Braelon Allen, RB, Wisconsin (Junior)

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Strengths :

  • Size
  • Power
  • Age
  • Pass protection


Weaknesses
:

  • Not athletic
  • High pad level
  • Lack of creativity
  • Ball protection
  • Limited contribution as a receiver
  • Overuse in college football

TTProfil

 

Braelon Allen has an intriguing build similar to that of Najee Harris or Derrick Henry, but unfortunately, he doesn't possess the same athletic or technical qualities as those two. He isn't a good athlete even compared to his build; he lacks explosiveness and acceleration. Only his straight-line speed is decent when he manages to get past the first line of defense, which happens rarely. Due to his build, he possesses very good power, but he often plays too high on his feet, causing many hiccups in his game and disrupting the flow.


His footwork is quite average, lacking frequency and explosiveness, and his hips are not fluid, making it difficult for him to change directions. He lacks the athletic abilities to attack the outside; his game is limited to attacking the interior and taking the gap that opens in front of him. While he is difficult to bring down due to his size, it is not impossible. He doesn't break a lot of tackles; he is very inconsistent in this area due to being too high on his stance and not lowering his shoulder enough. He uses his stiff arm well, but he lacks other evasive moves besides his power. His awareness and vision are very average; he consistently misses openings, and his vision in the open field is also subpar. He lacks playmaking abilities. His ball security is very poor; he almost never brings his second arm to protect the ball, which cost him 2 fumbles back to back against Ohio State, for example, due to the same mistake. He is credited with 9 fumbles in 3 seasons according to ESPN, including 4 in 2023.


Braelon doesn't have a developed route tree, and I haven't seen any real receiving qualities in him. He doesn't have sure hands, his transition from receiver to runner is approximate, and since he lacks agility, explosiveness, and creativity, he is not a constant threat.


Allen does a great job in pass protection; he absorbs contact very well, even from interior defensive linemen. He still needs to refine his technique and be more active with his footwork to avoid being overwhelmed and to be more consistent.


Braelon Allen is an intriguing prospect on paper, but upon closer examination, his numerous minor flaws limit his potential. Unless there's a significant and unexpected improvement, which can't be solely attributed to his age considering he regressed in 2023, I have serious doubts about his ability to develop and perform consistently in the long term. He seems suited only for a Gap scheme utilization.
I would assess Braelon Allen as a 4th round prospect, with hopes for significant progression.

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