Defensive tackle is already seeing the upside of a change in scenery.
After eight seasons with the Washington Commanders—where he was originally taken in the first round of the 2017 NFL Draft—Allen was released this offseason. He drew interest from several teams in free agency before signing a three-year, $51 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings, who had a clear edge in one particular area.
Speaking on the April 3 episode of the “Green Light with Chris Long” podcast, Allen shared his initial impression of the Vikings’ facility after departing Washington.
“In college, they always say that once you make it to the NFL, the facilities aren’t as nice,” Allen told Long. “The spending on players in the pros doesn’t compare to the top college programs. But when I arrived here and saw kombucha, drinks in the fridge, and the quality of the facilities, I was blown away. It honestly made me feel like I’d missed out during the last eight years. The way these guys live—it’s amazing.”
The Vikings’ facilities didn’t go unnoticed by players last season either. The team ranked second overall in the 2025 NFL Players Association (NFLPA) report card, earning an A‑minus for food and dining and an A‑plus for their locker room.
By contrast, the Commanders—who have made progress since Josh Harris took over ownership from Dan Snyder—finished 11th. However, their locker room received a failing grade.
“The locker room needs to be updated with larger lockers and more room,” the NFLPA noted. “Additionally, 37 percent of players reported continued plumbing issues there.”
