The 2025 season might be over for the 8-8 Minnesota Vikings, but there is still plenty to play for with some players needing big performances.
For some players, it's about ensuring they have job security going into the 2026 campaign. Others have financial reasons for wanting to go all out and collect their big checks at the end of the season.
NFL.com broke down the top contract incentives to track in Week 18. Vikings defensive tackle Jonathan Allen has a chance to collect a $250,000 bonus if he can get 1.5 sacks against the Green Bay Packers.
"Allen has seven career games with 1.5 or more sacks, but none this season. Packers quarterbacks have taken just 25 sacks on the year, which is tied for the sixth fewest in the NFL."
Minnesota Vikings defender Jonathan Allen is a long shot to get 1.5 sacks, but his sack bonus is still within reach.
In terms of pass rushing, Allen has been less effective than the Vikings hoped, but he is making a bigger impact in stopping the run. This season, Allen has 65 tackles, 15 quarterback pressures, 11 quarterback hits, seven tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and one fumble recovery in 16 starts.
It has been tough this season for Allen to get to the quarterback, as he just hasn't been as effective in that department. He's only had one sack in the last seven games, but did recently get one against the New York Giants in Week 16.
Allen and even other Vikings veteran defensive linemen, Javon Hargrave, have been overshadowed on the line by Jalen Redmond, who has become one of the team's best pass rushers. Hargrave and Allen both have 3.5 sacks, while Redmond has six on the season.
If anything, Allen should go for having a big game against the Packers, and not just because of the $250,000 bonus. He needs some momentum going into the 2026 season, as he has put up disappointing numbers on the stat line.
Minnesota will conduct extensive roster evaluations during and after the Packers game, as they need to determine who to keep and who to let go after missing the postseason. Allen might be on the Vikings' list to move on from, despite being under contract and just signing with the team in the offseason.
This is his last chance to prove to the Vikings that he can get the job done and play like the guy who dominated for the Washington Commanders just a few years ago.