NFL Trade Deadline 2013: Seattle Seahawks interested in Jared Allen, Minnesota Vikings talking to another team too

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) before the game against the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen is the biggest name on defense available at this year’s trade deadline, but he also comes with a hefty price tag. Probably not in terms of draft picks, but rather is actual cost financially as a rental player. Still, Allen is an attractive option for a contender looking to boost their pass rush, even if his price tag is unattractive, even for teams with cap space to burn. There have been teams inquiring on Allen’s status, and we now know one of those teams.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that the Seattle Seahawks have interested in Jared Allen, and they have been “making” an “11th-hour push” to acquire the veteran end. The Seahawks are already loaded at defensive end, so acquiring Jared Allen makes very little sense, to be honest with you. It’s almost as if the Seahawks have an embarrassment of riches at the defensive end position, and I would take offseason signings Michael Bennett and Cliff Avril over Allen any day. They are cheaper, younger, and more well-rounded players. Allen does a great job of getting sacks, but he’s no longer an elite player; he’s not even the best DE on the Vikings, if you ask me.

Schefter adds that another team is interested in Allen, and it will be interesting to see if the Vikings can find a team willing to take on Allen’s contract. I think Allen’s market value is anywhere between a third and a fifth-round pick, and I would honestly shy away from giving the Vikings anything more than a late fourth-round pick. Allen is still a good player, but he’s just too expensive.

On the bright side, Allen is also definitely willing to restructure his deal for a situation he likes, and joining the Seattle Seahawks is about as good as it gets. If he can significantly cut down his salary, then the Seahawks and Vikings might be able to get a blockbuster deal done. Then, it comes down to what gets shipped to Minnesota once the financials are figured out.

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