When Vikings defensive end Jared Allen struggled at the start of the season, he took the unthinkable step of hiring a personal defensive line coach.

Allen turned to Bob Karmelowicz, his defensive line coach in Kansas City during his first two seasons in the NFL. He began flying Karmelowicz to Minnesota on Tuesdays to watch film, study opponents and refine his pass-rush technique.

And since Karmelowicz began his private tutoring sessions, Allen has played like the Pro-Bowl player he is, ringing up 12.5 sacks, four forced fumbles and two safeties.

“Karm believed in me when I was an unknown fourth-rounder and helped turn me into a game-changing pass rusher,” Allen said. “Much of my success today is due to him. He’s the best out there, period.”

It’s also why Karmelowicz hopes to return to coaching a defensive line in the NFL next season. And when Karmelowicz interviews this offseason, Allen will be his biggest supporter.

“I trust Karm and believe in what he says,” Allen said. “He belongs in the league; he can make anyone better.”

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