Redskins coach Jay Gruden said Monday that rookie defensive lineman Jonathan Allen won’t return for Washington’s final two games, saying there isn’t enough time to get Allen into football shape.
Allen, the Redskins’ first-round pick out of Alabama, has been on injured reserve since suffering a Lisfranc sprain against the San Francisco 49ers. Allen underwent surgery, but was eligible to return for Week 15 against the Arizona Cardinals.
On Nov. 27, Allen started to work off to the side of practice, rehabbing with trainers. Allen said his foot felt pain-free and that he was very optimistic for a return.
But the Redskins want to make sure Allen was 100 percent healthy before bringing him back. The defensive lineman was allowed to practice last week in lead-up to the Los Angeles Chargers, but was held out.
Allen had just one sack as a rookie, though played a large role in revitalizing Washington’s run defense. Gruden also singled out Allen’s strength at the point of attack.
“Sack production didn’t rally tell the story about how productive he was,” Gruden said. “I think he played very well.”
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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