The Houston Texans will be hosting linebacker Dakota Allen at their local prospect tryouts per Aaron Wilson of the Houston Chronicle. Allen garnered much attention after his appearance in the Netflix series “Last Chance U” where players then at East Mississipi Junior College were followed as they were given a second chance.
In Allen’s case, this came after being dropped by the Texas Tech Red Raiders following a burglary charge just before the 2016 season.
After the charges were dismissed and he had a strong season at the JUCO level, he was given a second chance by the Raiders as he returned to Lubbock Texas. Over the next two years showed great promise, making 23 appearances, 162 total tackles, and 2.0 sacks, the majority of which came during his junior year in 2017.
Allen is a very determined player. He keeps his focus and doesn’t take his eye off the ball. A strong run defender, he’s quick on his feet and is a decent tackler, although does lack the desired bulk and general size he may need in the NFL.
In a well-penned letter titled “A Letter to NFL GM’s” published in The Players Tribune earlier this year, Allen discussed his past mistakes and admitted that these will raise red flags and cloud many people’s judgment of him.
However, he was adamant to convey that he has learned from his mistakes and that they do not define his character now.
He went on to say, “I’m not scared to discuss my past mistakes because I know they’re part of who I am. I can’t ignore them and pretend everyone else will, as well. But beyond that, I’ve put in the work to make sure that they will not define my future.”
