It’s no secret that inside linebacker is a big need for the Buccaneers and was something the team would look to address in both free agency and the draft. They have added veterans Alex Anzalone and Christian Rozeboom, but they likely aren’t done adding to that position as it is a critical part of Todd Bowles’ defense.
If the Bucs want to make a splash and take a swing, Georgia’s CJ Allen may be just what the doctor ordered. Let’s take a closer look at Allen and his potential fit with Tampa Bay.
CJ Allen’s Collegiate Career
As
a linebacker and running back in high school, Allen had 84 tackles on defense but also had over 1,600 rushing yards and 26 touchdowns in his senior season. The Georgia native would stay local and commit to the University of Georgia to play for the Bulldogs. Allen was a backup in his first season but an injury forced him into action and he held his own.
He was a starter on the Georgia defense the past two seasons, racking up 164 total tackles over the two years. This past season he also showed his ability to get after the quarterback with 3.5 sacks and he also had two forced fumbles. Those two things may appeal to the Bucs as they are in need of someone to step up and create those explosive plays on the defensive side of the ball.
At 6’1, 235 pounds Allen has good size and strength for the position and Tampa Bay has put an emphasis on getting bigger on defense this offseason.
Pro Day and Scouting Combine
Allen did not participate in any drills at the combine or the Georgia pro day. The main reason for this is knee swelling that he has had from a meniscus tear in November 2025. He returned to play just 13 days after the injury, but it appears that has hampered his ability to test out at both the combine and pro day. Teams will certainly want to get more information on the injury before making any decision to draft him.
What Allen can do for the Bucs in 2026
CJ Allen’s impact in year one would likely be significant assuming he is healthy and good to go. While the Bucs have added to their linebacker room, they haven’t made too many additions to where it would cut into Allen’s snaps. He would likely come in and be an instant starter next to Alex Anzalone. Tampa Bay would be putting a lot of faith in the rookie but when you are picking someone in the first round especially at a position of need, you are expecting that guy to be a instant positive contributor for you.
There may be growing pains in 2026 as there is with most rookies, but Allen can come in and make the defense better by representing a significant upgrade at the inside linebacker position.
Three Year Outlook
Allen certainly possesses the potential of a good starter in the NFL. Can he be a star? The ceiling can be questioned a bit, and I don’t know if Allen will ever reach star status, but it’d be a surprise if he wasn’t at least a solid NFL player. Three years from now, Allen is likely the team’s top linebacker if all goes well and is turning into a leader on that defense. Playing at Georgia he has plenty of experience of playing in big games and that experience could very well come in handy especially as he gets acclimated to the NFL.
Three years from now, the Bucs could have found a long-term answer at the linebacker position.
Stock Report
Allen is considered to be a first round pick with some even connecting him to the Bucs at 15th overall. Even with some injury concerns, he’ll still likely be a top 20 pick in this year’s draft.
On the clock…
The choice is now yours, Bucs fans. Would you take a chance on the talented linebacker? Or would you maybe wait to address the position a bit later? Let us know in the comments below.
