A quick glance around the Interwebs to find various scouting reports on the Kansas City Chiefs second round selection of Illinois OL Jeff Allen reveals a group of scouts who believe he will eventually be a starter in the NFL. However, most people believed he would have lasted for another round. Given the run on offensive linemen, perhaps that was not the case. Here's a sampling of what some are saying about the Chiefs newest rookie:
Ryan McChrystal of Draft Ace has Allen as a mid-round pick and says he could grow into a starting role:
Allen is a decent mid-round prospect as a right tackle or guard. He can play at the next level, but what you see is what you get. There's limited room for growth as a tackle due to his average athleticism. However, if he continues to improve his strength he could develop into a quality starting guard.
Matt De Lima of FFToolbox also believes he's a future starter at guard:
He's a better pass blocker and does well attacking as an in-line blocker. When engaged, he needs to learn to keep his knees bent and not lose leverage. Allen has a nice reaction time, gets off at the snap cleanly and quickly. He doesn't play out of control and could develop into a starter at guard. Cleaning up some fundamental issues could really take his game to the next level and that potential is what should hold him in the mid-rounds of the 2012 NFL Draft.
From Pro Football Weekly, Nolan Nawrocki sees him as a solid, long-term performer at the pro level:
A model of consistency on and off the field, Allen makes the game look easy and is one of the best pure pass protectors in this year's draft, with unique balance, coordination and agility to warrant late first-round consideration as a left tackle prospect. Versatility, football smarts and durability could allow him to start immediately and play at a high level for the next 10 years.
Dane Brugler of NFL Draft Scout wasn't too impressed from Senior Bowl:
Another collegiate left tackle who was moved inside to guard, Allen looked much more comfortable in tight quarters. He doesn't extend his arms or use his hands as effectively as he should, often allowing rushers into his body, but he holds his own at the point of attack. His weight also looks a bit sloppy, especially in his midsection, which is disappointing from a college left tackle. With Allen, it doesn't always look pretty, but he seems to get the job done.
For more on the Kansas City Chiefs and the 2012 NFL Draft, check out Arrowhead Pride, Mocking The Draft and SB Nation's NFL page.