Kuopio Steelers sign Miami of Ohio DL Ikeem Allen

AFI | American Football | 01/18/2021

Graphic: Igor Lazarevic

Reigning Finnish champions, the Kuopio Steelers, have added to their defensive arsenal with the signing of defensive lineman Ikeem Allen from the University of Miami Redhawks (NCAA Div. I, FBS).

The 24 year old, 6’1″, 270 pound Allen, from Charlotte, North Carolina most recently played for the Brisbane Rhinos in Australia’s Gridiron Queensland league, helping them to a 9-1 regular season record and a berth in the championship final where they lost by a single point to the Bayside Ravens.

Allen enjoyed an excellent four-year career at the Miami University (Ohio) where he played 49 games and finished with 94 tackles, 14 tackles for loss and nine sacks. In his freshman year, he was named Miami’s Defensive Newcomer of the Year and in his senior season he was a third-team All-MAC selection and also named Defensive Power Player of the Year.

Miami of Ohio is also the alma mater of Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger and Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay among many others.

Allen is happy about playing for the Steelers:

“I chose the Kuopio Steelers mainly because of how genuine coach Pekka approached and introduced himself. Also the entire program reached out and showed love to me. So that was extremely soothing and I felt extremely comfortable.

“As a player, I describe myself as a Leader and Tone Setter. I’m that guy everyone can rely on as far as giving 110% every play. On and off the field expectations are high, as far as team chemistry. I’m a dynamic defensive lineman that can play multiple positions but love physicality so I love playing in the interior, providing a dominant run stop/pass rush for the team. I am relentless and bound to hit anything moving when I get going. What I bring to the team is Character, Leadership, Hard Working, and being a Role Model for my teammates.

“I truly don’t know much about Finland, but I have been doing my research and hearing feedback from fellow mates who play and coach on different teams in the league. And I’m truly excited and grateful to experience Finland.

My expectations for the season personally is to be the most dominant defensive player in the league. As a team goal I expect us to win a Championship and everyone to be dialed in to make it happen during the process.”