Jonathan Allen wins Rotary Lombardi Award
Former Alabama defensive end Jonathan Allen was named the recipient of the 47th Rotary Lombardi Award on Saturday in Houston.
The award recognizes a player who's on-field contributions match his discipline, virtue, and wisdom exemplified by the late Vince Lombardi.
Allen beat out former Texas A&M defensive end Myles Garrett, former Michigan linebacker Jabrill Peppers, and Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson for the honor.
Jonathan Allen your 2016 Lombardi Award winner. First for @AlabamaFTBL since 1986. Congrats Jon! #RollTide pic.twitter.com/LqHuj0UrFV
— Alabama Football (@AlabamaFTBL) February 12, 2017
The Rotary Lombardi Award has traditionally been handed out to the top offensive lineman, defensive lineman, or linebacker in the country, but this year's list of nominees included a quarterback for the first time.
Allen, who's projected to be a first-round pick in the upcoming NFL draft, recorded 69 tackles, 10.5 sacks, and three fumble recoveries for Alabama's vaunted defense.
A unanimous All-American, Allen took home three other national awards for his work in 2016.
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