TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– Alabama defensive end Jonathan Allen was announced as a finalist for both Walter Camp Player of the Year and Lott IMPACT Trophy on Wednesday, according to both organizations.
He’s one of five finalists for Walter Camp and one of four finalists for the Lott.
Allen, a senior, is in the midst of a remarkable year. He leads the Crimson Tide in quarterback hurries (13), fumble recoveries (two) and defensive touchdowns (two), while totaling 52 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss and seven sacks. The 6-foot-3, 291-pounder is credited with 25 career sacks, tying him for second all-time in school history with former Tide standout Kindal Moorehead. Forgoing the 2016 NFL Draft turned out to be a blessing in disguise for both Allen and Alabama. Under the leadership of Jeremy Pruitt, Allen captains the nation’s top-ranked run defense (68.7 ypg), scoring defense (11.4 ppg) and total defense (247 ypg).
The Tide leads college football in defensive efficiency (98.2), while it’s sixth in sacks with 40.
Joining Allen as finalists for Walter Camp are quarterbacks Deshaun Watson (Clemson), Lamar Jackson (Louisville) and Jake Browning (Washington), along with linebacker/return man Jabrill Peppers (Michigan).
As for the Lott Trophy, the Leesburg, Va., native is joined by USC’s Adoree’ Jackson, Peppers and Air Force’s Weston Steelhammer. DeMeco Ryans was the last Tide player to take home the Lott Trophy, earning the honor in 2005. The winner of the 2016 Walter Camp Player of the Year award will be announced on Thursday, Dec. 8, while the Lott Trophy winner shall be announced on Sunday, Dec. 11.
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.
