CJ ALLEN: Who is the Indianapolis Colts' Second-Round Pick, and How Does He Fit?

Locked On Colts - Daily Podcast On The Indianapolis Colts19mApril 28, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this bonus episode of Locked On Colts, hosts Zach Hicks and Jake Arthur dive deep into the Indianapolis Colts' second-round draft pick, linebacker C.J. Allen from Georgia. They celebrate Allen's selection as a transformative addition to the defense, highlighting his elite leadership, mental toughness, and on-field production as a four-star recruit who started as a freshman and became a unanimous All-American despite battling a meniscus tear and MCL injury. The duo emphasizes Allen's exceptional run defense, physicality, communication skills, and surprising coverage ability, positioning him as a perfect fit for the Colts' defensive scheme under coordinator Lou Anarumo. They project Allen as an immediate starter at Mike linebacker, praising his intelligence, maturity, and low missed tackle rate, while drawing pro comps to players like Demario Davis, CJ Mosley, and Henry Toa Toa. The hosts believe Allen will bring stability, consistency, and a 'vacuum cleaner' presence to the defense, leveling out the boom-or-bust nature of previous players like Zaire Franklin. The episode closes with a strong endorsement of Allen’s readiness for the NFL, both mentally and physically, and a call to support the show through the Everydayer Club.

Key Takeaways
1

C.J. Allen is a highly intelligent, physically tough, and mature linebacker who started at Georgia as a freshman and played through a serious knee injury.

2

He’s projected as an immediate starter at Mike linebacker for the Colts, bringing stability, communication, and elite run defense to the unit.

3

Allen’s low missed tackle rate (7.5%) and ability to play through injury make him a reliable, high-floor player for the Colts' defense.

4

His fit with the Colts is ideal due to his leadership, football IQ, and ability to command the defense—perfect for Chris Ballard’s vision of a 'Kirby Smart-type' player.

5

Pro comps include Demario Davis (smart, savvy, long-term starter), CJ Mosley (consistent above-average performer), and Henry Toa Toa (physical, productive, run-stuffing linebacker).

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Welcome & Show Support

Introduction to the Locked On Colts podcast and promotion of the Everydayer Club membership for ad-free episodes and fan community access.

1:40
3 min

C.J. Allen: The New Mike Linebacker

He's the DD for this party here. Not a party. Okay, we're going to go too long on that.

Highlight
5:00
5 min

Background & College Career

Jake Arthur details Allen’s four-star recruit status, multi-sport high school background, early enrollment at Georgia, and leadership accolades including All-American honors and injury resilience.

10:00
5 min

On-Field Skills & Film Breakdown

He’s a physical player that’s really strong in run game. He’s lining up guys pre-snap and telling them where they need to be.

Highlight
15:00
5 min

Pro Comparisons & Long-Term Projection

I could see that like a guy who's just so smart and plays with that savvy that you're looking for.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I've been calling him the vacuum cleaner because he cleans up all the dirt in front of him.
Zach Hicks15:24
Viral: 85.0
I could see that like a guy who's just so smart and plays with that savvy that you're looking for.
Zach Hicks12:50
Viral: 80.0
He’s a physical player that’s really strong in run game. He’s lining up guys pre-snap and telling them where they need to be.
Jake Arthur10:40
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Hosts

Zach HicksJake Arthur
Topics Discussed
C.J. Allen Draft Profile95%Colts Defense Strategy90%Player Fit and Role Projection88%NFL Draft Analysis85%Linebacker Development85%Pro Comparisons80%College Football Leadership75%Injury Resilience70%
People & Brands

C.J. Allen

person

35xPositive

Indianapolis Colts

other

28xPositive

Georgia Bulldogs

other

15xPositive

Lou Anarumo

person

8xPositive

Chris Ballard

person

7xPositive

Zaire Franklin

person

6xMixed

Demario Davis

person

5xPositive

Henry Toa Toa

person

4xPositive

CJ Mosley

person

4xPositive

Everydayer Club

other

4xPositive

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