Why Jared Allen Deserves to be in the NFL Hall of Fame

By Jason Bolton June 09, 2024 09:05

The legend of the game, Jared Allen, is a defensive halfback's nightmare as he has stamped his name all over the NFL with his exceptional record, his stamp on the game and significant contributions to the sport.

His eligibility for the Pro Football Hall of Fame has of course lent itself to much talk and debate among fans and experts.

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Charting the Jared Allen Success Story

Jared Allen started his NFL career after he was chosen by the Kansas City Chiefs in the 4th round of the 2004 NFL Draft.

He thrived early on in Kansas City, picking up 42.5 sacks from 2004. His phenomenal play got him into the Pro Bowl and All Pro First Team.

But it wasn't until after being part of a trade to the Minnesota Vikings in 2008 that Allen really began to shine, piling up his usual sack totals and forced fumbles.

As a member of the Vikings, Allen's was one directly felt through his 85.5 sacks and 16 forced fumbles.

His steady play and incredible dominance from the defensive end spot was a key factor in the Vikings' return to prominence, and saw the team rise to three playoff berths in his six years at the helm.

He was, foremost, a great pass rusher recording 136 sacks, which remains No. 12 all time.

Impact on the Game

Allen's presence does more than affect the numbers.

His inescapable skulking on the field revolutionized how opponents called their defense.

Allen, who was a game-wrecker with his disruptive and relentless style of play, and his knack for pressure opposing quarterbacks and making a mess of nearly every offense made him a force, one recognized at the highest level by the fans who cheered for him, the players who lined up alongside him, and those he battled against.

On top of that, Allen's leadership and positive influence in the locker room was a catalyst for the teams he played for building a winning culture.

His extraordinary work ethic and fighting spirit became an exemplar to other teammates and an imprint in ever team he played for.

Contributions to the Sport

In addition to being a force on the field, Jared Allen has made an impact on the game of football in what he gives back to the community.

Unfortunately, Allen fell victim to the pressures of life and was unable to live up to his full potential paying the road ahead for no matter how much philanthropy work he pursued.

This is the mark of a true sports icon and the manner in which he leads his life and cares about the welfare of others, it should be an inspiration to any young people that seek to follow in his footsteps.

Case for the Hall of Fame

Statistical Prowess

The impressive win totals for Jared Allen, according to his milestones and achievements in the game.

His 136 career sacks, with 85.5 of those coming with the Vikings, are a testament to a career that puts him among the most prolific pass rushers in NFL History.

Watching him is just as amazing as he is truly one of the best of all time at getting after the other team.

Pro Bowl Selections and All-Pro Honors

The linebacker was a seven time First Team All Pro selection, while the left defensive end has made five more appearances in the Pro Bowl.

Those credit stand as a proof of his influence in the game and actually belonged to their best players in the league back in the days.

Impact on Team Performance

His four-year tenure with the Minnesota Vikings coincided with the evolution of that franchise from a postseason after-thought to a legitimate Super Bowl contender, a transition that was aided in no small part by the impact Allen brought to the field.

Legacy and Influence

The impact of Jared Allen is still being felt throughout the NFL, as he has entered into the annals of the game.

The impact he made on every team he played, the fans that rooted for him, and the game as a whole embodies the traits of a Hall of Famer.

Jared Allen had an epic career filled with accomplishments, innovations, and historic plays that absolutely make him someone worthy of the honor of a Hall of Fame induction.

An all-time great in terms of his numbers, awards and their impact on the team, plus all of the charitable work, he should get in, but if I'm a voter this discussion that is opened here by RA's article would give me pause to think about all of the intangibles, too.

The more the debate continues, the more apparent it should be that Jared Allen's legacy goes deeper than numbers, perfectly encapsulating what an NFL legend is and why he has earned a place among the highest echelon of football players.