The days of the New York Giants' defensive line constantly terrorizing opposing quarterbacks are far behind them, but that doesn't mean they can't get back to those glory days. New York is building something interesting along its defensive front, but it's not there yet.
Dexter Lawrence is a game-wrecker, and while the addition of Brian Burns last offseason was a good start, it wasn't enough. Big Blue needs impact players in the trenches, and as luck would have it, one just hit the open market.
In a not-so-shocking move, ESPN insider Adam Schefter has reported the Washington Commanders have released eight-year defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. The move comes after trade talks for the 30-year-old never formed. In a cap-saving move, they opted to release him outright, making him a free agent.
Commanders informed two-time Pro-Bowl defensive tackle Jonathan Allen today that he is being released, per sources. The team is allowing Allen to hit free agency early, and he now is expected to be one of the top DTs on the market. pic.twitter.com/9UYB83v8BH
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 7, 2025
The Giants should target Jonathan Allen in free agency
It's time to go for broke. It's time to put losing football in the rearview. It's time to make Allen a legitimate free-agent target. Allen isn't some rotational piece—he's a two-time Pro Bowler who's been respected by opposing offenses for eight years.
Allen was on the hook for $15.5 million on the final year of his contract, and by releasing him, the Commanders opened up $16.3 million in cap space. With figures like those, it was a no-brainer decision. They also drafted Allen's replacement last year in Jer'Zhan Newton with their 36th overall pick.
Looking at what Allen was supposed to make should give Schoen an idea of what a deal might look like for Allen. Would he be willing to take a little bit less for a longer-term deal? Regardless, if $15 million is the ballpark, Schoen should have no problem meeting that. The Giants are equipped with roughly $50 million in cap space and can clear more with contract restructures and roster cuts.
Allen won’t be short on suitors, but the Giants can make a strong pitch. He’s already spent his career tormenting New York from the other side of the NFC East rivalry—why not flip the script and help restore Big Blue’s defensive dominance?
Pairing him with Lawrence would be the kind of move that signals the Giants are done playing it safe. They’ve spent too long treading water, making half-measure signings that haven’t moved the needle. Allen is different. He’s a tone-setter, a leader, and the exact type of player who can transform a defense overnight.
Schoen has the cap space. The need is obvious. If the Giants want to be taken seriously again, they have to make this happen. No more waiting. Get Jonathan Allen to New York.