2016 NFL Draft Big Board: December Update
By Jon Dove
Nov 14, 2015; Starkville, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) reacts after tackling Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Dak Prescott (15) during the game at Davis Wade Stadium. Alabama won 31-6. Mandatory Credit: Matt Bush-USA TODAY Sports
25. Jonathan Allen, DL, Alabama
Alabama’s Jonathan Allen doesn’t get as much attention as his teammates but he’s as equally important to the defense’s success. Allen is one of the more powerful players in the 2016 draft class. He’s dominant force at the line of scrimmage where consistently makes impact plays.
Allen is different from his teammate A’Shawn Robinson because he’s a more explosive player. He flashes the ability to generate pressure off the edge and shoot the gap. This makes him more of a pass-rush threat and disruptive force.
While he is a good athlete, Allen finds his success because of his strength and aggressive nature. He excels at generating a powerful jolt off the snap which gives him room to operate. His heavy hands allow him to quickly disengage and extend his arms.
Allen features the skills to be a dominant 5-technique in a two-gap 3-4 alignment. This would allow him to set the edge against the run, make plays away from his frame and provide a solid pass rush.
He would also fit in Dan Quinn’s defense with the Atlanta Falcons. His scheme looks for a power player to lineup on the edge and execute the same tasks as a 5-tehcnique. Allen would immediate upgrade the Falcons defensive line and give them a physical presence.