Strengths: Allen is the best blocking tight end in this class. He has the versatility to work as a lead blocker in the run game as an H-Back, an edge blocker to collapse a defensive end or defensive tackle to the inside, or a pass protector on edge rushers. Allen is quicker than fast as a receiver, but he's a fluid athlete with good vertical skills, body control, and excellent skill catching the ball away from his body. He's excellent at back-shoulder plays that the top hybrid tight ends in the NFL make on a weekly basis. Allen has good agility and power after the catch. He's one of the most complete tight ends to come along in the past five years.
Weaknesses: Allen lacks deep speed to stretch the field that his teammate Fleener possesses. Although Allen is strong, he has some issues losing his leverage as a run blocker. Otherwise, there's not much about his game that warrants criticism.
2012 Outlook: Fleener is likely the No. 1 option at tight end for fantasy owners, but Allen is good enough to play a Gronkowski-type role in the Colts offense if they employ two-tight ends as the base set. If this is the case, expect Allen to out-produce Fleener some weeks and have a shot at top-15 fantasy totals at his position in 2012. If not, Allen will be a situational player with good bye-week upside and waiver-wire value if Fleener gets hurt.
Dynasty Outlook: If the Colts plans for a two-tight end base offense are as obvious as it appeared on draft day, then Allen has a good chance to produce as a top-15 tight end for as long as he's paired with Fleener and Luck. His upside is top-five production, but the 8-12 range is probably more realistic.
NFL Comparison: Alge Crumpler during his Pro Bowl seasons in Atlanta is a very comparable player to Allen because he was a big, strong, quick athlete with excellent hands and skill as a blocker.