The Washington Commanders announced that they are releasing veteran defensive lineman Jonathan Allen. For a Pittsburgh Steelers team that has a massive need along the defensive line, one has to think that adding Jonathan Allen would be a wise move.
It is no secret that the Steelers are all about fixing their defensive line this offseason. They have been all over the upcoming draft class, but even then a rookie will need some time to develop at the pro level. Even a top draft pick will need time to hit their stride.
Adding Allen fixes that problem instantly.
Allen instantly provides a capable starter. He can play nose tackle and allow Keeanu Benton to move to base end, or play that role despite being slightly undersized. He is a stout run defender and can rush the passer in a variety of ways. He would be a massive addition to this defense.
Pittsburgh Steelers need to add Jonathan Allen ASAP
Adding Allen gives this defensive line so much versatility. It also takes the immediate need off the table when it comes to the draft. Coming off a down year, Allen won’t cost the max that he normally would, even if he doesn’t come to Pittsburgh for cheap.
At only 30 years old, Allen should have a few years of great play left in him before he starts to regress. Injuries were a concern last year, but he has stayed mostly healthy for his career.
Outside of his injuries, he doesn’t have a lot of weaknesses in his game. While adding him next to an already elderly Cameron Heyward seems unwise, you aren’t going to find a better defensive lineman in free agency.
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While Allen isn’t a long-term solution, he instantly upgrades this room. And signing him doesn’t stop you from adding a defensive lineman in the draft. Heck, I would still keep a first-round defensive lineman on the table.
No, their role won’t be major, but they can still rotate 30 percent of the time assuming everyone stays healthy. This gives whoever the rookie is a chance to really learn as a rookie. And you never know when an injury could force said rookie into significant action.
Adding Allen and still adding a top rookie shows that this team is finally committed to rebuilding this defensive line. They have done that with the offensive line and need to do it with the defensive line now. Allen gives us so much flexibility and instantly upgrades this room. He would be a massive addition this year.