Devon Allen to Oregon: Ducks Land 4-Star WR Recruit

Wide receiver Devon Allen, one of the top 2013 recruits from the state of Arizona, has decided to join Oregon, according to Fox Sports' Inna Lazarev. The Ducks emerged from a large group of interested teams to secure his commitment.

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Phoenix (Ariz.) Brophy Prep WR & track star, Devon Allen, has committed to Oregon.

— Inna Lazarev (@InnaLazarev) January 25, 2013"

The 6'1'', 187-pound Brophy Prep star didn't receive as much hype during the recruitment process as some of this year's other top receivers. That's most likely because he doesn't have as much upside as some of the class' elite wideouts.

On the other hand, Allen is ready to help right away.

According to 247Sports' composite rankings, Allen is a 4-star prospect and the 38th-best prospect at his position. He ranks as the No. 263 overall recruit and the fourth-best athlete coming out of Arizona this year.

A strong junior season put him on the national radar, leading to programs from around the country tracking him as a senior. More than 30 schools were involved.

Allen has shown good quickness and route-running ability, which is a crucial skill when it comes to recruits making their presence felt right away at the college level. It's something a lot of players struggle with at first.

Since Allen has already shown strong development in that area, he should have no problem earning the trust of the coaching staff. He's the type of player who can play on the outside or move into the slot to work the inside routes.

Questions about his big-play ability are the only reason he wasn't ranked higher. Coaches are always seeking players who can turn an eight-yard catch into a 80-yard touchdown simply by making a few moves and taking off.

It isn't clear if Allen will be able to do that once the speed of the game picks up in college. If he can, though, the high school standout will turn into a major steal because he's strong in several other areas as well. His track background should certainly help.

All told, he's the type of player that shouldn't have much trouble carving out a niche for himself. Since he's able to do so many things well, the coaching staff will be able to find ways to get him involved, even if he's not a top option in the passing game right away.

Those are the players that can turn a good class into a great class. They aren't No. 1 or No. 2 on any ranking lists, but they come in and contribute. That's more important than any star rating.

Allen fits the bill, and he should excel at the collegiate level.