Guest MMQB: Redskins GM Allen on lessons from NFL owners, more

Peter King is on vacation, so he's recruited some help filling in on Monday Morning Quarterback. This week, Washington Redskins GM Bruce Allen takes the reins.

Let me begin my writing career wishing the United States of America a belated Happy Independence Day. All Americans and hundreds of millions of people across the world should be grateful to the men and women of our Armed Services, whose personal sacrifices have secured our freedoms. Their heroic efforts are the reason that we are able to enjoy our "inalienable rights," including "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," as stated in Thomas Jefferson's Declaration of Independence, which was approved on July 4, 1776.

Last week as part of our family's July 4th celebration, my wife Kiersten and I went to a party with former and current Raiders to celebrate the great Al Davis' birthday, who fittingly was born on Independence Day. Beside sharing some great memories with the unique Raiders fraternity, it reminded me what a special and unique pioneer Al was. In my opinion, Al Davis was the ultimate competitor who cared deeply about the game of football and the people that surrounded the Raiders.

Read more: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2012/writers/peter_king/07/08/guest-mmqb-bruce-allen/index.html#ixzz20A8r3tVE