NFL

2017 NFL Mock Draft: Projecting What Could Happen in the First Round

Joe Redemann  —  @TheIDPGuy Mar 3rd, 2017
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3. Bears: Jonathan Allen, Defensive Lineman

Top Needs: QB, DE, OLB, CB

Considering how lowly the Chicago Bears defense was in 2016, ranking 32nd in Adjusted Defensive Rushing NEP per play and 19th in Adjusted Defensive Passing NEP per play, they need a defensive presence added. Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen should be their pick here.

Allen is about 6’3” and 300 pounds, but will likely run a 4.76 40-yard dash; he’s freaky athletic for his size. His best traits are strong hand fighting and the ability to test opposing linemen and beat them in different ways. He blends strength and speed in his profile, and while his size isn’t ideal for a 3-4 defensive end, he will find ways to succeed.

Over the last two years, Allen has accrued 94 tackles, 26 stuffs, and 20.5 sacks. Whew. That’s 67 quarterback pressures this year alone. Some are concerned Allen benefited from playing next to pro-caliber talent, but he’s a legitimate force on his own.

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