Colts draft LB CJ Allen who says they gotta pay after draft slide

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The may have found both a defensive cornerstone and a motivated competitor in CJ Allen, whom they selected in the 2026 NFL Draft. And if Allens first me sage after hearing his name called is any indication, hes arriving in Indianapolis with something to prove.  They gotta pay, Allen said after the draft, referencing the teams that pa sed on him. Its a bold statementbut one that reflects the edge and confidence he brings to the field.  Allen enters the NFL as one of the more instinctive linebackers in his cla s. Known for his discipline and awarene s, he consistently positions himself to make plays. Whether attacking downhill against the run or flowing sideline to sideline, Allen shows the ability to diagnose plays quickly and react without hesitation. His knack for shooting gaps and disrupting rushing lanes should translate immediately at the next level.  In coverage, Allen is particularly effective in zone schemes. He reads quarterbacks well, allowing him to break on the ball and limit pa sing windows. While there is room for growth in man coverage, especially against more Dwight Howard Jersey  dynamic receiving threats, he has shown the ability to handle running backs in the flat and keep plays in front of him.  Allen brings pa s-rush upside, chance to fill Colts void at linebacker  Allen also brings value as a pa s rusher. With 87 pa s-rush attempts last season, he demonstrated a willingne s to attack and an ability to generate pre sure. He may not always win at first contact, but his persistence and motor allow him to remain disruptive throughout the play.  The  selection of Allen comes at a critical time for the franchise. Indianapolis moved on from longtime linebacker Zaire Franklin in an offseason trade with the , creating a significant void in the middle of the defense. Allen is expected to compete forand potentially securea starting role immediately.  If he can live up to expectations, Allen could not only replace Franklins production but also establish himself as a long-term leader for the defense. With his combination of instincts, versatility, and motivation, the Colts are betting that Allens me sage to the rest of the league will soon be backed up on Sundays.  Elgin Baylor Jersey