The Washington Redskins exercised the fifth-year option for defensive end Jonathan Allen, the team announced Monday.
A first-round pick in 2017, Allen has emerged as an important contributor for the Redskins. The 25-year-old was named captain last season and has appeared in 31 of 32 games over the last two years.
Allen fell to the Redskins on draft night when he slid to pick No. 17 due to concerns about a shoulder injury. The Alabama product, however, has largely stayed healthy in the NFL — aside from a foot injury that caused him to miss 11 games his rookie year.
Since then, Allen has become the voice for the Redskins’ defense and is part of a talented defensive front that includes first-rounders Montez Sweat, Chase Young, Daron Payne and Ryan Kerrigan. In three seasons, Allen has had 15 sacks, six of which came in 2019.
By picking up his option, the Redskins keep Allen under contract through the 2021 season.
Teams have until Sunday to pick up the fifth-year options for the 2017 draft class.
Allen carries a $3 million cap hit in 2020. His 2021 salary will be determined at a later date.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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