2026 NFL Prospect Profile: Georgia Linebacker CJ Allen

After a standout junior campaign that included First Team All-SEC honors and consensus All-America recognition, C.J. Allen officially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft, forgoing his final year of eligibility and launching his anticipated professional career. His combination of instincts, tackling consistency, and sideline-to-sideline range has made him a centerpiece of Georgia’s defense and a top target for NFL teams seeking an every-down linebacker. 

Allen’s journey to NFL prominence began as a highly-ranked recruit out of Lamar County High School in Barnesville, Georgia, where he starred on both sides of the ball before committing to the Bulldogs. As a freshman in 2023, he made an immediate impact, starting multiple games and recording 41 tackles while showing flashes of playmaking ability that hinted at his future potential. 

His role expanded in 2024, when Allen became a consistent force in the heart of Georgia’s defense. He finished that season with 76 tackles, three tackles for loss, and multiple pass breakups, showcasing a knack for finding the football and making plays in space. 

The 2025 season was Allen’s breakout year. He led the Bulldogs with 85 total tackles, added 8.0 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks and two forced fumbles, earning recognition as one of the nation’s top linebackers. His on-field leadership and production were key reasons Georgia remained a dominant defensive unit in the SEC, and his statistical jump made him one of the most talked-about prospects in the 2026 class. 

What makes Allen particularly appealing as an NFL prospect is his sideline-to-sideline speed, fluid athleticism, and advanced tackling technique. Scouts frequently praise his ability to diagnose plays quickly, trigger downhill through contact, and wrap up consistently, which has resulted in a very low missed-tackle rate relative to his peers. He pairs those physical tools with communicated defensive awareness, adjusting on stunts and blitzes with the savvy of a seasoned defender. 

Another facet of Allen’s game that stands out is his versatility in coverage and blitzing. While traditional inside linebackers are often limited to run fits, Allen has shown the ability to drop into zone and handle athletic backs and tight ends in space. His blitzing has also improved, flashing raw pass-rush ability from the second level that adds to his overall value. 

Off the field, Allen’s decision to declare for the draft reflects confidence in his readiness and a belief that NFL teams will value his leadership and scheme versatility. In Georgia’s linebacker corps, he has been viewed as a vocal leader and communicative presence, traits that often translate well to pro defenses. 

Strengths

Tackling and Instincts

Consistently wraps up and limits missed tackles; excellent downhill pursuit. 

Versatility

Capable in run fits, coverage, and blitzing from multiple alignments. 

Sideline-to-Sideline Range

Athletic ability to cover ground and make plays outside the box. 

Experience Against Elite Competition

SEC production strengthens his pro projection. 

Leadership

Vocal presence and defensive communicator. 

Weaknesses

Size and Length

At 6-1, 235 pounds, some evaluators want added mass for handling bigger interior runs at the NFL level. 

Coverage Nuance vs. Elite Tight Ends

Further refinement in man coverage technique may elevate his coverage grades. 

Pass Rush Technique

While effective, his arsenal of moves could grow to be consistently threatening as a blitzer. 

Ceiling vs. Prototype Athletes

Not the most explosive athlete in the class, which could temper some elite athletic comparisons. 

Conclusion

CJ Allen’s declaration for the 2026 NFL Draft caps a highly productive collegiate career marked by continuous growth, on-field leadership, and “best linebacker in the SEC”-level production. His blend of tackling prowess, versatility, and range creates an appealing profile for NFL teams seeking a modern off-ball linebacker capable of contributing immediately. 

Draft Nation currently views Allen as a Day 2 prospect (2nd Round likely). With his football intelligence and proven production against top competition, Allen has the tools to become a cornerstone defender at the next level.