Former Minnesota Vikings defensive Jared Allen signed with the Chicago Bears on Wednesday. The deal could earn Allen up to $32 million, ESPN reports.
Allen is now playing for a former rival. The longtime Viking agreed to a four-year deal with Chicago worth up to $32 million, including $15.5 million guaranteed.
After the news was announced, Allen released a statement thanking Vikings organization and fans.
"I'd like to take a moment to thank my former teammates, coaches and the staff at the Minnesota Vikings for all of their inspiring work and dedication," Allen said, according to ESPN. "Perhaps more importantly I would like to thank the fans and the Minnesota community. I can only hope that I have left with you all, with even a fraction of the positive support and impact you have had on my life, my foundation and my family.
"I am very excited about this next chapter in my career with the Chicago Bears and can't wait to see what the future holds for us. God bless."
Allen, 31, had been discussing a possible deal with Seattle. The Bears, though, "came in last minute and everything worked out," according to what a source texted ESPN's Ed Werder.
Chicago adds an end who ranks 12th in NFL history in career sacks with 128.5. Allen finished the 2013 season with 11.5 sacks and 52 combined tackles.
