Alabama defensive end Jonathan Allen and linebacker Ryan Anderson were two of five junior on defense that decided to forgo the 2016 NFL Draft and return to Tuscaloosa for their senior years.
Both players made Athlon Sports’ preseason All-SEC teams for 2016 and have a chance to be first-round values going into next year’s draft. Daniel Jeremiah, an analyst for NFL Network, has studied the hands, feet and pass rush capabilities of both Allen and Anderson this week.
Win the hand battle, win the rep. Jonathan Allen rarely gives up his chest to blockers. https://t.co/SgCtVxvhNm
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) June 14, 2016
Last video. #93 Jonathan Allen https://t.co/qg8YJPcaed
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) June 14, 2016
Bama OLB Ryan Anderson https://t.co/TDDZ7WwxgI
— Daniel Jeremiah (@MoveTheSticks) June 14, 2016
Allen led the Crimson Tide in sacks (12) and tackles for loss (14.5), while Anderson put in 11.5 tackles for loss and six sacks in 2015. The two helped anchor a front seven that was first nationally against the run (75.7 ypg) and in scoring defense (15.1 ppg). Jeremiah has been impressed with Allen’s quick hands and Anderson’s overall speed on the edge in attacking plays.
Stephen M. Smith is a senior analyst and columnist for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
