[NOTE FROM ADAM: I’m all about encouraging new, young writers to take that leap of faith and put their work out there for everyone to see. It can be an intimidating step to talk, as the internet isn’t always the nicest of places, but there is no better way to gain experience and to improve as a writer than to just do it. Please join me in welcoming the newest Vikings voice: Chris Serri. Chris recently started a Twitter account for Vikings fans to interact with (@MN_VikingsFans) and we got to talking about him potentially contributing to VT. Enjoy his first post!]
By Chris Serri
Earlier this morning, the public was informed that Jared Allen, the former fan-favorite defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings, was signed by the Chicaco Bears to a four-year deal, per the team’s official Twitter account. Prior to signing with the Bears, he had also visited with the Seahawks and the Cowboys. The overwhelming majority of Vikings fans, myself included, will dearly miss Jared Allen, as he was one of the faces of our franchise, and definitely was the personality of the team. Moreover, the fact that he is staying in the NFC North and playing for a rival of the Vikings will obviously sting. Two or three years ago, most fans could never have pictured Jared Allen going on to play for another team.
The question remains, however, whether or not we as fans should show anger or resentment towards Allen. This situation is somewhat similar to the Greg Jennings’ departure from the Packers a year ago. Jennings wanted more money than the Packers were willing to offer, so he signed with the Vikings, the only other team to show significant interest in him. The situation is not completely similar though, as it was already widely assumed by most fans that he would be gone this season. The fact of the matter is that Jared Allen was not getting younger, and because of this, he wanted to move on and finish his carrer playing for a “contender.” Whether or not the Bears are truly contenders is debatable, however, it is important to realize that the Vikings have a young talented pass rusher in Everson Griffen with tremendous athletic ability, and resigning him made the decision to part ways with Allen much easier. Had we not been able to resign Griffen, we may have made a greater push to retain Allen.
At the end of the day, it was simply time for both sides to move on. The Vikings went into the offseason wanting to get younger, and there was simply no reason to pay a hefty ammount of change to Allen while his talented backup is here waiting to get his chance to dominate. We had seen what Griffen is capable of throughout the past few years in limited action, and the Vikings knew that now, with Allen’s contract expiring, is as perfect a time as any for Griffen to step into a full-time role. There is no reason for fans to be angry with Allen. He gave our beloved Vikings several great years, especially in 2011, when he had 22 sacks. He did not end his Vikings career on bad terms with the team, as he simply wants to win a Super Bowl. Instead of being angry that he will be behind enemy lines, Vikings fans should rejoice and be glad that he gave us six tremendous years. He may not be with our team any longer, but Vikings fans will always have a place for Jared Allen in their hearts.
View Comments
There's no reason to be angry with Allen because the Vikings didn't want him. Spielman didn't make an offer. Now, let's proceed to kick Allen and his Bears where it counts.
well, ok then. let's kick 'em purple
I will still cheer for JA , all but 2 weeks of the season
Chris,
Will no problem cheering for him, enjoyed having him these past years.
Just not when he's playing us :)
he is a bear ... I will only cheer for him two times a year and that is when the bears are playing the cheeseheads. Just like "Walter" he will always be my hero, I just don't cheer for the bears
This is my approach.
Why would you want to cheer for him? He is a bear now.
Personally I hope he breaks Strahans record, but that his team only wins two games all year.
I understand you guys, but this article is more so about whether or not we should be angry with him as opposed to us cheering for him. Of course none of us will cheer for him and the Bears! Haha.. Although its hard to not enjoy watching Aaron Rodgers get laid out by him :)
It's the Bears. I hope he ends up like Chester Taylor. F the Bears. Why did he go there. I don't think you have to be all nice about it in the division..
Indeed! let's hope he gets to "Embrace the Suck" in Chicago.
"Change, shiz
I guess change is good for any of us
Shiz, I'm wit cha, I ain't mad at cha
Got nuttin but love for ya, do your thing boy"
Yes! Haha
A big NO! You can still cordially wish the best for the guy, but to cheer for him? No. He made his choice, now he has to live with it. His status with the Vikings doesn't resonate with me as much as other vets to leave. He seems like a 'me' guy.