WASHINGTON — Jonathan Allen was too young to remember the exact details about his time living in a homeless shelter. There’s no forgetting the most painful experience of his life.



The 24-year-old defensive lineman for the Washington Redskins possesses the brawny physique and curious mind needed to tackle life’s problems. Earlier this century, he was a frightened 7-year-old in a crowded and unfamiliar setting who felt incredibly alone.



Allen, born in Alabama, and his brother, Richard Allen III, were initially raised by their mother after their parents divorced when Jonathan was 3. Their lives lacked stability, moving from one temporary living arrangement to another. At least they were together. And then, somehow, they weren’t.



“I’m not really sure what happened, but somehow I ended up in the homeless shelter,” Allen said.



Allen couldn’t pinpoint the shelter’s location but figured it was in South...