PFF lists Colts new LB CJ Allen as one of draft’s ‘biggest steals’

32. CJ Allen

Georgia · LB · Junior

Allen is a productive, intelligent playmaker. He plays bigger than his listed size (6-foot-1, 235 pounds). Against the run, he has good instincts/awareness. He can thud off offensive guards or play over the top of them. He flies around the field with outstanding effort. He’s an explosive striker on ball-carriers with a high batting average as a tackler. He has some tightness, which shows up in coverage, but he has enough speed to run with TEs and RBs. He’s instinctive as a zone dropper. Sources at Georgia rave about his character, leadership and communication skills. Allen should be a steady, reliable force very early in his pro career.

Allen projects as an immediate starter for the Colts defense, alongside recently signed veteran Akeem Davis-Gaither in the 2nd level of their defense at linebacker. He’s instinctive with speed, athleticism, and sideline-to-sideline playmaking ability, who can provide thump against the ground game and has been lauded for leadership.

If there’s one deficiency he’ll need to work on at the next level, it’s his pass coverage, but he’s better than advertised in that regard.

Here’s what else they’re saying on Allen right now as a top linebacker prospect right now: