Pro Football Focus went all the way back to 2006 to find the highest-graded rookie on each of the 32 NFL teams during that span. Without looking, any guesses on which Colts player that might be?
If you guessed tight end Dwayne Allen, who the Colts selected in the third round of the 2012 NFL draft, you're right! PFF had some interesting things to say about Allen:
Allen had a standout rookie season, making an impact in both the passing and running games. However, he missed 15 games the following year due to a hip injury. Despite the setback, Allen bounced back with 40 receptions, 485 yards, and an impressive nine touchdowns in 2014.
Unfortunately, injuries continued to plague Allen beyond 2013, causing him to miss eight games from 2014 to 2016. His rookie season numbers ended up being his career highs in yards and receptions. According to PFF's run-blocking metric, his grade varied from quite good to around league average.
Allen's production dipped in 2015, but he still managed 35 catches, 406 yards, and six touchdowns the next season. The 2016 season was his last with the Colts after spending five seasons with the team. He then played 29 games with the New England Patriots during the 2017 and 2018 seasons, totaling 13 receptions for 113 yards and a touchdown.
In March 2019, Allen signed a two-year deal with the Dolphins but was released with an injury settlement that August.
Now, looking at this year's incoming rookie class for the Colts, maybe Laiatu Latu or Adonai Mitchell can challenge Allen's 2012 rookie season for the title of highest-graded first-year player. Exciting times ahead!
Login