INDIANAPOLIS - CJ Allen is making waves as he prepares for the next big step in his football journey. Despite opting to delay his NFL Combine drills until Georgia’s Pro Day, Allen’s readiness for the NFL is unquestionable.
“I’m going to push everything back to my Pro Day,” Allen shared during his podium interview at the NFL Combine. “That’s when I’ll be running, jumping, and doing drills, so nothing on Thursday.”
Allen’s performance on the field has already set the stage for him as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming draft in Pittsburgh. Over his three-year career with the Bulldogs, Allen started 41 games, capping last season with impressive stats: 88 tackles, 8 tackles-for-loss, and 3.5 sacks.
“I’d like to say I can do it all, that’s my job description, to hit people,” Allen confidently stated. Standing at 6-foot-1 and 235 pounds, he’s known for his ability to make a tangible impact on the field.
“When I hit you, you’re going to feel it. I’m able to generate knock-backs, especially going against offensive linemen.”
Playing middle linebacker in Kirby Smart’s defensive scheme at Georgia has been a transformative experience for Allen, following in the footsteps of NFL stars like Nakobe Dean, Quay Walker, and Roquan Smith.
“When you sign that (scholarship) paper, you know what you’re signing up for, especially as an inside linebacker,” Allen explained. “It’s a different kind of commitment with the style of defense we play.”
Allen’s leadership, preparation, and instinct have caught the attention of NFL scouts, solidifying his status as a top prospect. Nick Baumgardner, a senior NFL Draft analyst, praised Allen as the quintessential Georgia linebacker with hybrid versatility, highlighting him as a standout in what’s considered the best linebacker class in years.
Allen’s influence extends beyond his stats. He was a popular figure among teammates, often chosen as a game captain for his leadership.
“I think I have a superpower to make guys around me better on and off the field,” Allen said. “Me playing in the middle elevates guys around me, and same thing off the field.”
Allen credits Coach Smart for preparing him to be a starting middle linebacker from day one, emphasizing the rigorous practices that simulate game conditions.
“Our practices, Coach Smart and Coach (Glenn) Schumann put us in uncomfortable positions,” Allen noted, “so when we get to the games, it’s nothing.”
As Allen gears up for Georgia’s Pro Day, all eyes will be on his performance, with expectations that his measurables will confirm what his game tape already shows.
“I’m proud of how I came into the game, into college,” Allen reflected. “I came in with hunger and aggression and kept it throughout my whole career.”
With his blend of talent, leadership, and determination, CJ Allen is poised to make a significant impact at the next level.