Scouting report: Asher Allen

Asher Allen

5'10, 198 pounds | Georgia | Cornerback

Strengths: Allen is a strong cornerback who can match up nicely against bigger receivers. Possesses very good agility, which he can utilize against quick, shifty receivers. Might be best lining up on the inside at the beginning of his career. Played strictly in man coverage at Georgia, which helped him develop the tools of a top cornerback. For a cornerback, Allen excels at playing the run. His strength allows him to get off receiver blocks and make a play. Has good speed but it takes him a bit of time to get up to his top gear. Added value as a kick returner.

Weaknesses: Lack of height hurts Allen the most. He’ll often lose out on jump balls against taller targets. Needs to do a better job of reading his receiver instead of the quarterback. Too often bite a quarterback’s fake. Hands are average, but Allen will be downgraded in this area due to a broken hand in 2008. Still, he only had three interceptions in his career. Catches in his body. Gets overly aggressive and get beat to the inside.

Final word: Allen didn’t have a lot of passes thrown his way during the 2008 season following his stellar 2007. That, combined with a broken hand, make him look like a puzzling early entrant. He may have improved his draft stock some by returning for his senior year, but Allen will be a solid starter at the next level. Packed with upside. Named a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award and the Lott Trophy. Played really well in Georgia’s last two bowl games.

Round projection: 3