Jared Allen

Allen retired earlier in the day so this is the corresponding move made by the Panthers which will open up some cap space on their roster. Allen finished his career with 647 tackles, 136 sacks and six career interceptions.

Allen’s career stretched over 12 seasons and four different teams and was one of the best pass rushers of all-time. The defensive end retires ranked tied for ninth in league history with 136 sacks and will one day be named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. The highlight of Allen’s career occurred in 2011 with the Vikings when he finished with an eye-popping 22 sacks, good for second all-time.

Whether or not he retires, it appears that Jared Allen's days in Carolina are over. The Panthers appear ready to move on from Allen after trading for the 33-year-old defensive end in the beginning of the season. Allen is set to earn $8.5 million next season, and that is money better used to help retain star cornerback Josh Norman, who is set to become a free agent this offseason.

Allen did not play in either of the Panthers two playoff games as his broken foot was not yet healed but his full practice participation should indicate that Allen will be on the field Sunday against the Broncos in the Super Bowl. Allen played a limited role this season, totaling 32 tackle and two sacks.