Recruiting: Georgia DB Zion Allen picks Army

Army was always going to rank high on Zion Allen’s college football list.

Allen earned his first FBS offer from Army in May. Black Knights linebackers coach Juice Weaver visited Allen at Aquinas High School in Augusta, Ga., explaining Army’s recruiting process.

The Aquinas senior defensive back started researching Army, speaking with people that went to West Point. Next was a mid-June unofficial visit that helped learn about the academy’s history.

“It helped me realize this is an opportunity that you really can’t get anywhere else,” said Allen, who committed to Army on July 2. “When I went up there, I felt at home. The whole staff knew me and seemed pretty excited to see me.”

Army is adding a versatile athlete to its 2026 recruiting class in Allen. He’s played free safety, strong safety, cornerback and nickel back at Aquinas. Army is looking for the 6-foot-2, 190 to play safety or outside linebacker. Allen says he patterns his game after Ohio State safety Caleb Downs. He recorded 108 tackles as a junior.

“I’m very physical and I know Army plays physical football,” Allen said. “I also feel like I play high IQ football.”

Allen said talks with current Army players Jaxon Hammond and A.J. Williams factored into his commitment. Williams, a fullback, is an Aquinas graduate.

“They explained to me how the process worked and how beneficial it can be in growing you as a person and becoming a leader,” Allen said. “It matters to me that someone (Army) took a chance first when no one else would.”