Jared Allen signs 1-day contract to retire a Viking

EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. (KMSP) - Jared Allen is officially hanging it up, and he’ll retire a Viking.

Allen announced his retirement on Twitter with a photo of him riding his horse into the sunset this February, but signed a one-day contract with the Vikings on Thursday and will officially enter his retirement on Friday.

The defensive end spent six seasons with the club and signed a 4-year deal with the Chicago Bears in 2014 but was traded to the Carolina Panthers last September.

“We are incredibly proud to have Jared retire as a member of the Vikings franchise,” said Vikings Owner/Chairman Zygi Wilf. “Jared was not only a phenomenal player on the field, but he was also a favorite among the fans and within the organization. He will always be a member of the Minnesota Vikings family.”

As a member of other teams, Allen remained involved with his charity in Minnesota, the Jared Allen's Homes for Wounded Warriors and has helped provide seven homes for U.S. Military veterans.

Allen was drafted 126 overall in the 4th Round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs. In 12 seasons, he started 181-of-187 games played, tallying 136 sacks -- ninth all-time in league history.