Carolina Panthers defensive end Jared Allen reportedly suffered a foot injury that could require season-ending surgery, according to Jonathan Jones of the Charlotte Observer. Allen will undergo an X-ray on Monday to determine the severity of the injury. Ian Rapoport reported more optimistic news, citing a source who said that Allen played through a small broken bone in his foot Sunday and plans on playing out the postseason.
Panthers DE Jared Allen may be done for the season due to foot injury, according to reports
One of the NFL’s best, most veteran pass rushers may be done.
John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Allen has had a prolific career, racking up 136 sacks across 12 seasons. The last two seasons have been quiet for the pass rusher, however. He had 5.5 sacks in 15 games for the Chicago Bears in 2014 and just two sacks this season in 15 regular season games split between Chicago and Carolina. Allen was traded to the Panthers early in the season for a sixth-round pick.
Allen is set to make $8.5 million next season, according to Spotrac, which makes his future murky. The Panthers aren’t likely to pay the 33-year-old that much money, especially considering his declining production. They could renegotiate to keep his leadership qualities in the locker room, however, or let him go to find a new home elsewhere.
His future can wait for now. The Panthers are headed to the NFC Championship next to face the Arizona Cardinals and potentially go to the Super Bowl.
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