Washington Commanders defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has seen a lot in seven years with the franchise. So, when the team traded defensive ends Montez Sweat and Chase Young this week, it didn’t surprise Allen.
“It’s business, it’s football,” Allen said. “I mean, going into year seven, there are very few things that surprise me anymore in this league.”
When asked specifically about Young and Sweat, Allen reiterated that nothing surprises him while wishing his former teammates well.
“Again, there’s really very few things that surprise me in the NFL. I understand it’s a business. I wish them luck the rest of their career.”
Allen said he must step up his game, as some other guys are going to receive some opportunities.
“A bunch of new guys are going to get a lot of opportunities,” Allen said. “I’m going to have to step my game up, and it is what it is. We are prepared for this; the guys, Casey (Toohill), James (Smith-Williams) and Efe (Obada), they’re ready to play, so I’m excited.”
Allen said the trades do not make him question anything about new ownership, as he is paid to do his job, which is what he focuses on.
“They’ve been awesome……..on a day-to-day basis; I’m not interacting with the owners, I’m not really talking to them. I talk to them when they’re here or when they need something, but besides that, the guys in the building, the coaches, the players, that’s my day-to-day interactions.”
Jonathan Allen on Commanders trades: “It’s business. It’s football.” pic.twitter.com/wX5lSruocU
— JP Finlay (@JPFinlayNBCS) November 2, 2023
Spoken like a true leader.
Now, Allen and the Commanders must prepare for a road game against the New England Patriots this weekend.