| A tight end who is a former standout basketball player, Allen is certain to draw comparisons to New Orleans Saints star Jimmy Graham, and he may have the talent to back up those comparisons. Allen chose to forgo his senior season and enter the draft following a breakthrough junior year in which he caught 50 passes for 598 yards and eight touchdowns, winning the Mackey Award as the nation's top tight end. He is widely considered to be the top prospect at his position and is likely to be selected in the first or second round. Allen was at his best against top-caliber competition in 2011, with six of his eight TDs coming versus ranked opponents. He reached the end zone in three straight wins over Top 25 teams from Sept. 17-Oct. 1, totaling 15 catches for 222 yards against Auburn, Florida State and Virginia Tech. Allen is also regarded as an above-average blocker. His speed (4.89 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the combine) isn't outstanding, but at his position it may not have to be. Allen tied for second among tight ends at the combine with 27 bench press reps and placed fifth in the 20-yard shuttle. He is also regarded as an intelligent player, making him close to the complete package for a team seeking a potential star at tight end. |
