One Minnesota Vikings veteran projected to give a 'boost' to defense in 2025
Although the Vikings tied for 4th in the NFL with 49 sacks, they lacked a formidable pass rush from their interior defensive linemen. They got only four sacks from that position group, forcing Brian Flores to draw up more blitzes that left holes in the zones downfield.
One player being counted on to improve the interior line is former Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen. The 30-year-old has 42 sacks in eight seasons but missed nine games in 2024 due to a torn pectoral muscle.
Now, being healthy and surrounded by playmakers on defense, Warren Ludford of The Daily Norseman believes Allen can thrive despite being in the later stages of his career.
There are a few reasons for optimism regarding Allen's performance this season with the Vikings. The first is that Allen will have a better supporting cast along the defensive line so offenses won't be able to focus on him as much and that may lead to his being in a better position to pressure the quarterback. The second reason is that Allen is going from a 4-3 to a 3-4 base front and I would not be surprised if Brian Flores employed a five-man front on a significant percentage of snaps. That makes it nearly impossible for Allen to be double-teamed and should help his production.
Allen isn't the only former Pro Bowler the Vikings added to the defensive line. Former 49ers lineman Javon Hargrave, 32, was also signed this season. Together, the Vikings are expecting immediate results that can put them in a position to make a deep playoff run.
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