Jared Allen on Vikings Exit: “It Was Time to Move On”

Dec 29, 2013; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen (69) reacts against the Detroit Lions in the second quarter at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings win 14-13. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

Jared Allen‘s message came across loud-and-clear Monday: The Vikings are in his past, and he is 100% a Chicago Bear now.

In his first press conference since joining the Bears on a four-year deal worth less than what Everson Griffen got from the Vikings, Jared addressed his exit from Minnesota and the thought process that went into his choice of a new team.

“I don’t wish any ill-will against them, but I’m excited to be a Chicago Bear, I’m excited to play against them, I’m excited to still be in this division,” Allen said via the Star-Trib. “It was time to move on. They got a direction they’re going, and we’ve got a direction we’re going.”

“I wish them all the luck except to not have it against us. They’re another competitor now. They’re another team and that’s what it’s about.”

Despite reports that he intended to retire if he couldn’t get the money he was seeking, Jared insists he was never motivated by dollars, but just wanted to land somewhere with a chance to get a ring.

“It was never my intent but my point was that if I was going to throw my cleats and pads on for a team that had no chance,” Allen said. “They’re rebuilding at this point in your career and you’re laying it all out there because I still feel like I’m the best at what I do. If not the (best), one of.”

Allen said the Bears, “are closer than people think.”

He left out the part where his wife ordered him to sign with Chicago because that’s where she wants to live.

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