Keenan Allen's Options: Potential Landing Spots for the Veteran Receiver

Keenan Allen's career has reached a crossroads. Once a premier name in NFL free agency, the 33-year-old Pro Bowl wideout remains unsigned after the draft—a stark reminder of how quickly the league's priorities shift toward youth and speed. After a productive stint with the Chicago Bears (70 receptions, 744 yards, 7 TDs in 2023), Allen now faces an uncertain future. While his numbers dipped from his Chargers heyday (1,243 yards in 2022), his reliability and football IQ make him a valuable asset for teams seeking veteran leadership or a proven pass-catcher. Let's explore potential landing spots where Allen could thrive in 2024.  

1. Los Angeles Chargers: A Familiar Reunion

The Chargers' receiver room still feels Allen's absence. Despite reuniting with Mike Williams and drafting rookies Ladd McConkey and Brenden Rice, L.A. lacks a true chain-mover like Allen. With Justin Herbert entering a critical season, adding Allen's route-running mastery could stabilize an unproven group. While cap space is tight, a team-friendly deal might reignite a partnership that once dominated AFC West defenses.  

2. Dallas Cowboys: Dak Prescott's Missing Weapon

Dallas' receiving corps behind CeeDee Lamb is alarmingly thin. Allen may not solve the Cowboys' need for speed, but his ability to create separation and thrive in contested catches would give Prescott a reliable safety net. With no major post-draft additions, Jerry Jones could pivot to Allen as a low-risk, high-reward signing to keep playoff hopes alive.  

3. New Orleans Saints: Mentoring a Shaky Offense

The Saints' offense hinges on injury-prone stars (Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed) and an aging Derek Carr. Allen's veteran presence could steady a group plagued by inconsistency, especially if rookie QB Tyler Shough sees early action. New Orleans isn't a title contender, but Allen could carve out a role as a possession receiver while mentoring younger talent.  

4. Las Vegas Raiders: Bolstering a Rebuilding Corps

Las Vegas loaded up on rookie receivers (Brock Bowers, Dylan Laube, Tulu Griffin) but lacks a proven WR2 behind Jakobi Meyers. Allen's savvy could bridge the gap as the Raiders develop their draft picks. Facing the Chargers twice annually adds intrigue—what better way to motivate than facing his former division rival?  

5. Kansas City Chiefs: Chasing a Ring with Mahomes

Never count out the Chiefs. With Rashee Rice's suspension looming and Marquise "Hollywood" Brown's injury history, Kansas City might seek insurance for Patrick Mahomes. Allen's precise routes and red-zone prowess could thrive in Andy Reid's system, mirroring the late-career success of JuJu Smith-Schuster. For Allen, joining the two-time defending champs offers a shot at the Lombardi Trophy that's eluded him.  

The Bottom Line

Keenan Allen's days as a $20M-per-year star are over, but his football IQ and hands ensure he's not done yet. Whether chasing a ring, mentoring rookies, or reigniting an old flame, the six-time 1,000-yard receiver still has value in a league increasingly obsessed with youth. As teams finalize rosters before training camp, expect Allen's phone to ring—it only takes one contender to see his potential.