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It is time to begin our study of the 2012 NFL Draft. As I have done each of the past two years I will provide at least one 'prospect profile' each day leading up to the April draft.
Our community mock draft will be held some time in March -- probably two rounds, as it was last year.
We begin today by looking at the latest SB Nation 2012 NFL Mock Draft, released Monday morning. In that mock draft, SB Nation has the Giants selecting Dwayne Allen, tight end, Clemson with the 32nd overall selection.
So, let's take a closer look at Allen.
With both Jake Ballard and Travis Beckum likely down for the start of the 2012 season after tearing ACLs in the Super Bowl, we know the Giants will do something about the tight end position. If you have paid attention over the years you also know that does not mean they will draft a tight end in the first round simply because there is a positional need. General manager Jerry Reese drafts for value, not need.
Thing is, a player like Allen could wind up being the perfect blend of value and need with the 32nd pick. Most draft websites rank Allen anywhere from the No. 1 to No. 3 tight end available in the upcoming draft.
Mocking The Draft recently referred to Allen as "far and away the best TE in the class" due to a combination of receiving and blocking abilities.
Dwayne Allen By The Numbers
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 255
Year: Junior
2011 Stats: 14 games, 49 catches, 592 yards (12.08 yards per catch), eight touchdowns.
Dwayne Allen Highlights vs. Auburn (via lordseal92)