The Dallas Cowboys need a center and could add one in the draft later this month, but there may still be options on the free agent market.
Bleacher Report suggests the team may be considering signing Los Angeles Rams center Brian Allen to a one-year contract worth $3 million.
November 26, 2023. Glendale, Arizona, USA.Los Angeles Rams center Brian Allen (55) vs. Arizona
Mark J. Revillas-USA TODAY Sports
“Brian Allen, the starting center for the Los Angeles Rams who are aiming for a Super Bowl appearance in 2021, has faded into obscurity in recent years,” Bleacher Report wrote. “In 2022, he played in just five games due to knee and thumb injuries. Last season, he played in five games and logged just 34 snaps after Coleman Shelton started at center. Still, Allen's resume screams as a returning candidate. The Dallas Cowboys may have a rookie in mind — Jackson Powers-Johnson is attractive at No. 24 overall. It looks like — adding a player like the Michigan State product would make it feel less like the position is won or lost, and deserves at least one more chance to anchor the offensive line.”
Allen, 28, would certainly be a risk for the Cowboys, but he's a player that could potentially pay off. He has playoff experience, something a rookie doesn't have. Plus, he might be cheaper than a first-round pick. It would also allow the Cowboys to go in a different direction to start their draft class and select someone who can sit behind Allen this year before stepping into the spotlight.
Needless to say, the Cowboys' interior offensive line will soon look different, and Allen may be the one to lead that change.
