While it may seem like a safe pick, drafting Alabama defenders carries some risk. There are many questions as to whether or not the individual players seem better because they are better or just because everyone around them is really good. Jonathan Allen is the guy who makes everyone around him better. He is a wrecking ball and was the cornerstone of the Alabama defensive line. Here is my evaluation of the dominant defender:
Measurables: Height- 6'3''
Weight- 291 lbs
Year:
Senior (22)
2016 stat line:
69 tackles (33 solo), 16 TFL, 10.5 sacks, 2 PD
Pros: Jonathan Allen is a wrecking ball. He has great size that allows him to be strong yet quick. He has a quick first step, and once he makes contact with the offensive lineman, he can bull rush, use a swim move, or use a rip move. Against the run, Allen has the instincts to attack the correct gap and not give a big hole up. The biggest reason Allen is a top five lock though is because he has one of the most valuable skills in football: the power to rush the quarterback from the interior. The has good pass moves to get to the quarterback including the ones I listed earlier. If he cannot get to the quarterback, Allen can get his hands in the air and bat down passes. Allen can also play in a 3-4 and 4-3 scheme.
Cons: Allen has shoulder issues that may be an issue going forward. Hopefully it won't limit his long term outlook. Otherwise, Allen struggles to tackle quicker running backs sometimes. While he is a good tackler, quicker backs will use their agility to escape Allen.
Pro Comparison: Fletcher Cox, DL, Philadelphia Eagles
Fletcher Cox is the best player on an up and coming Eagles defense. He can play in a 3-4 and 4-3 scheme. He is dominant against the run and has the rare ability to provide an interior rush for a team. Allen can enter the league and be a cornerstone defender just like Cox.
3 teams that could use him: The 49ers seem committed to building around their front seven, and the combination of DeForest Buckner and Jonathan Allen is quite intriguing. The Jaguars could pair Allen with Malik Jackson to strengthen the defensive line of the young squad. The Bears are also building around their defense and adding Allen would strengthen a growing unit.
Conclusion: Jonathan Allen is a beast in the run game and can rush the passer. Those skills will get him drafted in the top ten despite injury concerns.
All stats from www.sports-reference.com
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