The Minnesota Vikings have cut ties with a defensive lineman who could receive interest from the Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers.
The Vikings announced on Wednesday that they have released veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who was in the second year of his $51 million contract.
A two-time Pro Bowler, Allen did not live up to his contract after signing it last offseason. Making the decision easier, the Vikings needed cap space.
While his best days are likely behind him, Allen should still draw interest from teams in need of a defensive tackle who can rush the passer and has some inside/outside versatility.
We’d peg the Giants, Bears, 49ers and Lions as teams that fit the bill.
New York needs more bodies upfront to provide some support for Dexter Lawrence, and ideally an interior defender who can get after the quarterback.
The Bears could use more depth behind Grady Jarrett and Gervon Dexter.
In Detroit, the Lions might lose D.J. Reader to free agency, and another important interior lineman, Roy Lopez, has already departed for the Arizona Cardinals.
In San Francisco, the Niners have a need at defensive tackle and did have some interest in Allen before he signed with the Vikings last offseason.
Signing Allen wouldn’t exactly be an inspiring move for any of these teams, but with him coming at a very cheap price, it’s worth a swing.
