Despite signs of improvement in wins over Arizona and Cleveland, Washington’s defense still ranks in the bottom third of the NFL in yards allowed per game (22nd) and rushing yards allowed per game (22nd), while performing slightly better against the pass (19th). ). Sunday was certainly not an encouraging example, as the Commanders gave the Ravens 484 total yards of offense, including 176 on the ground, thanks in part to Derrick Henry’s 132 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries.

Allen has had a tough time over the last year or so, posting the worst defensive grades of his career in 2023 (59.7) and in six games in 2024 (53.5), according to Pro Football Focus. Still, losing a first-round talent that’s the team’s third-highest player at $21.6 million is disheartening, especially for a Washington team that has postseason aspirations for the first time in years, with a big one Part of the credit goes to the rookie signal. exclaims sensation Jayden Daniels.

The Commanders must find a way to replace Allen, who along with Daron Payne form one half of a valuable interior pairing. They’ll likely lean on players like Newton and Phidarian Mathis in the short term, and they’ll be expected to provide reinforcements on the interior if they’re forced to place Allen on injured reserve.