Chicago Bears: 5 reasons why they will miss the playoffs in 2015
By Nick Ziegler
Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Jared Allen (69) rushes against the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 13-9. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
– Major change for Jared Allen
For the past 11 seasons, one of the most consistent and best defensive ends in football has been Jared Allen. Allen started his career with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2004, and wasted little time making an impact with nine sacks in his rookie season.
In his career, Allen has totaled 134 sacks, 32 forced fumbles, and 19 fumble recoveries. Last season was a bit of a disappointment for Allen, as he was unable to total the sack numbers we are accustomed to seeing. In 2014, Allen totaled just 5.5 sacks, which was a career-low.
Heading into his 12th season at the age of 33, Allen will now be moving to outside linebacker in the 3-4 defense. Allen will likely be blitzing most of the time from the linebacker position, as Fox will look to disguise him in different schemes.
The move to linebacker is not going to be an easy one for Allen, as he will be having to help in pass coverages at some points in the game. At 33-years-old, Allen will need to find a step that he may have lost last season if he wants to succeed in the 3-4 defense.
Next: Division is green