2017 NFL Mock Draft: Panthers steal impact defensive prospect
Defensive Line. Alabama. Jonathan Allen. 7. player. 56.
The Cincinnati Bengals have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL this season. Their defense is an absolute mess, and their offensive attack is not as explosive as in years past.
There are many prospects who they could consider, but the Bengals would want to make sure they get this rare top-10 selection right. Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen would make a ton of sense here.
Allen is a big and strong man who can physically man-handle opposing offensive lineman. However, he shows more than enough quickness and athleticism to rush the passer from the edge. Allen is not a speed rusher, but he is a not a slow player.
He shows the versatility to dominate both on the edge and as an interior rusher. Allen is a grown man who makes impact plays on a consistent basis. He stands out in a big way on an Alabama defense loaded with NFL talent. There is no reason to think that he will not continue to do the same at the next level.
Allen’s blend of power and quickness is truly elite. He is also a high-effort player who plays with perfect technique. Allen is the kind of player who coaches love, but he also has elite-level ability.
His versatility up front is something that NFL scouts and coaches will love, and makes him a particularly enticing fit for Cincinnati. I could see Allen pitching in at defensive end in some early down work, while flipping inside on obvious passing downs for the Bengals.
The Bengals love to add first-round prospects from major college programs, and it does not get more major than Alabama. Allen is a perfect fit here.