Panthers defensive end Jared Allen is expecting to play in the Super Bowl.
Allen described himself as “100 percent ready to go,” at Super Bowl Opening Night, suggesting that the foot injury that kept him out of the NFC Championship Game is no longer a hindrance. He also said that he’s feeling amped up for the game and expecting to have an impact in pressuring Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning.
Panthers coach Ron Rivera wasn’t quite as certain that Allen can go, saying that Allen will have to show he can make it through a week of practice before a decision is made on Friday. But all indications are that Allen will be on the field.
Allen has been a starter for the Panthers since arriving in a Week Four trade with the Bears. Although he’s not quite the pass rushing threat he once was, recording just two sacks in 2015, he’s still an important pice of the defense, and a piece the Panthers expect to have in place on Sunday.