The Seahawks, who know how to secure quality pass rush help in free agency, have reportedly hosted one of the top edge rushers left on the open market.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Media, Vikings defensive end Jared Allen met with Seattle on Sunday. Also, Rapoport reports that Allen is expected to meet with “at least” one other club this week.
The 31-year-old Allen has recorded at least 11 sacks in 8-of-10 NFL seasons. He is PFT’s 18th-ranked free agent.
The Seahawks have no shortage of pass-rushing talent, with Cliff Avril, Michael Bennett and Bruce Irvin the primary pressure threats. Avril and Bennett were signed in free agency last offseason, and both came up big down the stretch as the Seahawks rolled to their first Super Bowl title in franchise history. Allen would add to the Seahawks’ defensive line riches, and he would help replace the production lost by the release of Chris Clemons, who has moved on to Jacksonville.
From a fit standpoint, Seattle would seem to make sense for Allen. However, it remains to be seen whether he can garner the sort of deal he wants in free agency. Rapoport indicated Sunday night that Allen could eventually elect to retire.