Jonathan Allen Returning to Alabama: Latest Comments and Reaction

Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen will return to the school for his senior season, according to Fox Sports' Bruce Feldman on Saturday.

Allen led the Crimson Tide with 12 sacks, tied for sixth in the nation overall, as part of a vaunted defensive line. He also led the team in tackles for loss with 14.5.

At 6'3", 272 pounds, Allen showed off his arsenal in 2015, displaying dynamic speed that provided an explosive first step off the snap along with a strength that allowed him to power his way through the interior of the trenches. 

He put those skills on display during the Tide's national semifinal game against Michigan State, as NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah highlighted:

His versatility allows him to choose where on the offensive line he's going to attack. He's been successful rushing from both the inside and the outside, which gives pass protectors a difficult time deciphering where he is going to charge from. 

Allen certainly has impressed ESPN's Adam Rittenberg this season:

Walter Football had him slated as a mid-first-round selection, and ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranked him fifth among all defensive ends, per Saturday Down South. 

Alabama receives a huge defensive boost with Allen returning for his senior season. The Tide are already losing senior defensive players like linemen Jarran Reed and D.J. Pettway and linebacker Reggie Ragland.

The team also saw junior defensive tackle A'Shawn Robinson declare for the draft, along with Heisman Trophy-winning running back Derrick Henry. Getting Allen back ensures there will be a familiar face, and a good one at that, on the line to lead the defense and help lead a title defense next season. 

Stats courtesy of Sports-Reference.com