Anthony Allen is a terrific all-around athlete, which his 2011 NFL Combine drills are confirming. He ran a 4.54 40-yard dash, fast for a big back and faster than some wide receivers (and Cam Newton!). He also turned in the third-highest vertical jump of any player so far and the best any running back has mustered since Donald Brown in 2006.
He’s reportedly supposed to meet with the Green Bay Packers, likely among other teams.
The lingering questions about Allen don’t have anything to do with his physique. Unlike Jonathan Dwyer, Allen has taken his Combine preparation very seriously, showing up in season shape for Senior Bowl weigh-ins and ready to ball today. Running with the rock in his hand won’t change any scout’s issues with drafting him, either.
Allen is going to have to show he can quickly become a pro-quality pass-blocker and -catcher after doing very little of either at Georgia Tech. If he can do that, he could be an absolute steal for a team that needs a durable power back.