What Happened to Keenan Allen’s Shoulders? Chargers WR Goes Viral for Inflamed Joints

Keenan Allen has had a history of injuries throughout his NFL career. Some of the most talked about injuries include a torn ACL in 2016 (which ended his season), a lacerated kidney in 2015, several ankle sprains, and a broken collarbone in 2014. Apart from two major injuries, none of the other injuries has restricted him from remaining durable for the games. In 2013, Allen sprained the AC joint in his right shoulder, and then in 2023, he again sprained the AC joint of his left shoulder. These two notable injuries have earned him the title “alien shoulders.”

He sustained the 2013 shoulder injury while playing with the Los Angeles Chargers (formerly San Diego Chargers) as a rookie. He injured it when he dove to the ground to avoid a hit during a game. Remarkably, Allen never had surgery to repair this injury, and it healed on its own. But this left a bump on his right shoulder that appears to be shaped like a golf ball. The wide receiver sustained the other injury on a tackle in the fourth quarter against the Lions in 2023 when he landed on his shoulder. This time, he even said, “I’ll be out there again,” for the next game against the Packers.

According to former NFL team doctor David Chao, it is common for weightlifters to get spurs on the shoulders. “It’s on both sides that’s been long-standing in Keenan Allen’s shoulder. It’s more prominent for him than other players,” he added, hinting that it is common among athletes. “He could get it removed. He’s chosen not to. A simple off-season surgery will remove that look. He simply chooses not to do it. Why? Because he has no functional issues with it. It’s a big spur there. It looks funny, but it doesn’t affect his play at all.” 

Allen has returned to the Chargers after spending 2024 with the Chicago Bears. He has already left a mark through two games, where he has registered 12 catches of 129 yards and two touchdowns. The 33-year-old has a set of shoulder pads that are built in; however, he can still make a play. The bone spurs don’t seem to create any problems for him. And his viral video didn’t just show off his spurs, it showed off his passion.

Allen’s video goes viral

A video of Keenan Allen has been going viral all over the internet. The video has created a buzz all over social media, prominently displaying Allen’s “alien shoulders.” He seemed charged up after the Monday night football against the Las Vegas Raiders by a convincing victory of 20-9. “You know how we do Monday night. We jump through, we turn up, and we f— s— up, tell them weak a– Raiders fans to go home.” he said.

Keenan Allen led the offense to 20 points. He once again balled out against the Raiders. He caught five passes for 61 yards and a touchdown, including a 25-yard reception. Despite his age, Allen is producing at a high level. His route running and IQ allow him to create separation, and he continues to find himself open in the end zone.

Keenan Allen stands as the longest serving Charger, since he was drafted in 2013, going all the way back to San Diego. He and the Raiders share a funny history. Allen has been playing mostly successfully against the Raiders most of his career and enjoys playing with the fans both before, during, and after games. The Chargers will play the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football. All eyes will be on Allen to keep shining in week 3 as well.