Terry Allen's journey in professional football began when he was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the ninth round of the 1990 NFL Draft. A running back from Clemson University, Allen quickly demonstrated his potential on the field. Although he spent his rookie year on injured reserve due to a knee injury, he returned in 1991 to make a strong debut. In his first active season, Allen rushed for over 1,000 yards, showcasing his ability to be a reliable offensive weapon for the Vikings.
Allen's tenure with the Vikings was marked by his impressive rushing performances. In 1992, he continued to excel, rushing for 1,201 yards and 13 touchdowns, which placed him among the league's top rushers. However, his career faced a setback in 1993 when he suffered another knee injury, forcing him to miss the entire season. Despite this challenge, Allen's determination to return to the field was evident.
In 1994, Allen signed with the Washington Redskins, where he revitalized his career. Over the next few seasons, he became a crucial part of the Redskins' offense. His best season came in 1996 when he rushed for 1,353 yards and 21 touchdowns, earning him a spot in the Pro Bowl. This performance was particularly remarkable as it set a franchise record for the most rushing touchdowns in a single season, a testament to his skill and perseverance.
Allen's career continued with the New England Patriots, where he played from 1999 to 2000. Although his time with the Patriots was not as prolific as his earlier years, he remained a valuable player, contributing both as a rusher and a mentor to younger teammates. In 2001, Allen joined the New Orleans Saints, where he played his final season in the NFL.
Throughout his career, Terry Allen was known for his ability to overcome injuries and maintain a high level of performance on the field.
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