2024 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Braelon Allen

Prospect Summary:

Wisconsin has had a long tradition of sending power backs to the NFL, including the likes of Ron Dayne, Montee Ball, Melvin Gordon, Jonathan Taylor and more. Following a little lull after Taylor, Braelon Allen re-established the power-back role for the Badgers, leading their offense over the past two seasons. Allen broke out in 2021 with an average of 6.8 yards per carry for 1,268 yards and 12 touchdowns. In 2022, he averaged 5.4 yards per carry totaling 1,242 yards with 11 scores. Over those two seasons, he brought in 21 receptions for 144 yards. Allen’s 2023 season with the Badgers saw him show more receiving ability, notching 28 receptions for 131 yards. On the ground, he averaged 5.4 yards per carry for 984 yards and 12 touchdowns.

For the NFL, Allen is a physical downhill runner who can power through tackles and is really tough for defenders to get on the ground. Allen possesses a strong, thick build with lower body strength to run through defenders and pick up yards after contact. Utilizing good balance and patience, Allen can make one cut and then get North-South, running downhill and charging into the secondary. As a pro, he will be an asset in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Beyond his power, Allen has enough quickness to hit the hole and a second gear to accelerate to the next level, but he lacks deep speed and will get caught from behind by NFL defenders. Allen also is a big back who can run upright at times, so improving his body lean could help him to be a more effective pro. He needs to improve that lean and keep the ball closer to his body because being upright and having the ball away from him could lead to fumbles in the NFL. While Allen lacks elite speed and gets caught from behind, but he has enough quickness to be effective between the tackles.

In the passing game, Allen could contribute some on swing passes to the flat and screens. He won’t me a dynamic mismatch weapon as a receiver, but he could contribute as a blocker. With his big build, he can take on defenders, plus he shows a willing attitude to block. After some development, Allen has the potential to be a good pass protector.

Allen could be a mid-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. He could be a solid rotational back who brings some size and power to the backfield. After starting out as a backup or platoon back, Allen could rise into being a starter.