CJ Allen — 2026 NFL Mock Draft Roundup 2.0

There was a lot to consider at this pick, including a possible trade back with the Philadelphia Eagles at 23 that fell through after the Panthers' pick. Dallas' options were then one of the best remaining pass rushers (Keldric Faulk, Cashius Howell, T.J. Parker or Zion Young), a top safety (Dillon Thieneman or Emmanuel McNeil-Warren) or a top off-ball linebacker. The Cowboys' linebacker play was probably the worst in the league last year. Allen would instantly upgrade the group as their starting middle linebacker, potentially forming a great duo if DeMarvion Overshown can stay healthy.

It's been a few years since the last one, but CJ Allen is the latest in the long line of Georgia LBs who are smart, can fly sideline to sideline and hit the crap out of you when they find you. He'd be an immediate help to Buffalo's run defense.

Denver finds a replacement for Alex Singleton, who is ticketed for free agency. Allen is a steady, reliable player who can handle the nerve center of that talented defense.

General manager Jason Licht has no qualms with taking a player who is not at a position of need, so anything is in play here. This is the year the Bucs finally draft the replacement for the unsinkable Lavonte David. Allen has been a steadying force for Georgia's defense ever since he stepped on the field as a freshman. He has intangibles and a well-rounded game that would fit in Todd Bowles' defense. And really any defense, to be fair.

As we get later into the first round, teams will seemingly prioritize need. For the Broncos, that's linebacker. Allen is another experienced guy, starting 29 games. He's also a talented player, earning an All-American nod and being named a finalist for the Butkus Award this past season. What we know about Georgia defensive players is that they're going to be ready to succeed in the NFL.