From MHSAA State Champion to NFL Pro: The Unlikely Rise of Jonathan Allen

In the world of college football, names like Baker Mayfield and Ezekiel Elliott have become synonymous with talent and success. However, there's another story of an unlikely rise to the top that's often overlooked. Jonathan Allen, a defensive tackle from a small town in Alabama, defied the odds to become a first-round NFL draft pick. This article will explore Allen's journey from high school state champion to NFL star, highlighting the key factors that contributed to his success.

Jonathan Allen's journey began in the small town of Opelika, Alabama, where he attended Opelika High School. It was here that he excelled in both football and baseball, leading his team to a state championship in 2012. Allen's impressive performance on the field earned him a spot on the USA Today All-USA Alabama football team and the Alabama Sports Writers Association's All-State team.

The Making of a Football Star

Early Life and High School Career

Allen's love for football began at a young age, inspired by his father, a high school coach. He spent countless hours practicing and honing his skills, eventually becoming one of the top high school football players in the state. Allen's high school career was marked by several accolades, including:

• 2012 Alabama Mr. Football Finalist
• 2012 Gatorade Alabama Football Player of the Year
• 2012 USA Today All-USA Alabama Football team

These awards and recognitions didn't go unnoticed, and Allen's talents were soon recruited by top colleges and universities. In this section, we'll delve deeper into Allen's college career and the impact it had on his NFL prospects.

College Career and Academic Achievements

Allen attended the University of Alabama, where he played for the Crimson Tide football team. During his time at Alabama, Allen recorded 32 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, and 4 sacks. He also earned numerous academic accolades, including:

• 2014 National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award
• 2014 Alabama Athletics Dean's List
• 2015 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Academic Excellence Award

Allen's impressive college career and academic achievements made him a prime target for the NFL draft.

The NFL Draft and Professional Career

First-Round Pick and Early Career

In the 2017 NFL draft, Allen was selected by the Washington Redskins with the 17th overall pick. He quickly became a starter for the team, playing 11 games in his rookie season. Allen's early career was marked by several notable performances, including:

• 2017 Redskins Rookie of the Week (Week 11)
• 2017 USA Today NFL Defensive Rookie of the Week (Week 11)

Allen's impressive play on the field earned him a spot on the Pro Football Writers of America's 2017 NFL All-Rookie Team.

Development and Impact

As Allen continued to develop his skills, he became a key contributor to the Redskins' defense. In this section, we'll explore the impact of Allen's play on the team and the NFL as a whole.

Defensive Techniques and Strategies

Allen's success on the field can be attributed to his impressive defensive techniques and strategies. He is known for his:

• Strong tackling ability
• Quick feet and agility
• Ability to play both run and pass defense

Allen's versatility and athleticism make him a valuable asset to any team.

Leadership and Intangibles

Allen's leadership skills and intangibles have also been praised by coaches and teammates alike. He is known for his:

• Work ethic and dedication
• Leadership qualities on and off the field
• Ability to motivate and inspire teammates

These intangibles have made Allen a respected and beloved figure in the NFL community.

Conclusion

Jonathan Allen's journey from high school state champion to NFL star is an inspiring tale of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. From his early days in Opelika, Alabama, to his current status as a first-round NFL draft pick, Allen has proven himself to be a talented and driven individual. As we look to the future, it's exciting to think about the possibilities for Allen and his continued growth as a football player and leader.

Career Stats and Awards

• 2012 Alabama Mr. Football Finalist
• 2012 Gatorade Alabama Football Player of the Year
• 2012 USA Today All-USA Alabama Football team
• 2014 National Football Foundation Scholar-Athlete Award
• 2014 Alabama Athletics Dean's List
• 2015 NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) Academic Excellence Award
• 2017 Redskins Rookie of the Week (Week 11)
• 2017 USA Today NFL Defensive Rookie of the Week (Week 11)
• 2017 Pro Football Writers of America's 2017 NFL All-Rookie Team