CJ Allen Draft Grade | Round 2, Pick 21 | FanVerdicts

A+

Top 3%Pick Grade

Pick Context

Market Value

Steal

Position

LB · Value Position

Decision Grade reflects market consensus at the moment of the pick. Teams often have private information the consensus does not.

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #30 · 1st Round Talent

CJ Allen emerged as Georgia's defensive anchor over his three-year career, transforming from a rotational player to the SEC's most complete linebacker prospect. The former four-star recruit showcased elite instincts and versatility, excelling as both a traditional MIKE linebacker and modern hybrid defender capable of covering slot receivers. His combination of football IQ, athleticism, and leadership qualities has NFL scouts projecting him as an immediate three-down starter. Allen's ability to diagnose plays pre-snap and his rare coverage skills for a 240-pound frame make him one of the most NFL-ready prospects in this class, though questions about his pass-rush development and occasional over-aggression in run fits prevent him from reaching elite tier status.

Strengths

+Exceptional pre-snap recognition allows him to identify offensive formations and audible teammates into proper alignments before the snap, showing advanced football IQ beyond his years.

+Elite coverage ability for his size enables him to match up with slot receivers and tight ends in man coverage, displaying fluid hips and natural feel for route concepts.

+Instinctive run defender who consistently fills gaps correctly and shows excellent pursuit angles, rarely taking false steps or getting caught out of position.

+Natural leader who commanded respect from teammates and coaches, serving as the defensive signal-caller and displaying excellent communication skills on field.

+Impressive lateral mobility and change-of-direction skills allow him to mirror running backs on checkdowns and stick with crossing routes across the formation.

+Strong tackler who wraps up consistently and drives through contact, showing proper fundamentals and rarely allowing yards after contact in open field situations.

+Versatile skill set translates to multiple linebacker positions, equally effective as MIKE, WILL, or SAM depending on defensive package and down-and-distance.

+High motor player who pursues plays sideline-to-sideline with relentless effort, often making tackles well outside his assigned gap responsibility.

+Excellent ball skills for linebacker position, demonstrated by multiple interceptions and pass breakups, showing ability to locate and track football in air.

+Quick processing speed allows him to react to misdirection and play-action concepts without hesitation, maintaining proper leverage and gap integrity.

+Physical presence at point of attack who can shed blocks from fullbacks and tight ends, using good hand placement and leverage techniques.

NFL Comparison: Roquan Smith

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CJ Allen

Pick Context

Scouting Report

Strengths

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