Minnesota Vikings' Asher Allen Retires From Football At Awfully Young Age

The Minnesota Vikings unveiled some shocking news at their OTA on Wednesday afternoon when head coach Leslie Frazier announced cornerback Asher Allen has decided to retire from football. The 24-year-old had started 21 games for the Vikings since being selected in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft.

It's a surprising move, of course, and one that Frazier told reporters that he didn't see coming.

"I'm surprised; I didn't see that coming," Frazier said. "But everybody has to make decisions that are best for them."

Allen told Frazier about his decision last Thursday in Frazier's Winter Park office. Frazier said Allen didn't mention health concerns as a reason for his decision. Allen has had concussions before, including one against the Saints last December. He missed the next game because of the injury.

It wouldn't be shocking if health concerns didn't play a part in Allen's decision considering what people are learning about CTE. Even if that isn't the case, though, Allen certainly has the right to do what is best for his family.

For more on the Minnesota Vikings during their organized team activities, head over to The Daily Norseman. More news and analysis on the NFL as the off-season continues can be found over at SB Nation's dedicated NFL hub.