ESPN analyst Mel Kiper predicted that the San Francisco 49ers would select Kentucky linebacker Josh Allen in his first mock draft. Version 2.0 is no different at the top of the draft order. Kiper, once again, has Ohio State defensive end Nick Bosa going No. 1 overall to the Arizona Cardinals and Allen headed to San Francisco after that.
"If the Niners don't trade down to add up more picks, I expect them to take an edge rusher here," wrote Kiper. "And Allen (6-5, 250) is just a step behind Bosa on my board. Two former first-round picks along the defensive line (Arik Armstead and Solomon Thomas) have struggled in San Francisco, but neither has the pure pass-rushing ability of Allen, who had 17 sacks and five forced fumbles last season. Allen would fill a glaring need."
Pass rusher is one of the 49ers' most glaring needs entering the draft season, and Allen is viewed as the second-best (behind Bosa) among a strong class at the position. He finished his senior season with 17 sacks, which set a new Kentucky single-season school record, and recorded 31.5 sacks in his four collegiate seasons.
The NFL Scouting Combine kicks off next week from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. That's when teams will get a closer look at Allen and the over 300 other hopeful draft prospects.
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