Georgia Bulldogs football program has an impressive track record of developing linebackers, arguably more so than any other position over the past decade. Since 2018, eight Georgia linebackers have been selected in the NFL draft, and rising star CJ Allen is already being projected as a potential first-round pick.
NFL draft experts are often debating who is the top linebacker in the 2026 NFL draft. The debate often ends up being between Texas Longhorns start Anthony Hill and Georgia’s CJ Allen. Dane Brugler, an NFL draft analyst for The Athletic, has identified CJ Allen as his top-ranked linebacker for the 2026 NFL draft.
“Between his range, instincts and the fact that he dons Georgia’s No. 3 jersey, Allen brings back immediate flashbacks of Roquan Smith patrolling the middle of the defense in Athens,” Brugler wrote (subscription required). “Allen is quick to key, read and flow and shows the range to make plays outside the numbers. Although he isn’t the longest player, he can defeat blocks with quickness or force. Allen also hits like a ton of bricks without sacrificing his balance at contact, which makes him a reliable tackler.”
While Dane Brugler of The Athletic ranks CJ Allen as the top linebacker for the 2026 NFL draft, he notes that Allen needs to improve his playmaking in coverage. However, Brugler highlights Allen’s football awareness as his best asset, which aligns with defensive coordinator Glenn Schumann’s reputation for developing linebackers with exceptional football IQ.
In 2024, Allen recorded 76 tackles, three tackles for loss, and an interception. Given that Georgia linebackers often show a significant jump in production in their third year within the system, it will be compelling to see if Allen, a junior, follows this trend. Allen has been named to the Butkus Award watchlist and will look to become UGA’s fourth Butkus winner in the Kirby Smart era.