With Jonathan Allen looking like he is getting closer to returning, one coaching staff member is very excited.
At Thursday’s weekly press conference, both coordinators met with the media. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. didn’t shy away from the prospect of Allen returning soon to the inside rotation of the Commanders defensive line.
“Oh, I’m excited. With the opportunity of getting him back, hopefully that happens.”
Some have insisted Allen was not having a good year before he was injured. In fact, they have said it was a bad year.
But how so? Allen was injured and lost during the sixth game, a loss to the Ravens. In those five full games and some of the Ravens game, Allen actually had produced 13 solo tackles, two sacks, two tackles for a loss, and six additional QB hits. Keep in mind that is from the inside. So, for five and one-half games, Allen was not having “a bad year.”
Whitt understands that if he does get back Allen at defensive tackle, he comprehends Allen will not be playing the majority of snaps. They need to see him in a more limited role his first time back in games.
“When he gets back in, I’m sure he’ll be on the pitch count, but I don’t know what that number will be. I’ll let the medical staff and AP [General Manager Adam Peters] and DQ [Head Coach Dan Quinn] lead that way.”
So, at this point, Whitt comprehends that a Jonathan Allen who only plays 25 (1/4) to 33 (1/3) percent of the defensive snaps is better than no Jonathan Allen at all. So, Whitt will be happy and thankful to get Allen back in the lineup for however much he can get him.
“He gives us just another veteran player, high pedigree player that can go in and give those quality snaps inside, that can get after the quarterback, push the pocket, be disruptive. So, we’re excited to get him back.”
If Allen does return soon, it will also mean him returning to the 53-man roster and someone else being released. Might that someone be Phidarian Mathis?
