Former Minnesota Vikings star Jared Allen took a shot at the New ... "You get to say this stuff when you retire," Allen cracked. "You can say whatever you want. It’s awesome!

That was Allen’s specialty, and he went on to record 85½ sacks with the Vikings. That production ultimately helped pave the way for him to be immortalized in Canton, Ohio, this summer.

Allen will be joined in the class by defensive end Jared Allen, tight end Antonio Gates ... available for consideration five years after they retire. After 20 years, they become seniors committee ...