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2017 NFL Draft Comparisons: Prospect-Player Matches

By Jon Dove

Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (11) during the first quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) tackles Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Joshua Dobbs (11) during the first quarter at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) during the second quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Clemson Tigers quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) throws against Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) during the second quarter in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Prospect: Jonathan Allen, Alabama

Comparison: Malik Jackson, Jacksonville Jaguars

Malik Jackson entered the league as a bigger defensive end prospect. He played that role in the early part of his career until he added more bulk to his frame. However, his style of play has always been more about power than speed.

Jonathan Allen is a similar player who uses his power and strength to make an impact. He’s someone who is also looking at beginning his career at defensive end. At this point, Allen lacks the overall bulk to consistently excel playing a traditional defensive tackle role.

Related Story: 2017 NFL Mock Draft

Like Jackson, Allen will be expected to make an impact as both a run stuffer and pass rusher. He’ll likely be moved around the defensive line in order to create mismatches. Jackson is used in a similar way because of his versatile skill set.

One of the bigger differences is that Allen is expected to be a top-10 pick. He’ll be asked to make a more immediate impact than Jackson and overall be a more disruptive force. Allen will also be counted on to be a more productive pass rusher.

Jackson has had an excellent career, but it would be a stretch to say he has produced like a top-10 pick.

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