Jonathan Allen, a top defensive end/outside linebacker recruit, has committed to the Alabama Crimson Tide, according to ESPN. Allen stars for Ashburn (Va.) Stone Bridge High School. He holds offers from Alabama, Florida, Ohio State, Penn State, USC, Michigan, Virginia Tech, Oklahoma, Stanford and Tennessee. Basically, he's a major recruit. Allen is a consensus four-star recruit and is widely viewed as one of the top-20 edge rushers in the country.
Outside Linebacker Recruit Jonathan Allen Commits To Alabama Over Florida
Alabama lands an elite pass rusher.
Allen spoke to ESPN about his commitment:
“At the end of the day I thought Alabama was the best fit for me,” Allen said. “They give me the best opportunity to showcase my talents.
“Going to Alabama I will be competing with and against the best players in the country,” he said. “I felt like at the end of the day that is going to make me a better player -- I enjoy the competition.”
Though he is listed at defensive end, the 6’3, 225-pound Allen will likely line up at the outside linebacker position known as the “jack” for the Crimson Tide in Alabama’s 3-4 defense. The position will allow Allen to rush the passer, while putting his hand on the ground in a three-point stance on third down.
Allen displays excellent quickness and strength for his size. He is the 14th commitment of the 2013 class for the Alabama Crimson Tide.
For more on Tide football, visit Alabama blog Roll Bama Roll, plus SEC blog Team Speed Kills.
