Cleveland Browns 2017 NFL Draft Profile: Jonathan Allen
By Kirk Binder
Allen’s potential impact for the Browns
Pairing Allen inside with Shelton would allow Gregg Williams to attack the way he did with the Los Angeles Rams when he had Aaron Donald and Michael Brockers. Allen would play the 3-technique while Shelton plays the shade. Add Garrett and Ogbah on the ends and you now have what should be a strength on the defense.
It is imperative for the defensive line to be able to stop the run game in the AFC North, where smashmouth football is still played. Instead of consistent four-or-more-yard gains on first downs, the offense would be looking at more second-and-long situations. Therefor,e they would be forced into earlier passing situations.
While the NFL has become more of a passing league, a strong defensive line is the best weapon against the pass. With added pressure the QB has less time to throw the ball, thus forcing passes into coverage or taking a sack. This will benefit the Browns beleaguered secondary giving them an edge not having to cover receivers as long.
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If the Browns are sitting at No. 12 and Jonathan Allen does fall that far then he should definitely be a consideration. Unless they are looking for a quarterback, or one of Malik Hooker or Jamal Adams falls, Allen added with Garrett would make the Cleveland defensive line a strength for years to come.