I know this guy polarizes most fans, but I like the way he plays football. And I fully realize his limitations. It seems after his pretty poor Combine, that he's fallen off the map. The only team to have him in for a visit was the Buc's and they're local. While some once had him pegged as a 4th or 5th rounder, it wouldn't be very surprising if he slid to UDFA status.
If he makes it in the NFL, I don't think he'll have a long career, or consistently break off long gains. But I DO think he'll punish defenses and gain yards. So with Jennings and Hillis in fold, would he be worth brining to camp? I'd just like to see what this kid can do.
I know that I seemed down on Wilder, Jr. early in the draft process, but he is a tough, hard-nosed kid with some talent but some serious flaws such as his upright style and his lack of top end speed. He could turn in a nice career, or he could be injured and out of the league in a few years. Definitely worth the risk of a late round pick.
1. An altered system is being put into place and the Giants need veterans who already understand the NFL
2. Limited Practices equals limited reps. IMO, the Giants don't have the time this offseason to waste limited practice reps on kids still learning the NFL game.
3. OTA's. It's obvious the kids brought into OTA's over the years aren't grasping the materials. The HB's aren't sure who to block, the receivers run the wrong way, the DB's needs the system "simplified" and the linebackers are learning. This team needs more veterans this offseason. Nobody wants to spend time teaching a kid how to hold onto the football correctly. Not this year.
Look at the roster. The Giants have many HB's, all veterans. They even have two fullbacks b/c, IMO, the Giants want multiple veterans who understand the system rather than go hunting if an injury occurs or teaching a kid. The same goes WR. Manningham, interested in Rice, Randle and Cruz are on the roster. Certainly they may add a receiver but I doubt a HB.
I do believe Wilder has a very good chance of being the back you mentioned yet I don't think he's right for this Giants team, this year. A lot of change in the offense, limited practice time and a real sense of urgency throughout the organization. It's not the year for a rookie to steal valuable, limited practice reps. Just my opinion.
While a veteran RB has hopefully learned from their NFL experience, RB is one of the few positions than often contribute as a rookie, with some RB's having their first season as among their best. If a RB can pick up a blitz and hold onto the ball, they can play their rookie season.
And as far as the system is concerned; what system? All Giants RB's are starting from zero, because it's a new system. And Jennings, who will likely compete as top RB wasn't even with the team last year.