Jared Allen Calls Out Hall of Fame Process After Fifth Straight Finalist Snub
Minnesota Vikings legend Jared Allen has once again found himself a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame—a distinction he’s held for the fifth consecutive year. But while many players dream of simply being considered, Allen is losing patience with the process, claiming the honor has begun to lose its appeal.
Appearing on the Up & Adams show, Allen spoke candidly with Kay Adams about his frustration. While the first-time recognition in 2020 felt special, repeated snubs have left the former Vikings defensive end disenchanted.
“The first time was cool. First time was like, ‘Oh, wow.’ I’ve never been nothing but a finalist, so I don’t really know what those other feelings are like. First time was cool. Second time, you’re expecting to get back there. I thought I was getting my second time, and every time after that, I’ve just been like, ‘This is stupid.’”
A Legacy Built on Dominance
Allen’s Hall of Fame credentials are undeniable. Drafted in the fourth round out of Idaho State in the 2004 NFL Draft, Allen carved out a legendary 12-year career in the league. His staggering 136 career sacks—including 85.5 in six seasons with Minnesota—place him among the greatest pass-rushers in NFL history.
Allen ranks 13th in career sacks since the stat became official in 1982, and 16th overall in Pro Football Reference’s database, which dates back to 1960. Notably, every player ahead of him is either already in the Hall of Fame or is also a finalist, such as Terrell Suggs.
During his career, Allen’s production eclipsed many of his peers. His 136 sacks place him ahead of Hall of Famers like Julius Peppers, while trailing only DeMarcus Ware (138.5) among contemporaries. Allen didn’t hesitate to back up his dominance:
“I think you look at everybody I’m surrounded by, nobody did it better than me when I was playing. That’s facts. Nobody had more sacks than me in the 12 years that I played, and some guys have multiple, multiple years on me.
So, if I’m not good enough on my resume, then tell me that. Don’t let me in. Kick me off the list.”
Done with the Politics
Allen’s frustrations extend beyond the repeated snubs. When Adams suggested that he might need to “play the game” or lobby for his spot in the Hall, Allen made it clear that politicking wasn’t on his agenda.
“I control what I can control in life, and that’s not something I can control. I did my work, and I moved forward that way. So, yeah. I don’t know what the deal is. I don’t know how the game is played. I don’t really care to know. I’ve got my personal feelings, and it is what it is.”
As the NFL prepares to announce the 2024 Hall of Fame class during the NFL Honors on February 6 in New Orleans, Allen remains at peace with the outcome, whether he’s inducted or not.
Will This Finally Be Jared Allen’s Year?
While Allen’s career achievements speak for themselves, his frustration underscores a larger debate about the Hall of Fame selection process. Whether or not the voters agree, Allen has already cemented his legacy as one of the most dominant defensive players of his era. For now, the wait continues.
