The New York Jets chose Allen using their seventh round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.[3][4] Allen came to an agreement with the team on a four-year contract that included a $45,896 signing bonus.[5] Allen was waived on September 1, 2012.[6] He was re-signed to the team's practice squad a day later.[7] Allen was promoted to the active roster on October 12, 2012, after the team placed Darrelle Revis on injured reserve.[8] On November 6, 2012, he was waived after the team re-signed Jason Hill.[9] He was signed to the practice squad two days later after clearing waivers.[10] Allen was promoted to the active roster on December 6, 2012.[11]
Allen entered the 2013 preseason competing with newly signed Jaiquawn Jarrett for the starting free safety job.[12] Allen finished the 2013 season with 60 tackles, a sack, and an interception for a touchdown.
Allen was waived by the Jets on August 7, 2015, after suffering an Achilles tendon injury.[13] After clearing waivers, he was placed on injured reserve on August 10, 2015.[14]
Houston Texans
Allen signed with the Houston Texans on March 16, 2016.[15] On September 3, 2016, he was released by the Texans.[16]
New York Jets (second stint)
On September 6, 2016, Allen re-signed with the Jets.[17] He was waived/injured on December 10, 2016, and placed on injured reserve.[18]