The Arizona Cardinals passed on defensive end Nick Bosa with the first overall pick in the NFL Draft on Thursday -- but they got their edge rusher one day later by selecting Boston College defensive end Zach Allen with the first pick in the third round.
The 6-foot-4, 280-pound Allen was a three-year starter at Boston College. He recorded 40.5 tackles for loss and 16.5 sacks in his collegiate career.
The Cardinals add edge defender Zach Allen with the first pick of the third round!
— PFF Draft (@PFF_College) April 27, 2019
Allen was one of the best run defenders in college football in 2017 before a 90.3 pass-rushing grade this past season at @BCFootball #NFLDraft https://t.co/PoBtl4HSes
NFL draft analyst Lance Zierlein calls Allen a "hard-charging defensive end who calls on initial quickness, play strength and outstanding instincts to counter his lack of length and athleticism. Allen's toughness and ability to diagnose quickly could allow him to play early as a run defender, but limitations as a rusher could push him inside on passing downs. He has average starter's potential and could be in consideration by odd or even fronts at defensive end."
The Cardinals selected Washington cornerback Byron Murphy and Massachusetts wide receiver Andy Isabella with their second-round picks. The latter pick was acquired from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for quarterback Josh Rosen.
With the 65th pick, we have selected Zach Allen!#CardsDraft pic.twitter.com/WPwOdo4hnj
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) April 27, 2019
