Big Ten Standout Braelon Allen from Wisconsin Declares for NFL Draft

Wisconsin’s Braelon Allen, a standout three-year starting running back and All-Big Ten performer, has officially announced his decision to enter the 2024 NFL draft.

Allen, who shared his announcement on social media, will not participate in the Badgers’ upcoming bowl game, as confirmed by a team spokesperson to ESPN.

The Fond du Lac, Wisconsin native concludes his Wisconsin career with an impressive 3,494 rushing yards and 35 touchdowns on 597 attempts. He achieved over 1,200 rushing yards in each of his first two seasons, garnering second-team All-Big Ten recognition, and is in contention for a third all-league honor when this year’s offensive awards are revealed.

“Playing for Wisconsin and wearing the motion W has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Allen said in a video announcing his NFL departure. “I was proud of carry on the incredible legacy of RBU and follow in the footsteps of so many great running backs. I’ve tried to represent UW and my state with dignity and pride.”

Allen joined Ron Dayne (1996), James White (2010), and Jonathan Taylor (2017) as the only Wisconsin running backs to surpass 1,000 rushing yards as true freshmen. He recorded 15 games of 100 rushing yards or more in his first two seasons before being hindered by injuries twice this fall. Allen had limited carries in four games, including just three in a November 11th loss to Northwestern. However, he finished strong with 165 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the recent rivalry win over Minnesota.

ESPN’s Mel Kiper ranks Allen as his No. 10 draft-eligible running back, while ESPN’s Matt Miller placed Allen at No. 4 on his running back rankings at the end of October.