Jonathan Allen contract details with Bengals and roster implications
The Bengals signed a solid player on defense, but the structure of Jonathan Allen’s deal brings about more questions.
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - DECEMBER 07: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders throws the ball as he's hit by Jonathan Allen #93 of the Minnesota Vikings in the first quarter during a 2025 NFL game at U. S. Bank Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
(Photo by David Berding/Getty Images) | Getty Images The Cincinnati Bengals made a solid move to bolster their defensive line by bringing in decorated veteran Jonathan Allen. He’ll undoubtedly provide a nice boost to the interior while also offering valuable leadership to the squad. Initial reports had the club signing the 31-year-old to a two-year deal worth up to $25 million.
Over the Cap has divulged further details about the deal, including the breakdown of cap hits, cash dispersal, and the outlook for both 2026 and 2027. Cincinnati alleviated the first-year cap hit ($9. 75 million) to some degree, but it balloons in the second year ($15.
2 million). This structure gives the Bengals flexibility to exit the second year of the contract should Allen not pan out after this season, as they would free up $11. 5 million in 2027 cap space with minimal dead cap.