Georgia football All-SEC LB makes NFL draft decision

Georgia Bulldogs junior inside linebacker CJ Allen has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Allen announced his decision on Instagram, expressing gratitude toward God, his family, coaches, teammates, and fans. As a standout player, Allen earned first-team All-SEC honors for his performance in the 2025 season, where he recorded 88 tackles, 3.5 sacks, four pass deflections, and two forced fumbles.

Allen, standing 6-foot-1 and weighing 235 pounds, has been a starter since his freshman year in 2023 and is projected to be a first-round pick, potentially at No. 31 in the draft, according to recent mock drafts. His departure marks a significant transition for Georgia's defense, but with returning players like Chris Cole, Justin Williams, Zayden Walker, and likely Raylen Wilson, the Bulldogs are expected to maintain their strong linebacker corps due to successful recruiting efforts.

Allen joins other Georgia players, including defensive lineman Christen Miller and