Jared Allen Will Retire a Viking

Jared Allen Will Retire a Viking
Image courtesy of Vikings.com

He’s back! For a day. The Vikings announced today that Jared Allen has signed a one-day contract with the team and will officially enter retirement as a Viking. Allen spent six years with the team and was named one of the 50 Greatest Vikings. 

Allen began his career in Kansas City, but spent his most productive seasons in Minnesota. He came to the Vikings via trade in exchange for a first round draft pick and two third rounders, plus a swap of sixth round picks with the Chiefs in 2008. Allen posted 83.5 sacks in purple, third most in team history. He was part of the NFC North champion teams 2008 and 2009, and in 2011 he notched 22 sacks, which ties for the second highest single season total in NFL history.

After leaving the Vikings in 2014, Allen spent time with the Bears and the Panthers before announcing his retirement in February.

In his 12-year career, Jared Allen had 136 total sacks, made five Pro Bowls, and four times was named a First-Team All-Pro. He ranks ninth on the all-time NFL sack list.

Allen’s rambunctious, candid demeanor combined with his nonstop motor on the field made him a fan favorite in Minnesota, and one of my personal favorite players of all time. It’s fitting he’s retiring in purple, given his connection to the Vikings and allegiance to the people of Minnesota is deeper than to any of his other stops. Happy retirement, Jared.

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