LB Josh Allen (Kentucky) Scouting Report

By: Alex Khvatov

Strengths

– Ideal size
– Long arms
– Terrific first step, quick off the edge
– Extremely athletic LB
– Very good speed
– Has bulked up and improved his strength as a senior
– Quick hands
– Comfortable in zone coverage
– Gets good depth on his drops and understands his assignments in zone coverage
– Demonstrates an above average rip move
– Has improved as a senior
– Will deliver a big hit
– Will chase plays from behind, good in pursuit
– Shows good effort
– Great upside

Weaknesses

– Needs to be more active with his hands, almost non-existent at times
– Has to do a better job finishing plays
– Relies too much on his quickness, needs to develop his pass rush repertoire moves
– Not asked to cover in man to man coverage
– Needs to read his keys and assignments better
– Plays too tall due to his size, needs to play with better leverage
– Missed tackles, needs to become a more reliable wrap up tackler
– Gets overpowered and can get sealed on the edge against the run

Overview

I am glad that Josh Allen returned to Kentucky as a senior because he has improved his overall game. He has gained strength and has added extra dimensions to his game. His size, athleticism and speed stand out on film. He was a former WR in high school who will test really well at the Scouting Combine. Hand usage and developing more pass rush moves are the two areas that he has to work on. Allen is an edge rusher who would fit best as a 3-4 OLB at the next level. His upside is enormous and he should be selected in the first round.