The New England Patriots have a solid foundation for a powerful defensive line with tackle Christian Barmore, but acquiring Jonathan Allen through a trade could provide a “game-changing” counterpart in the interior, according to Justin Melo of the Draft Network. Melo highlights how Allen, a former first-round pick, is poised to be a valuable asset at a relatively low cost compared to his impact, given his contract situation with the Washington Commanders.
With the Commanders drafting Jer’Zhan Newton in the second round of the 2024 NFL draft, Allen becomes a plausible trade option. Melo suggests that the Patriots are an excellent fit for such a trade because they have the financial flexibility to both acquire Allen and extend his contract. Additionally, Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo’s defensive expertise and commitment to dominant play make the Patriots an attractive destination for Allen.
While the Patriots already boast quality defensive linemen, adding Allen would significantly enhance their lineup, potentially elevating them to the top tier in the league. Barmore, who recently secured a lucrative contract extension, stands out among the Patriots’ notable defensive linemen. Bringing in Allen would make it even more challenging for opponents to effectively block Barmore.
Jonathan Allen a Strong Fit for Patriots
Allen fits well with the Patriots’ approach along the line, which prioritizes versatility tailored to the opponent’s strategies. The team requires linemen who can handle double teams, plug running lanes, and collapse the pocket for pass rushes – qualities that Allen possesses. His pass-rushing strategy primarily relies on sheer power, evident in instances like overpowering blockers to reach the quarterback, as seen in a sack against the Arizona Cardinals last season, as highlighted by Brandon Thorn of Bleacher Report.
With remarkable core strength, Allen has notched 40 sacks since entering the league in 2017, along with being a formidable force against the run. His ability to disrupt rushing plays at their origin, exemplified by splitting blockers against the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, further illustrates his impact.
Acquiring Allen would allow the Patriots to maintain their flexible defensive approach, utilizing hybrid fronts that incorporate both three- and four-man lines. This flexibility would enable defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington and coach Mayo to alternate between one- and two-gap techniques, with Allen and Barmore playing pivotal roles.
Christian Barmore Needs Help
Barmore was compensated for his outstanding performance in the 2023 campaign, which included impressive statistics ranking him among the top-10 players in his position, as reported by Taylor Kyles of Patriots on CLNS, who cited data from Pro Football Focus.
While Barmore is emerging as a dominant player, he still requires support. The Patriots’ current roster includes players like Davon Godchaux and Armon Watts, who excel at stopping the run but lack the dynamic disruptive presence that someone like Allen brings. Given the substantial cap space of $49,305,135 that the Patriots possess, according to Spotrac.com, pursuing Allen would be a wise investment.
Despite being 29 years old, Allen retains the ability to influence games significantly, a skill that the Commanders may find valuable, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding rookie Newton’s recovery from foot surgery.
Although the Commanders already boast Daron Payne and Phidarian Mathis, they might consider entertaining offers for Allen if the right deal comes along.
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