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2017 NFL Draft: The Top 32 Prospects and How the 49ers Are Linked to Each

By Peter Panacy

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the start of the 2014 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2017; Tampa, FL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman Jonathan Allen (93) in the 2017 College Football Playoff National Championship Game at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 4: Defensive Lineman Jonathan Allen, Alabama

The 49ers did have a pre-draft meeting with Alabama defensive lineman Jonathan Allen, as reported by NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport:

Not long ago, Allen was widely viewed as the No. 2 overall prospect behind Myles Garrett. His stock might have slipped a bit, but not much. And he still should be viewed as a top-10 pick in this year’s NFL Draft.

Like Solomon Thomas, the 49ers would have to do some rearranging along the defensive line if they went with Allen, who plays the same position as incumbents DeForest Buckner and Arik Armstead.

Still, Allen is a force and could wind up being a crucial cog in an up-and-coming Niners D-line.