor came forward. The Commanders did right by the player, releasing him just before free agency to ensure he got a head start on finding his next destination. That arrived quickly, with the Minnesota Vikings striking with conviction to secure his services.

And the Vikings paid $51 million to find out what the Commanders were already aware of.

Commanders were right to move on from Jonathan Allen this offseason

The Alabama product is on the decline performance-wise. Age catches up to everyone in the end, and even though it's only one game, Allen didn't look like he was going to turn the tide on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears.

Minnesota managed to emerge from Soldier Field with a valuable division win after a stunning comeback in the second half. First-round quarterback J.J. McCarthy recovered from some early jitters to lead the charge, formally announcing himself on the NFL stage after missing his entire rookie campaign with a knee injury.

That was a major positive for the NFC North club. But for Allen, it's not a game that he'll remember with any great fondness.

The two-time Pro Bowler looked lethargic, losing his battle with interior offensive lineman Joe Thuney comfortably. He gained one solo tackle. How he didn't bring down quarterback Caleb Williams for a sack on one play remains a mystery. He looked a yard off the pace for the most part, and there is a huge amount of hard work ahead if he wants to repay the faith shown by the Vikings.