"If the Niners don't trade down to add up more picks, I expect them to take an edge rusher here," wrote Kiper. "And Allen (6-5, 250) is just a step behind Bosa on my board. Two former first-round picks along the defensive line (Arik Armstead and Solomon Thomas) have struggled in San Francisco, but neither has the pure pass-rushing ability of Allen, who had 17 sacks and five forced fumbles last season. Allen would fill a glaring need."
Allen was also ESPN analyst Todd McShay's mock selection for the 49ers earlier this month at No. 2 overall.
Pass rusher is one of the 49ers' most glaring needs entering the draft season, and Allen is viewed as the second-best (behind Bosa) among a strong class at the position. He finished his senior season with 17 sacks, which set a new Kentucky single-season school record, and recorded 31.5 sacks in his four collegiate seasons.
The NFL Scouting Combine kicks off next week from Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. That's when teams will get a closer look at Allen and the over 300 other hopeful draft prospects.