The Chicago Bears (0-3) have decided to trade once elite pass rusher, Jared Allen, to a team going in the opposite direction, the Carolina Panthers (3-0).
The news was first reported by Fox Sport's Jay Glazer. Allen was reportedly traded for a future draft pick.
Allen, 33, has totaled five tackles to go along with one interception in three games this season. Unfortunately, he hasn't totaled a single sack this season, and that is partly due to the change of position. The Bears have switched to a 3-4 defense and Allen doesn't fit as a standup outside linebacker.
If he plays like he has shown in the past this Panthers team should be a true NFC contender. The former All-Pro has compiled 134 sacks and six interceptions while playing for the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs.
The move makes sense for both sides involved as the Bears, who have started this year 0-3, will save money for future years as they try to rebuild. The Bears rebuild may last for a long time as they are winless and don't look to be going anywhere as quarterback Jay Cutler has been knocked out for an extended amount of time.
For the Panthers, the move changes them from potential NFC South champions to potential NFC champions. The Panthers have started this season 3-0 and have been searching for an elite pass rusher since defensive end Charles Johnson went down with a hamstring injury. Once Johnson is recovered, Allen and Johnson will be a massive force rushing the quarter back from both sides. It will give the Panthers yet another elite pass rusher in their franchise's history that include the likes of Julius Peppers and Greg Hardy.
The 12-year NFL veteran will have one more chance to play for a title contender. Allen has come close before but is yet to win a Super Bowl. If the Panthers continue to build off their early success, they could give Jared Allen the thing he has always desired, a Super Bowl championship.
