New York Giants Draft Prospect: RB Braelon Allen

Can the New York Giants look to the mid-late rounds for a running back addition?

Author:
Brandon Olsen
Publish date:
Mar 9, 2024 10:00 AM EST

In this story:

New York Giants

Wisconsin Badgers

Braelon Allen, RB

Height: 6’ 1¼”
Weight: 235 lbs.
Class: Junior
School: Wisconsin

Braelon Allen was the 227th-ranked linebacker in the 2021 recruiting class out of Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin. Allen committed to the Wisconsin Badgers over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish before moving to a full-time running back as a true freshman.

Strengths

Insane size for a running back. 95th percentile height, 95th percentile weight.
I love him--that’s how his willingness and awareness in pass protection makes me feel.
Has good speed for a back, especially at his size
Will be 20 years old during his rookie season
Most of the time he’s quick and decisive in hitting the hole, 2022 was more consistent so it could’ve been the new offense and line in 2023 that gave him some hesitation
Patient behind his line
Shows good awareness in short-yardage and on the goal line
His stiff arm is violent
Bounces like a pinball if you aren’t going to wrap him up
Has soft hands out of the backfield, is going to be an option on swings, screens, and as a checkdown option

View more draft prospect scouting profiles.

Weaknesses

Doesn’t have much wiggle to his game; runs with pretty tight hips
He cuts inside too often when there’s space outside the tackles
Tends to carry the ball a bit away from his body, which can lead to some fumbles
Acceleration is unimpressive - not damning, but struggles to pick up steam after making a cut
Route-running is likely never going to be a strength of his
His pass-protection technique will need some work

Summary

If this were 1970-2010, we’d be talking about Allen as a top-ten pick. In 2024, we’re talking about him as a mid-round pick because of his skillset. Allen is a bulldozer who is going to make most of his money between the tackles and on early downs and will likely need a passing-down specialist with him.

Given his extensive playing time experience, I think Allen is kind of a “we know what he is” kind of prospect - and he’s a talented runner with limited upside in the passing game.

GRADE: 6.1