PFF lists Colts new LB CJ Allen as one of draft’s ‘biggest steals’
The Colts seemingly obtained great value with the 53rd pick.
STARKVILLE, MS - NOVEMBER 08: Georgia Bulldogs linebacker CJ Allen (3) looks into the offensive backfield during the college football game between the Georgia Bulldogs and Mississippi State Bulldogs on November 8, 2025, at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi. (Photo by Andy Altenburger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images According to PFF, Indianapolis Colts new linebacker, CJ Allen, who was the 53rd overall pick of the 2026 NFL Draft on Friday night, is one of the biggest steals in this year’s class : LB CJ Allen, Georgia Bulldogs PFF Big Board Rank: 18 Actual Pick: 53 2025 PFF Grade: 75. 8 Allen is a physical, reliable middle linebacker with strong run-defense ability.
His length limitations are notable, but he flashes enough in coverage to project as a starter. The 6,’0 3/4”, 230 pound junior linebacker out of Georgia recorded 88 tackles (47 solo), 8 tackles for loss, 3. 5 sacks, 4 passes defensed, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery during 13 starts this past season.
Allen earned consensus All-American and First-Team All-SEC honors in 2025 and was a 2x SEC Champion for the Bulldogs. Per NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah, Allen was his 32nd best overall prospect in this year’s draft class , but the Colts managed to obtain great value at Pick #53, and that was even after a trade down from their original #47th overall pick, that also netted Indianapolis an additional 4th round pick: 32. CJ Allen Georgia · LB · Junior Allen is a productive, intelligent playmaker.
He plays bigger than his listed size (6-foot-1, 235 pounds). Against the run, he has good instincts/awareness. He can thud off offensive guards or play over the top of them.