ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller sees striking similarities between Jacksonville Jaguars star pass rusher Josh Allen and Alabama edge rusher Dallas Turner, potentially making Turner a top pick in the upcoming draft.
Josh Allen’s Breakout Season Fuels Comparisons
Josh Allen, the Jacksonville Jaguars’ standout edge rusher, is having a career year in 2023. With 13 sacks, 45 tackles, and 11 tackles for loss through 12 games, Allen is poised for a lucrative free agency period in 2024. His performance has raised the bar for young pass rushers entering the league and sparked comparisons to rising college stars. Allen’s success highlights the impact a dominant edge rusher can have and has teams searching for the next game-changing talent.
Dallas Turner: A Mirror Image of Allen?
ESPN’s Matt Miller believes Dallas Turner is the closest comparison to Allen in the 2024 NFL Draft. Miller highlights their similar builds and playing styles, noting that both are long, lean rushers capable of playing with their hand in the dirt or standing up as outside linebackers. He observes that Turner possesses superior play power compared to Allen coming out of college, but their speed rush and length as linebackers are remarkably alike. This comparison sets the stage for Turner to potentially become a top draft pick.
Turner’s College Dominance Solidifies Draft Stock
Turner’s impressive performance at Alabama further strengthens the comparison. In 13 games, he has amassed 50 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, and 9 sacks, showcasing his disruptive abilities on defense. His consistent production against top-tier competition solidifies his position as a highly sought-after prospect. Turner’s upcoming games, including the College Football Playoff, offer crucial opportunities to solidify his draft stock against elite opponents.
The Impact of the College Football Playoff
The College Football Playoff presents a significant platform for Turner to showcase his talents against top competition. A strong performance against Michigan in the semi-final, and potentially in the National Championship game, could propel him into the top 10 of the 2024 NFL Draft, mirroring Allen’s draft trajectory in 2019. This high-stakes environment will provide a crucial evaluation opportunity for NFL scouts.
Conclusion: A Star in the Making?
Dallas Turner’s combination of physical attributes, production, and upcoming high-profile games positions him as a potential top pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. The comparisons to Josh Allen suggest a bright future for the young edge rusher, leaving scouts and fans eager to see if he can live up to the hype. Will Turner become the next dominant force in the NFL? Only time will tell.
