It's hard not to love Jared Allen. The former Minnesota Vikings edge rusher was one of the most feared edge defenders in the league, and his charisma endeared him to NFL fans around the world, even if they didn't love the purple and gold.
The iconic hairstyle and amazing sense of humor made his accomplishments on the football field even easier for fans to celebrate. When Allen earned a spot in the Vikings Ring of Honor and the Pro Football Hall of Fame, it was a celebration for the league as a whole.
But it isn't just his personality and play that make Allen so likable. His commitment to off-the-field projects, especially those that help the community or those down on their luck, is massively endearing.
Former Minnesota Vikings DE Jared Allen continues to be great after his retirement from the NFL
The Wounded Warrior Project was formed in 2003 and is a nonprofit organization designed to help veterans who have sustained physical or mental injury and their loved ones. This is a cause close to the heart of Allen.
In 2009, the Vikings legend created his own charity called Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors as a way to help create housing for injured veterans in need of handicapped-accessible homes who would otherwise not have access to accommodating living quarters.
Recently, WFRV TV in Wisconsin shared an article focusing on a recent home that was built as part of Allen's program. The house went to Fon Du Lac's Josh Wege, a retired Lance Corporal who is excited to put down his roots in Wisconsin.
Here is what Allen had to say about the build and the program in general:
“Their home shouldn’t be a hindrance for them; they should have a home to thrive in. The stress can be released. And then in spring or at life, it’s at least just ceremonies this year. You see the family, you see your wife, to see the kids, it’s relieving that burden and being grateful for all they have done for us.”
Fans didn't need more reasons to love Allen. Whether it is his passion for hunting, his amazing hairstyle, competitive curling, or being No. 13 on the all-time sack leaders list, the former Minnesota defensive end continues to be great long after his final time putting on a football helmet.
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