Jason Allen was a two-time all-state running back for Muscle Shoals high school in Alabama. He had over 2,000 total yards and 24 touchdowns as a senior and was considered to be the #1 prospect in the state after being named Alabama player of the year in 2001. Allen didn’t see much playing time as a true freshman, but he found himself starting at cornerback a month into his sophomore season. After becoming a starter, he immediately made an impact and by years end he had emerged as one of the top defenders on the Volunteer defense. He had a breakout year after moving to free safety as a junior, leading the SEC in tackles with 123 stops on the year. He was named first team all-SEC and became the first non-linebacker to lead Tennessee in tackles since they began tracking the stat 35 years ago. Allen applied for early entry into the 2005 NFL draft after being given a second round grade by the NFL draft advisory committee. He later changed his mind about the draft, opting to return to Tennessee and the cornerback position which may increase his draft stock in 2006.

Jason Allen is a very experienced player who has started at both free safety and cornerback during his time at Tennessee. He has an excellent combination of size and speed which allows him to match up against almost any receiver who lines up against him. He is a good cover guy and even better in run support. He combines excellent tackling skills with the ability to make the big hit. He is a good leader who has been voted team captain in each of the past two seasons. He has proven to be a very durable player in college—he hasn’t missed a single game due to injury since coming to Tennessee in 2002. Jason Allen is a very versatile player who could play free safety or cornerback in the NFL. He prefers to play cornerback, which is one of the reasons he came back for his senior year since he played safety as a junior, however which position he plays will most likely depend on which team drafts him. He is sure to be one of the top defensive backs to be selected in the 2006 NFL draft.