The Georgia Bulldogs have turned themselves into a linebacker factory in the Kirby Smart era. That trend continued yet again as CJ Allen was selected by the Indianapolis Colts with the 53rd overall pick.
Though it is truly unexplainable as to why Allen fell to the second round, the situation Allen has been put in could not have been more perfect for the former All-American.
The Colts will learn to love CJ Allen just like Georgia did
The pros of Allen could not be more obvious. Allen stepped up when injuries plagued Georgia's defense when he was just a true freshman. As a freshman, he not only filled the shoes of linebackers that would eventually be first round selections, but he led the defense.
He became a leader on that defense and was a key piece to their success that season. As his career progressed, he received All-American honors and was a finalist for the Butkus Award. So, what are the cons?
In short, consistency and size is what scares scouts the most about Allen. In 2025, Allen had trouble staying on the field due to a knee injury which even sidelined him from being able to do athletic testing for the scouting combine.
For NFL teams it is hard to take a chance on any player not able to perform in the combine. Beyond that, Allen is undersized and lacks lateral quickness that a lot of linebackers tend to have in this current day NFL. With the ball flying around, teams typically now like to have a guy who can fly anywhere across the field.
Breaking Down Allen's Scheme Fit with the Colts
Despite the cons, Allen is a great pick by the Colts. In fact, it is one of the best fits possible for the organization.
The Colts need a leader to stabilize their defense. They found their leader last year on offense with Daniel Jones, and now this is their guy. From day one Allen was the guy, the leader, of that Georgia defense. From day one, I have no doubt he can do the same thing for Indianapolis.
Also, shout out Pat McAfee for a legendary pick announcement. Go Dawgs, McAfee. Go Dawgs.
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