Jonathan Allen makes it clear he wants to remain in Washington

When the Washington Football Team selected defensive lineman Jonathan Allen in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft, many called it the

When the Washington Football Team selected defensive lineman Jonathan Allen in the first round of the 2017 NFL draft, many called it the steal of the draft.

After a standout college career at the University of Alabama, Allen slipped in the draft due to some concerns over his shoulders. He became an immediate starter for Washington in 2017.

While Allen suffered a foot injury as a rookie and missed 11 games, he has only missed one game since. He has played in 52 career games — all starts — and will be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2021 season.

Allen, who is playing on the fifth-year option of his rookie contract in 2021, met with the media after day two of minicamp on Wednesday and made it clear he wants to remain in Washington.

I want to be here. This is my home, this is where I want to be. This is where my family is from. I went to high school in this area. I want to be here. I’ve always had the dream of only playing for one team my entire career, and I really want to do that.

Allen said his agent and the team have been engaged in negotiations, and both sides would like to get something done soon.

Reaching a new long-term agreement with Allen is important for head coach Ron Rivera. Not only is Allen an impactful player on defense, but he is also the ultimate leader who loves being in Washington. He is the ideal culture guy Rivera so often describes.

Allen’s best quote on Wednesday had nothing to do with his contract talks but his reaction to a question about the scheme.

Pay this man.