Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen returned to practice on Wednesday, with the possibility of making a comeback this season, two months after undergoing surgery for a torn pectoral muscle.
The team activated a 21-day practice window for Allen, allowing him the opportunity to play, even though he was initially expected to miss the rest of the season. He suffered the injury during a game against Baltimore on October 13 and underwent surgery later that month.
“Whenever the game is taken away from you, it’s always humbling,” Allen shared after practice. “I’m just really excited to be back with the team and happy to be out here again.”
Allen, who will turn 30 in January, participated in individual drills during the open portion of practice. Wearing a black non-contact jersey, he was listed as a limited participant on the injury report, calling it a successful first day back.
Head coach Dan Quinn mentioned that Allen’s injury was less severe than initially feared, and the team soon realized a return was within reach after his surgery.
“We had an idea, but you never really know,” Allen said. “I just focused on working quietly and kept pushing until I had a real chance to return.”
Allen traveled to New York for a checkup and met all the necessary criteria to return to the field. After discussions between team officials and the surgeon, Allen received clearance to give it his best effort.
“He’s built differently, for sure,” Coach Quinn remarked. “It’s impressive how he’s handled the rehab. There’s a long process to follow in his return, making sure we don’t miss any steps along the way.”
The Commanders now have three weeks to either activate Allen or return him to injured reserve. While it seems unlikely he will play this Sunday against NFC East-leading Philadelphia, Allen could return for one of the final two games: December 29 against Atlanta or January 4 or 5 against Dallas.
“It’s all about getting out there and feeling comfortable,” Allen said. “I’m just working my tail off every day to help the team in any way I can.”
Before his injury, Allen had 15 tackles and two sacks in five and a half games. A first-round pick from Alabama in 2017, he was named to the Pro Bowl in 2021 and 2022, and is Washington’s second-longest tenured player, after punter Tress Way.
“It’s great having him out there for the D-line,” rookie defensive tackle Johnny Newton said. “He and (Daron) Payne are our leaders, so having him back brings a new level of energy and excitement to everyone.”
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