Georgia football star named as 2026 NFL draft steal

The Georgia Bulldogs had eight players selected during the 2026 NFL draft in Pittsburgh. Star Georgia linebacker CJ Allen was drafted in the second round by the Indianapolis Colts, as Allen will look to start throughout his rookie campaign in the NFL.

Allen was regarded as one of the top players on the board when Indianapolis selected him at No. 5. The talented linebacker was expected to be a first-round selection by many. Allen is listed as one of the biggest steals of the draft according to PFF.com after falling to the second round. The former Bulldog recorded 88 total tackles, 8 TFL and 3.5 sacks during his final season at Georgia and Allen could turn heads on the Colts’ defense in 2026.

"Allen is a physical, reliable middle linebacker with strong run-defense ability," Pro Football Focus said. "His length limitations are notable, but he flashes enough in coverage to project as a starter."

CJ Allen of the Georgia Bulldogs sacks Jackson Arnold of the Auburn Tigers

Allen played a pivotal role on the Dawgs’ defense across three seasons from 2023-2025. The star linebacker had flashed NFL potential early and often throughout his time in Athens, and the Colts were able to secure Allen towards the end of the second round. The former Georgia star will look to pick up where he left off in college during his rookie season in Indianapolis, as Allen was widely regarded as one of the top steals of the draft by many.

Georgia had an extremely eventful weekend in Pittsburgh at the NFL draft this year. Star DL Christen Miller was selected in the second round by the New Orleans Saints, while WR Zachariah Branch was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in addition to Allen landing with the Colts. The Panthers drafted OT Monroe Freeling in the first round.

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This article originally appeared on UGA Wire: Georgia football LB named as steal of 2026 NFL draft