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2020 NFL Draft Preview: Linebacker

Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 9:05 am
LINEBACKER

Format includes a quick position overview, my grading scale and what the number mean, the summary and final grade from my final report on my top 15, a quick additional note on the player, and my ranks 16-25 with grades only.

*I AM NOT DOING NFL COMPARISONS

Quick Position Overview

Keep in mind I have an “EDGE” position preview coming up next week, so I may not go in to some of those linebackers in this preview. I am mainly talking about the off-ball guys that primarily play between the tackles. Depending on what NYG uses as their base personnel, we are likely looking at the newly signed Blake Martinez and second year kid Ryan Connelly, who is coming off a torn ACL after raising some eyebrows in 4 games. Neither of them are worth getting overly excited about, but that doesn’t mean the position is a weak point, not at all. In fact, especially if Connelly recovers well, the two should provide really good run defense between the tackles and to the sidelines.

The question here is two-fold. Will they be exposed in the passing game? Is there enough depth and intra-roster competition? David Mayo will be back to provide both and while we can’t look down on his performance in 2019, he is best suited for the backup role. Josiah Tauaefa looks to be a solid special teamer and backup, maybe similar to what they had in Chase Blackburn and Calvin Munson in the past. I’m not sure I see Chris Peace or Nate Harvey sticking to a 53 man roster. I think the hole they have here is coverage, as none of the above mentioned guys can hang with quality tight ends or pass catching backs. It’s been an issue for years and there isn’t a current solution on the roster.

GRADING SCALE

90+ All Pro Projection
85+: Pro Bowl Projection
81-84: First rounder – should be able to play right away
79-80: 2nd Rounder – Should be able to rotate right away – Year 2 starter
77-78: 3rd rounder – Should be able to rotate by end of rookie year – Year 2/3 starter
74-76: Early Day 3 – Special Teams – Future backup/possible starter
71-73: Mid Day 3 – Special Teams – Future backup / gamble starter
68-70: Late Day 3 - Back end of roster / Practice Squad / Development guy
65-67: Preferred UDFA
60-64: Undrafted FA



TOP 15 GRADES AND ANALYSIS

*Zack Baun, Terrell Lewis, Azur Kamara, Carter Coughlin are all graded in EDGE group


1. Isaiah Simmons / Clemson / 6'4 - 238

Grade: 89


Summary: Fourth year junior entry and two year starter from Olathe, Kansas. After an accomplished high school football and long jump career, Simmons redshirted his first year on campus at Clemson. When he finally got on the field in 2017, his upside jumped off the screen and the coaches knew they had a budding star that couldn’t be kept to one position. They moved him around a lot, seeing snaps at linebacker, nickel corner, safety, and edge rusher. It resulted in two straight years of production across the board, leading the team in tackles in 2018 and 2019 respectively in addition to 25.5 TFL and 9.5 sacks. Simmons also intercepted 4 passes, broke up 13 others, and forced 4 fumbles over that span. Simply put, he is a defensive playmaker that will wear several hats for a defense if schemed properly. He is a very non-traditional player, thus putting him in to a traditional role would be a massive mistake. Simmons is the player you scheme around, not the other way around.

*I have done more research and re-watching of tape on Simmons than any non-QB I have ever scouted. No, not because I wasn’t sure of him being elite or close to elite, but because he has played in countless roles against countless style-offenses. He plays to a sub 4.4 (which he ran at the combine), his stats are NOT inflated, and what really puts me over the hill on him are the reports I got on his character and intelligence. If you are going to gamble on an athlete at the top of the draft, make sure the intangibles are there. Simmons’ role within this defense is unknown to me – that is above my pay grade.

Do I think it can work? Absolutely. Do I think this kid is going to make plays on a defense that doesn’t have a playmaker? Absolutely. Do I think this kid can cover tight ends, spy the most athletic quarterbacks, and rush the passer? Absolutely. You just have to make sure you aren’t keeping him in one spot. As said in my summary, you need to build the scheme around him, not the other way around. If this new, motivated, young, innovation-hungry scheme is confident they can do with Simmons, pull the trigger. But one must know, he isn’t instinctive or stout against the run. He flashes power on the move but he won’t handle NFL linemen and blocking tight ends well. Put him in the wrong role, he is a day 2 kind of player.


2. Kenneth Murray / Oklahoma / 6’3 – 241

Grade: 87


Summary: Junior entry. Three year starter from Missouri City, Texas. Murray burst on to the scene in 2017, winning the Big 12 Freshman Defensive Player of the Year Award. He was a part of the All-Big 12 team all three years and ended his career as an All American. He started all 42 games of that career and has been the heartbeat to the defense. Murray has been touted for both his leadership and play by coaches and opponents alike. He is the kind of player that any team can stick in to the middle of their defense and know they have a true three down player that will make others around him better. Murray has the physical tools and mental acuity to be a star in the middle.

*It is possible, that if it weren’t for Simmons, Murray would be in the discussion for the 4th overall pick in my eyes. I don’t think he would end up being my guy, but this is the first LB I have really wanted to compare to Patrick Willis or Luke Kuechly. Everything about this kid is what the modern inside linebacker needs. Speed, burst, power, range in coverage, and true leadership. I was pretty high on Devin Bush and Devin White last year, both of which had good rookie years. Murray is better. There are a couple medical red flags that need to be looked in to further.

3. Logan Wilson / Wyoming / 6’2 – 241

Grade: 81


Summary: Fifth year senior from Casper, Wyoming. He arrived at Wyoming as a 185 pound defensive back. After his redshirt year, Wilson moved to linebacker and earned the Mountain West Freshman of the Year Award. He was a three time All Mountain West honoree and finished his career as an All American. The high school track standout blends the new and old age linebacker in to one package. He has the NFL body but can move like a safety. His strengths are on display when he is in space pursuing the action and covering tight ends and backs. He does struggle mightily when taking on blocks, but he is entering the league at the right time as cover linebackers are in high demand and Wilson brings that to the table without giving up too much against the run.

*10 years ago we would have labeled this kid as a linebacker that wasn’t stout enough. To be real, stoutness is less of a factor than it has ever been and the ability to run, chase, and cover are more important. Wilson, with good size, moves really well and was really productive. Smart kid, will start early in his career. Can play multiple spots.


4. Patrick Queen / LSU / 6’0 – 229

Grade: 81


Summary: Junior entry. Two year starter from Ventress, Louisiana. Over the course of his final two years on campus, Queen started just over a full season’s worth of games. By the end of LSU’s championship run he was arguably the top defensive player on the team. He evolved in to a weapon that was all over the field on every down. The NFL’s desire for speed and coverage ability will make Queen a sought after commodity, as his tools in space are near the elite level. He is still growing and evolving as an interior run defender and there are mental lapses that show up from time to time, but this is the kind of linebacker that every team wants now. High upside player.

*I have Queen as a late first round talent as you can see but I can confirm that many don’t see a round 1 guy. As good as he looks at times, the two things NFL coaches and scouts won’t like are the lack of size (especially his short arms) and the fact he was a 1 year starter. And to build off that, he wasn’t the starter at the beginning of the season. He only got in there when he did because Michael Divinity got in some off-field trouble that led to a suspension.

5. Akeem Davis-Gaither / Appalachian State / 6’2 – 224

Grade: 77


Summary: Fifth year senior from Thomasville, North Carolina. Two year starter. Finished 2018 off with a 2nd Team All Sun Belt honor before really taking off as a senior. 2019 Sun Belt Defensive Player of the Year. Davis-Gaither was a team captain and obvious leader of the defense that set the tone each and every week. His speed and burst were just too much to handle for his opponents and it was able to impact the game in several ways. He lined up as an edge rusher and showed plus-blitzing ability, he lined up as an inside run defender and was able to move through traffic well enough, and he lined in space as an effective cover linebacker. He won’t be a schematic fit for several teams but a defense that wants to add speed and versatility but can also keep him out of downhill run stuffing responsibilities will have a high outlook on him.

*I see some Telvin Smith here. Undersized, short reach, slight frame. But this dude can move at a different speed than his opponents and he will evade blockers well. Really fun player to watch but he needs to be protected. I don’t see him impact the game as a blitzer or interior run defender, but he will fly around and cover backs with ease.

6. Troy Dye / Oregon / 6’3 – 231

Grade: 77


Summary: Senior entry from Norco, California. Four year starter that led the Ducks in tackles all four seasons. Three time 2nd Team All Pac 12 defender following his Honorable Mention 2016 season. Dye finished his career near the top of the program’s all time tackles list. He has been a productive player across the board and it showed both on the stat sheet and on tape. He lined up all over the field and got to the action one way or another, proving his intelligence and athleticism. His slight frame will need work if he is going to be playing between the tackles at the next level but his ability to factor in space and potential to be a credible every down linebacker is enough to hide his deficiencies. He is a new-age linebacker that doesn’t give up too much as a thumper.

*Dye was as the top of my senior LB stack last summer. I love this kid’s game and more important, I love his consistency. You know what you’re getting week to week. Dye is another current-age linebacker that will be more effective in space than he is in traffic, but he stays plays tough between the tackles. He won’t be a star, but he will contribute on special teams right away and offer some potential as a starting weak side presence.

7. Malik Harrison / Ohio State / 6'3 - 247

Grade: 77


Summary: Senior entry from Columbus, Ohio. Two year starter that earned 1st Team All Big 10 honors in 2019, Honorable Mention in 2018. Also 3rd Team All American as a senior. Harrison has the NFL-ready size and power presence to factor right away against the run. He can handle NFL offensive lineman with his combination of man-strength and top tier length. Once in the open field, he can really get moving with long stride speed, which will be an asset against athletic tight ends. He came to Ohio State as a former high school quarterback that wanted to play wide receiver for the Buckeyes, so that is the kind of athlete we are talking about here. He could end up projecting to the strong side in a 4-3 front long term as a starter with the option of providing some middle-type roles.

*Harrison is overlooked a bit when it comes to how freaky of an athlete he is. He has some of the best triangle numbers (height + weight + speed) at the position. Remember, this kid came to Ohio State to play wide receiver! When I watched his tape, I saw a lot of rawness, indecision, and inconsistency. But when he did line things up, when he did make proper reads, he looked dominant. Harrison is a high upside, really athletic linebacker that simply needs time to sit back on the depth chart and get acclimated. If it clicks, watch out. Really nice fit for NYG’s situation if they can find a way to get their hands on him round 3 or 4.

8. Jordyn Brooks / Texas Tech / 6’0 – 240

Grade: 77


Summary: Senior entry from Houston, Texas. Four-year starter that led Texas Tech in tackles three of those years. Honorable Mention All Big 12 in 2016, 2017, and 2018 respectively before going on to being named 1st Team All Big 12 and 2nd Team All American in 2019. Brooks is an aggressive, fast, attacking downhill defender that made 20 tackles for loss as a senior. That number was a tad inflated as he was almost-always sent on blitzes, but his athletic ability and closing style make him an attractive prospect. He is quick enough to factor in coverage, he just didn’t have a ton of experience in that role. Brooks has the ability to start in the NFL but at the very least will be a special teams contributor and plus-run defender.

*Brooks is going to be a gamble, I think some teams won’t even look at him. He has very little experience in coverage, he was purely a downhill guy. But there are still plenty of schemes that need the thumper inside and that he is. However he also brings 4.6 speed to the table, a nasty, physical guy. He screams Ravens to me. And I always love how their linebackers perform and help them win games.

9. Anfernee Jennings / Alabama / 6’2 – 256

Grade: 74


Summary: Fifth year senior from Dadeville, Alabama. Three year starter. 1st Team All SEC in 2019. Jennings has been a mainstay on the Tide’s defense for three seasons. He is one of the more versatile players in the class, as he has seen plenty of experience as an edge rusher and inside linebacker. He will likely make a full time move to middle as a two down thumper between the tackles that can add something as a pass rusher on 3rd down. He lacks standout physical traits, most notably when it comes to movement, but he is instinctive and tough. Smart players that have produced the way he has against the highest level of competition find a way on the field at the next level.

*Some are leaving an EDGE position on him, which is fine I guess. But we saw him move to off-ball linebacker a lot in 2019 and he spent the majority of Senior Bowl week there too. Jennings is really smart and really physical, I could see NE being all over this kid draft weekend early day 3. 25+ TFL and 13+ sacks over the past two years coming from Alabama? Can play inside as a thumper, can provide quality pass rush on 3rd down? Sign me up.


10. Willie Gay Jr. / Mississippi State / 6’1 – 243

Grade: 73


Summary: Junior entry from Starkville, Mississippi. Two year starter but only started 11 games total over his career. Missed a significant amount of time in 2019 because of academics. Gay was a explosive rushing quarterback in high school and it is easy to notice just how fast he can play on the defensive side. He is an aggressive downhill force that will make the offense adjust to him. He is not someone that a ball carrier wants to meet in space, as the power Gay brings upon force when he has a head start is as physical as it gets. There will need to be extra screening in regard to his off field habits, but he is a potential game changer if everything checks out and he learns the game a bit more.

*If the Giants are looking to take a risk at LB on day 3, this is the guy to go after. I had glowing game notes on Gay Jr and the comparison of Devin Bush came up multiple times. Short but stout, plus length for his frame, top-shelf speed. There is no denying that NYG needs more juice, more speed at the second level. Gay Jr blew the combine up, he is in the same tier athletically speaking as Simmons. He is as violent a player as you will find. There are a couple character red flags, however, and he only has 11 career starts. If NYG wants to turn their defense around, they are going to have to take a couple chances. This would be taking a chance but I feel good about it in round 4 or 5.

11. Dante Olson / Montana / 6’2 – 237

Grade: 71


Summary: Fifth year senior from Medford, Oregon. Two year starter that certainly made the most of those two years. Set, and the re-set, the all time single season record for tackles in program history. A two time FCS All American and the recipient of the Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year Award. Buck Buchanon Award winner finalist in 2018 and 2019 respectively, given to the top defensive player of the year in FCS. Olson is the son of a coach with really good speed and a finisher’s mentality. He runs around like he’s on fire and with the demands of today’s linebacker in the pros, he could be a sneaky-good fit. He lacks some important agility-based movement skills but he can be molded in to a quality player in time. At the very least, he will be a stud-special teamer.

*Olson won’t impress anybody with his tools, but they are good enough and he has the combination of intelligence and toughness on the field to factor. He would be a reliable backup and quality special teamer. My question, in relation to the Giants, would center around how “multiple” he can be. I see a weak side / middle guy only. Every team has a linebacker like him, but I can see why some would rather go for someone faster. I saw him at Shrine and was impressed, I am keeping him near the top of this cluster of mid to late day 3 linebackers.

12. Shaquille Quarterman / Miami / 6’1 – 234

Grade: 71


Summary: Senior entry from Orange Park, Florida. Four year starter that finished All-ACC every season, including the 1st Team honor in both 2018 and 2019. Quarterman evolved in to the Alpha Male of the Miami defense over his final two years, producing at a high level against both the run and pass. He has the kind of intelligence and on-field IQ that every good linebacker possesses and he knows how to finish. While he is a bit of a throwback that may currently struggle to play in space against the passing game, he still has the potential and even likelihood to make an impact. He shows stiffness but if a scheme can hide that a bit, he will help a defense much more than hurt it. He will be in the league for a long time and likely start at some point.

*A lot of people were juiced up about this kid before and during his freshman season. I feel like he’s been at Miami for a decade. 52 starts, a ton of tackles, multiple schemes, and a true leader of the group. I got to speak with him down at St. Pete during Shrine week and came away really impressed. He won’t add a lot of athleticism to the group though, he isn’t that big, and he may be a 2-down guy. The physical upside isn’t good enough for me to use anything more than a 3rd day pick here.

13. Tanner Muse / Clemson / 6’2 – 227

Grade: 71


Summary: Fifth year senior entry from Belmont, North Carolina. Three year starter that earned 3rd Team All ACC honors in 2018, 1st Team in 2019. Also a 3rd Team All American as a senior. Muse looks too tight to stay at safety, as his hips and feet just don’t move well enough to be trusted in coverage against pro receivers. However he shows potential as a cover linebacker that can handle the running game from the weak side. The winner of the Special Teams Player of the Year Award at Clemson in 2016, Muse brings the kind of straight line speed and power-impact to make an impact in that department at the next level and his role on defense will need to be specific but he has proven to be a factor against the pass if he is protected.

*I have no issues with those that label Muse a late day 2 pick. He has some old school, blue collar in him but don’t look past the fact he is incredibly fast and explosive. Ohio State running back JK Dobbins out-ran Isaiah Simmons in space during the CFB playoffs, Muse caught him from behind. Then he went to the combine and ran a 4.41. Muse is too tight to play safety in my eyes, but he is more than physical enough for linebacker duty and his coverage for the position would be considered a plus. I have this mid to late day 3 grade here, but I’ll say this, his versatility, intelligence, and physical nature could be an exact fit for what NYG plans to do on defense. Look for this kid draft weekend.

14. Davvion Taylor / Colorado / 6’1 – 228

Grade: 70


Summary: Senior entry from Magnolia, Mississippi. Two year starter that spent two seasons in junior college prior to transferring to Colorado in 2018. Finished with Honorable Mention All Pac 12 honors as a senior. Also an accomplished sprinter for the Colorado track team. Taylor has as interesting a background as anyone in the class. Because of religious beliefs, he was not allowed to play in football games Fridays or Saturdays during high school until his senior year. Thus, he was under-recruited and simply did not bank much football experience. After two impressive seasons in junior college, Colorado scooped him up and put him in to the starting lineup 20 games over 2 years. Taylor had a hard time finding a permanent home in regard to position, but his speed was top shelf and he flashed playmaking ability from time to time. He is still very much considered a developmental player that is incredibly raw, but he has elite special teams potential and could mold in to a quality weak side, space-happy linebacker down the road.

*One of the more unique prospects in the class considering his background and tools. Many are putting this kid in to the day 2 tier because of his strength and speed. He is an excellent run and chase guy but I don’t see instincts or flow to the action. I thought he looked out of place at the Senior Bowl. While I do respect the upside here that stems from his frame and speed, he is a project.

15. Jacob Phillips / LSU / 6’3 – 229

Grade: 70


Summary: Senior entry from Nashville, Tennessee. Two year starter that finished second on the team in tackles in 2018, first in 2019. After sitting behind Devin White for two years, a future top 10 pick, Phillips took over the job in the middle of the Tigers defense and excelled. He was a 5-star recruit coming out of high school and flashed over his two seasons. The straight line speed, attractive frame, and sure tackling is sure to catch the eyes of defensive coaches that want to try and develop a player for a year or two. He shows weaknesses in coverage but he physical upside is there to warrant the idea he could improve enough in that area. He is a day three pick that has the upside of a starter, ideally in a scheme that can let him run around and chase.

*Phillips isn’t in the same tier as a some of these recent LSU linebackers, but I think he is a reliable bet to provide quality depth and special teams play. He plays smart, he works hard, he is very coachable. Don’t forget he was a 5-star recruit and even though one could argue he had an underwhelming career, he was an important piece these past two seasons. Not a good cover linebacker but he will be reliable against the run.

16. Mykal Walker / Fresno State: 70
17. Francis Bernard / Utah: 70
18. Evan Weaver / California: 70
19. Cam Brown / Penn State: 69
20. Jordan Mack / Virginia: 69
21. Khaleke Hudson / Michigan: 69
22. Justin Strnad / Wake Forest: 69
23. Michael Divinity / LSU: 69
24. Michael Pinckney / Miami: 68
25. Jordan Glasgow / Michigan: 68


NYG APPROACH

For the record, I could talk about the possible Simmons selection for an hour straight, it is fascinating. I won’t go too deep here, as we can discuss further in the comments, but I will echo what I stated earlier. NYG can certainly go for him at #4 and I won’t say a negative thing about it. But so much of his potential, even more so than other prospects, will be based on how the team would use him. Build the scheme around him, do not try to fit him in to a scheme. This coaching staff yelled from the top of the mountains that they want to be able to change their scheme week to week to exploit the opponent’s weaknesses. Simmons is quite literally the kind of player that can change week to week based on what the team needs, and he can do so at a high level. However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college.

As for the rest of the LB group, whether they draft Simmons or not, speed needs to be added. Connelly, Martinez, and Mayo can get the job done against the run but they are going to get exposed when true speed and coverage are needed. If you need to convert 3rd and 5, attack those guys and a good passing game will almost always come out on top especially on a team that lacks quality pass rushers. This draft’s LB group as a whole is a little thin after those top 7-8 guys. Because it is such a scheme-based position, NYG doesn’t have to rush here. They can be patient, wait for value (even if it is round 7), and add the athleticism there.
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If we do not trust the staff we just hired to maximize  
twostepgiants : 4/3/2020 11:29 am : link
Talent

Then we have bigger problems then who we pick at 4 and are about to waste another 3 season at least.

RE: If we do not trust the staff we just hired to maximize  
beatrixkiddo : 4/3/2020 11:31 am : link
In comment 14858164 twostepgiants said:
Quote:
Talent

Then we have bigger problems then who we pick at 4 and are about to waste another 3 season at least.


Bingo. I have full confidence until they prove otherwise. If you are of the opinion you don’t trust this brand new staff, we are fu*^%ed, and will be for a long time.
But..  
FatMan in Charlotte : 4/3/2020 11:35 am : link
we have posters who watched GAME TAPE - of full games - to come to the conclusion Simmons intentionally avoids contact and is a product of the system!!

Can you pass along your tape to those guys:)
depends on what judge and Graham think of where and how Simmons  
TMS : 4/3/2020 11:41 am : link
will fit in their defense. Otherwise trade down for additional picks later to Fix something else. Don't take a player for need, get two or more later.
RE: RE: If we do not trust the staff we just hired to maximize  
Giantsfan79 : 4/3/2020 11:45 am : link
In comment 14858166 beatrixkiddo said:
Quote:
In comment 14858164 twostepgiants said:


Quote:


Talent

Then we have bigger problems then who we pick at 4 and are about to waste another 3 season at least.




Bingo. I have full confidence until they prove otherwise. If you are of the opinion you don’t trust this brand new staff, we are fu*^%ed, and will be for a long time.


I'm glad you still have blind faith and trust in the Giants front office decision making on new coaches. Forgive me if the McAdoo and Shurmur experiences temper my blind faith in new coaching staffs.
Simmons "If you put him here; there ....  
Manny in CA : 4/3/2020 11:49 am : link

He gets crushed" - hardly an endorsement for a 1st round pick.

I think Simmons'  
allstarjim : 4/3/2020 11:50 am : link
Bust potential or risk is very small.

Quite simply, he's too smart, too fast, too long, too instinctual to not have success in the NFL. The question isn't "will Simmons be good in the NFL", it's, "how freaking good is Simmons going to be in the NFL?"

Sy, I was looking forward to this one, and had a sneaking suspicion you were going to love Simmons, because of previous write-ups I've read from you, most notably and memorably your eval of Myles Jack.

Needless to say, I couldn't agree more. And spot on with using Simmons in a variety of ways. Sure, you could just put Simmons at ILB and leave him there, but why would you? It would be malpractice! You have a guy like that, you are able to throw all kinds of looks at the defense.

Kudos to the poster who said he's like the queen on the chessboard. That's a great analogy...would be even better if there wasn't another highly regarded linebacker in this draft NAMED Queen, but great description nonetheless.

And one thing for the doubters that you touched on and something I also have mentioned here... look what Kyler Murray did to us last year. Look what Lamar Jackson is doing to everyone. Pat Mahomes, Russell Wilson, DeShaun Watson...Simmons is your answer to those guys, in a league that doesn't really have many, or any, guys like him.
I'm confused. Simmons is so great but he's not great at any 1 thing?  
Victor in CT : 4/3/2020 11:57 am : link
"However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college.."
And this to me is the most important: "doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college." This isn't college.

To me, nothing to do with OL vs. LB need. I just can't see taking a player like this with the #4 pick in the draft.
RE: Simmons is such high risk, high reward  
giants#1 : 4/3/2020 12:08 pm : link
In comment 14858108 Jim in Forest Hills said:
Quote:
Do we think the coaching staff can execute maximizing his ability? No one knows. Sy's review cemented that he will be a hotly debated topic until he suits up and plays.

I don't think I want that type of risk personally. Not at #4. I'd almost rather have a tone setter like Murray.


I don't think he's boom or bust. I think his "floor" is as a guy like Cory Littleton, solid coverage LB with sideline-to-sideline speed. But you probably need a coaching staff with creative schemes and even strong in game adjustments to maximize his potential (which is sky-high). He'd have All Pro potential under BB (or a few others), but who knows what we have in Judge/Graham.
Sy'56  
M.S. : 4/3/2020 12:08 pm : link


Your reviews are a ray of sunshine. Much appreciated.

Question:

Given that you feel Isaiah Simmons will get crushed if he plays "routinely" at ILB, EDGE and Safety, is he a natural WILL in the NFL?

Or, a team must continually move him around play-to-play, game-to-game?
Sy...  
Hades07 : 4/3/2020 12:17 pm : link
Would you mind giving your take on the kid from WF Strnad? Thanks
wait people here blindly trust a rookie HC and Graham as a DC  
GiantsFan84 : 4/3/2020 12:18 pm : link
Graham who hasn't exactly had top notch defenses in his career to utilize a very unique player on defense? (see below link about his usage of Minkah Fitzpatrick) and judge who has coached ST and WRs?

we did not hire bill b to be our coach. or nick saban. we hired joe judge (and the track record of former new england coaches under bill is VERY poor). mike vrabel was not a coach on the pats for those wondering.

so yes i'm very concerned about the giants drafting this player because i 100% agree with Sy about simmons limitations. and if simmonns is in the wrong system he will not be this transcendent player like some here think he is.

i'm not saying joe judge will suck. but this player is not someone that is easy to coach or develop a plan for. and i'd hate to see this team use the 4th pick in an extremely talented draft on someone they don't know how to use properly.

and don't give me this crap like they have a plan for him. shurmur said the same shit about barkley and we saw how great that plan was.
Link - ( New Window )
Appreciate your work Sy  
aGiantGuy : 4/3/2020 12:27 pm : link
Again, some of you are focusing too much on the weaknesses. If you put him at ILB, the offense doesn’t know if he’s going to play the hook, the deep middle, the hook to curl, manning up the Y, The H, the HB, or the slot.

If you put him at edge, the offense doesn’t know if he’s rushing, spying, Manning the TE, apexing out on any motion, or just playing flat to curl zone.

If you him at safety, you don’t know if he’s blitzing, robbing the curl, playing the deep half, the deep third, spying, or manning up.

The point I think Sy is trying to make is that the defense needs to move him around to take away certain strengths of the offense, making them one dimensional on a play by play basis.

If he sits at one position, then the offense is going to try and attack him. You can only attack him by pulling some guards, down blocking a te and running down his throat, but an offense can’t attack him if they don’t know where he’ll be.

It also helps that the rest of his teammates are already great run defenders.
I just hope Detroit trades out or picks Okudah  
Rjanyg : 4/3/2020 12:34 pm : link
Simmons is the type of defender our defense needs. He can do it all except play NT/DT.

I respect the crowd that says he isn't a LB, but we have to understand that the NFL has changed and we need a guy with Simmons' skill set. Pass rushers are premium and hard to find, and it is hard to find a guy that can wreck blocking schemes. Finding a guy that can play man to man on anybody and knows how to take angles and open field tackle, also knows how to blitz and spy, is just as hard.

He will be a great Giant....if he is available.
GiantsFan84  
Keaton028 : 4/3/2020 12:36 pm : link
Don’t we kind of have to trust the rookie HC and new DC? They are a complete unknown and without knowing what schemes they will operate, how can we label them as incompetent and not trust them? We literally know nothing about Judge. If your gripe is with that so be it, but to not trust them on selecting a draft pick to fit into a scheme we have no idea they are running, seems futile.
Excellent writeup on Simmons  
AcesUp : 4/3/2020 12:46 pm : link
It echos my thoughts on him. He's worth the 4th pick if your coaching staff is committed to using him like they used him at Clemson. If you're just plugging him in at off ball LB or even the standard LB/S hybrid that is ubiquitous in today's game? You're not going to get your money's worth.

If the FO is meeting with the defensive coaches and they're coming to the table with a real plan for him...I'd pull the trigger unless they've got a blue chip grade at LT.
If Jennings lasts to 99  
jeff57 : 4/3/2020 12:58 pm : link
He’s pick an excellent pick. A Joe Schobert inside/outside type.
Blind trust - what are you guys talking about?  
twostepgiants : 4/3/2020 1:04 pm : link
I’ve been a pretty harsh critic of this team since 2013.

But you know we don’t impact what’s happening on the field right?

It doesn’t matter whether or not You have trust in a HC and staff the minute you hire them. Because they are empowered as HC and the staff to make decisions.

Us sitting home saying we have “blind trust” or “trust” in them matters not a whim

What’s the logic here?

Lets take the lesser talent player (and no OL is getting a higher than 89 grade) to fill a “need” so the coaching staff can’t muck it up?

How far exactly do you think that will take you? Leaser talent players with a bad staff that can’t scheme to any advantage?

That’s how you undermine your HC and staff and you never give them the tools they need to build their vision and then you fire them 3 years for losing.

That’s how bad teams stay bad.

We hired a HC and staff. Trust maters not. They are the decision makers and we sink or swim based on those decisions.

You win by supporting the people that you hired with the things they need to succeed, then you judge them on the results,

Joe Judge said he wanted to a build a team that adapts to the team he is playing and can use different schemes week in and week out,

Isaiah Simmons seems to be exactly the type of rare talent that could be the face of that scheme.

He is likely to be the highest graded player on the board if he is there when we pick and he happens to fil a need we have on this team for years and he happens to support the vision of the HC for this team. .

We should thank our lucky stars if Simmons is on the board at 4 when we pick and we should take him and run and see if Judge can actually build his vision.

That’s how you win. And then you hope it all works out.
Giants coaches should be talking to Brent Venable  
Rick in Dallas : 4/3/2020 1:08 pm : link
About how they used Simmons. He would be the first defensive player on our team that other teams have to game plan for when they play us.
Want No Part of Simmons at 4  
WillVAB : 4/3/2020 1:16 pm : link
The coverage point is cute but he’ll get bulldozed in the run game in the NFCE. Really looking forward to Simmons on his back and Zeke doing the feed me bullshit.

Simmons is too risky at 4, especially for a GM on the hot seat. You don’t take “if you use him right” guys top 5. You take guys top 5 that you know exactly what they’re going to be for your franchise.
RE: Almost sounds like you are  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:34 pm : link
In comment 14858031 barens said:
Quote:
talking about Jessie Armstead with you're description of Quarterman(I know I'm reaching with that one). But undersized, not super fast coming out of college, but ridiculously productive.

I feel like that dude, if he were on Alabama or Clemson, he'd be thought of in a much better light.


I respect the comparison - at the same time I would say Armstead may have slightly less success in today's NFL.

Disagree that he would be graded higher coming from Bama/Clemson . He is a lesser prospect that BJ Goodson, who was a 4th rounder.
RE: Sy  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:35 pm : link
In comment 14858035 ryanmkeane said:
Quote:
knowing what you know about new Giants coaching staff, gun to your head do they take Simmons or the OT?


I'm gonna wait to answer that one - I will get to it though before there draft.
RE: Comparisons  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:37 pm : link
In comment 14858042 UGADawgs7 said:
Quote:
How can you compare Murray to Keuchly and Willis? 2 of the best linebackers who have played the game in the last 15 years yet, Simmons is 1 when you say he can’t defend the run or go against nfl linemen. Color me confused. A keuchly/wills comp is a perennial all pro guy at the Mike position. Not only that Murray has elite blitzing ability.
Murray is a plug and play and can also play multiple positions. He can definitely defend Tight Ends, backs and blitz. He’s also a much more physical and violent tackler.
What would Simmons be compared to?


Because I think he can have a similar career to those 2, thats how.

I did NOT say Simmons "can't" defend the run. He is actually a weapon against the run when it comes to run and chase. He has more range than any LB, he maintainability good power on the move, he doesn't miss much, and he has a loose lower half to adjust late.

Murray is decent in coverage - he is not Simmons there. Not close.
RE: Murray measured 6'2 at combine not 6'3  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:40 pm : link
In comment 14858089 shyster said:
Quote:
Not trying to nitpick but all the attention directed at Simmons' frame has emphasized the significance of what might appear to be small differences.

And Murray's 6'2" 241 is significantly different than Simmons' 6'4" 238. Much more in keeping with the history of successful NFL defenders.

Murray also had a great combine himself.



Murray measure 6'2 and 4/8
Simmons measured 6'3 and 5/8

They are one inch apart height wise.

Simmons arms measured 5/8 of an inch longer than Murray
RE: Thank you Sy  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:43 pm : link
In comment 14858131 DonnieD89 said:
Quote:
I really like your write up about Malik Harrison. He does seem to be a do it all type linebacker and a leader. If Simmons is not the choice that #4, do you think he could coexist with the current linebackers that are on the giants roster?


I do - and I think it is a great fit. Won't be rushed in to action right away, let him develop a bit. Take advantage of is tools when you can - put him in the starting lineup as soon as 2021.
Thank you Sy!  
SFGFNCGiantsFan : 4/3/2020 1:45 pm : link
Much appreciated. And count me as someone who wants Simmons @ 4.
RE: But..  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:45 pm : link
In comment 14858169 FatMan in Charlotte said:
Quote:
we have posters who watched GAME TAPE - of full games - to come to the conclusion Simmons intentionally avoids contact and is a product of the system!!

Can you pass along your tape to those guys:)


Simmons avoids contact because he can, not because he is soft. Remember, the point of playing LB and S is to AVOID getting touched by blockers. Simmons is not stout, I will say that, but he plays hard an physical. I have several examples of him engaging and shedding blockers via his twitch, length, and effective hand work.
To be fair  
aGiantGuy : 4/3/2020 1:46 pm : link
The counterpoint is that we already have dynamic players on offense and getting a good tackle makes Barkley and Jones better.

It works flipside though because Simmons makes the whole defense better. How many times are we going to cover all the routes outside just to have a TE torch us in the middle. How many times did Leonard Williams get a quick beat to the qb just for him to dump it off in less than 3 seconds.

A tackle makes the offense better and Simmons makes the d better, the question is projected total impact. Which I can’t answer
I have zero skill in evaluating talent but here’s the problem ...  
Spider56 : 4/3/2020 1:48 pm : link
I see 4 major positions of real need going into the draft ... center, RT, FS and ER. If you take Simmons at #4, and don’t have a real 3rd rounder, how do we fix the 4 positions?
RE: I'm confused. Simmons is so great but he's not great at any 1 thing?  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:49 pm : link
In comment 14858204 Victor in CT said:
Quote:
"However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college.."
And this to me is the most important: "doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college." This isn't college.

To me, nothing to do with OL vs. LB need. I just can't see taking a player like this with the #4 pick in the draft.


The thing with Simmons - it is so much a scheme based thing. Graham and Juge want to be able to change their scheme weekly. 3-4 this week / 4-3 next week / 6-2 the week after. They want a guy that can blanket TEs this series but spy the QB next series, and then cover a slot WR the next.

Problem is, those guys don't exist. Schemes are limited to what they have on the field. Simmons is the rare guy that can do it all, and he can make plays from multiple roles. How many in the NFL can do this? 2? 3? It is a rare talent, rare potential

But the statement stands - if you peg him in to one hole (ILB, EDGE, S) you aren't maximizing him and you should not take him high.
Sy, no player comps I get it  
Jim in Forest Hills : 4/3/2020 1:50 pm : link
but if you had to with Simmons who? Im trying to imagine him playing. Derwin James a good comp? Kam Chancellor?
RE: Sy'56  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:52 pm : link
In comment 14858226 M.S. said:
Quote:


Your reviews are a ray of sunshine. Much appreciated.

Question:

Given that you feel Isaiah Simmons will get crushed if he plays "routinely" at ILB, EDGE and Safety, is he a natural WILL in the NFL?

Or, a team must continually move him around play-to-play, game-to-game?


In this kind of NE-type scheme, I think he plays BUCK (pass rushing LB that needs to play SAM when they alter the front)

This is a role that can move him closer to the tight end, a role that can allow him to rush the passer, a role that can allow him to pursue in space.

It is also a role that allows him to drop in to SS role when they want to send Peppers on a blitz, it is a role that can put him near the slot when they want to stunt / cross up front, it is a role that can have him spy the QB with the SS taking over the TE in coverage.

Again, slightly above my pay grade - but that is my initial thought.
RE: Sy...  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:54 pm : link
In comment 14858242 Hades07 said:
Quote:
Would you mind giving your take on the kid from WF Strnad? Thanks


Here is my Summary on Strnad:

Summary: Fifth year senior entry from Palm Harbor, Florida. Two year starter that earned Honorable Mention All ACC honors in 2018 and an injury shortened 2019. Strnad is a new-age linebacker that has good size and length, good speed, and plus-instincts. He can be a really solid pass defender without giving up too much against the run, something every team is looking for now. He isn’t overly stout but he has proven to still be effective against the inside run with his ability to sneak by and under blockers. He can be a starting weak side linebacker within a year or two while he continues to enhance his size and power.

Have him in the round 6/7 area - but a guy that if he is in the right scheme could start
Well said Sy  
aGiantGuy : 4/3/2020 1:54 pm : link
If that’s accurate, and they actually get the horses to run that scheme. Whether it’s Simmons or Willie Gay, this season, if there is a season, will be much more entertaining scheme wise than the last three.
RE: To be fair  
DonnieD89 : 4/3/2020 1:55 pm : link
In comment 14858325 aGiantGuy said:
Quote:
The counterpoint is that we already have dynamic players on offense and getting a good tackle makes Barkley and Jones better.

It works flipside though because Simmons makes the whole defense better. How many times are we going to cover all the routes outside just to have a TE torch us in the middle. How many times did Leonard Williams get a quick beat to the qb just for him to dump it off in less than 3 seconds.

A tackle makes the offense better and Simmons makes the d better, the question is projected total impact. Which I can’t answer


+1

The Giants are very far from being a championship contender. They have to build the pieces and it’s not gonna take one to two years. Either side could make an impact. The question is, who knows.
RE: RE: I'm confused. Simmons is so great but he's not great at any 1 thing?  
Victor in CT : 4/3/2020 1:55 pm : link
In comment 14858327 Sy'56 said:
Quote:
In comment 14858204 Victor in CT said:


Quote:


"However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and However, if they put him at ILB routinely, he will get crushed because his instincts are average at best and he plays high. If they put him at EDGE routinely, he will get crushed because he doesn’t have an array of rush moves and he doesn’t use his hands well in that situation. If they put him at safety routinely, he will get crushed because he is high hipped and doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college.."
And this to me is the most important: "doesn’t play more athletic than NFL receivers like he did in college." This isn't college.

To me, nothing to do with OL vs. LB need. I just can't see taking a player like this with the #4 pick in the draft.



The thing with Simmons - it is so much a scheme based thing. Graham and Juge want to be able to change their scheme weekly. 3-4 this week / 4-3 next week / 6-2 the week after. They want a guy that can blanket TEs this series but spy the QB next series, and then cover a slot WR the next.

Problem is, those guys don't exist. Schemes are limited to what they have on the field. Simmons is the rare guy that can do it all, and he can make plays from multiple roles. How many in the NFL can do this? 2? 3? It is a rare talent, rare potential

But the statement stands - if you peg him in to one hole (ILB, EDGE, S) you aren't maximizing him and you should not take him high.


Gotcha. Thanks again for these reports. and the Q&A
RE: Sy, no player comps I get it  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 1:57 pm : link
In comment 14858328 Jim in Forest Hills said:
Quote:
but if you had to with Simmons who? Im trying to imagine him playing. Derwin James a good comp? Kam Chancellor?


Derwin James is my best guess there. Some have mentioned Darious Leonard - who I had a top 10 overall grade on - but I think Simmons has more versatility and Leonard is better playing through traffic.
The amazing  
Professor Falken : 4/3/2020 1:59 pm : link
thing about the Derwin James comparison is that Simmons is 20 lbs. heavier and faster.
DG  
ryanmkeane : 4/3/2020 2:02 pm : link
has been pretty on point with 1st round analysis. I'd want to wonder why they like Wirfs above the rest of the OL (if that is in fact the case)
Thank you, Sy!  
TC : 4/3/2020 2:09 pm : link
Another great review!

Two guys I didn't notice before the draft process got underway were Logan Wilson and Tanner Muse. Both impressed me with different aspects of their game, and I had hoped they might remain sufficiently under the radar to last until the mid rounds.

I have neither your knowledge or skills to evaluate prospects, and I spend only a tiny amount of time watching mainly highlight videos, so I'm getting only a small slice of their total play. But I like both in the roll you recommend.

One of the things that stood out to me on the highlight videos was the physicality of both players. Wilson is a banger, and was a tackling machine, so I'm surprised you saw he wasn't as adept at shedding blocks.

Muse has the speed, and though lighter is also physical. The other thing Muse seems to offer is possibly better ball skills than might be seen on other LB's. I didn't check his stats, but on the interceptions I saw, it looks like he's blessed with good hands, and could become a ball hawk over the middle of the field.
RE: Appreciate your work Sy  
Coach Red Beaulieu : 4/3/2020 2:39 pm : link
In comment 14858258 aGiantGuy said:
Quote:
Again, some of you are focusing too much on the weaknesses. If you put him at ILB, the offense doesn’t know if he’s going to play the hook, the deep middle, the hook to curl, manning up the Y, The H, the HB, or the slot.

If you put him at edge, the offense doesn’t know if he’s rushing, spying, Manning the TE, apexing out on any motion, or just playing flat to curl zone.

If you him at safety, you don’t know if he’s blitzing, robbing the curl, playing the deep half, the deep third, spying, or manning up.

The point I think Sy is trying to make is that the defense needs to move him around to take away certain strengths of the offense, making them one dimensional on a play by play basis.

If he sits at one position, then the offense is going to try and attack him. You can only attack him by pulling some guards, down blocking a te and running down his throat, but an offense can’t attack him if they don’t know where he’ll be.

It also helps that the rest of his teammates are already great run defenders.

It would be fun to watch him used right. Kind of how LT lined up anywhere, but it was primarily on passing downs. Simmons can line up anywhere in the back 7 on any passing and run/pass down.
RE: RE: Sy...  
Hades07 : 4/3/2020 2:49 pm : link
In comment 14858333 Sy'56 said:
Quote:
In comment 14858242 Hades07 said:


Quote:


Would you mind giving your take on the kid from WF Strnad? Thanks



Here is my Summary on Strnad:

Summary: Fifth year senior entry from Palm Harbor, Florida. Two year starter that earned Honorable Mention All ACC honors in 2018 and an injury shortened 2019. Strnad is a new-age linebacker that has good size and length, good speed, and plus-instincts. He can be a really solid pass defender without giving up too much against the run, something every team is looking for now. He isn’t overly stout but he has proven to still be effective against the inside run with his ability to sneak by and under blockers. He can be a starting weak side linebacker within a year or two while he continues to enhance his size and power.

Have him in the round 6/7 area - but a guy that if he is in the right scheme could start
thank you
Thx Sy  
Torrag : 4/3/2020 3:14 pm : link
Your commentary on Simmons is spot on. A unicorn prospect you have to make the centerpiece or you won’t get your money’s worth.

The Logan Wilson grade is an eye opener. I haven’t seen much of him but will make it my business too.

Funny how the  
tyrik13 : 4/3/2020 3:16 pm : link
One that are low on Simmons are trying to find every excuse in the book to justify not taking a playmaker who is one of the highest grades players Sy ever rated and his tape shows it. Why are y’all so content with seeing potentially great players making plays for other teams but not ours? That shit is just puzzling to me. You take Simmons at 4 unless Chase Young is there, plain and simple, put that man in the field and watch him work. Go OT in the 2nd because none of these cats even compare to the top OTs in next years class, not even a little bit. Stop settling for second best and mediocrity. Simmons will lockdown what we’ve never been able to
Do the last 10 years: stopping them damn TEs, the RBs coming out of the backfield, and everything else in between. I’m tired of seeing a Blake Jarwin look like got damn Tony Gonzales because our LBers are mediocre, or a Tarik Cohen gash the hell outta us to a tune of 200 yards from scrimmage because we couldn’t cover him out in the flat. Smdh I truly don’t understand why a lot of y’all always want to settle for the lesser player when there’s a potential gold jacket player there for the taking.
I like Simmons  
Sy'56 : 4/3/2020 3:28 pm : link
But nobody can dispute taking OT if the grade is there. It is ok if you don't see an OT in the 85+ range, it can be difference of opinion.

But if you like an OT - it is hard to argue against NYG taking one. Not gonna say where I lean just yet - but you can't say either opinion is wrong.
Because I don't see Simmons  
JonC : 4/3/2020 3:30 pm : link
as a potential gold jacket player.
RE: I have zero skill in evaluating talent but here’s the problem ...  
allstarjim : 4/3/2020 3:41 pm : link
In comment 14858326 Spider56 said:
Quote:
I see 4 major positions of real need going into the draft ... center, RT, FS and ER. If you take Simmons at #4, and don’t have a real 3rd rounder, how do we fix the 4 positions?


I still think there's work to be done in free agency. However, I think you can argue these.

Cam Fleming and Nick Gates are good competition for each other at RT, and you add in the middle rounds another tackle. I do expect some kind of trade up with perhaps a 5th and a 7th or two, to add another 4th rounder. At least something like that.

You can get your C in the 2nd round, I think there's value there and that's the direction I would take if the draft falls the way I believe it will, unless there is a significant value. C is the most pressing need, IMO.

FS arguably isn't that much of a need, especially with the add of Simmons, because you can play him there some of the time (sparingly), but Julian Love has played there and I think the coaches (and I) believe he is good there, and will be the starter.

As far as Edge...I don't think the story is over there. I expect something to happen in free agency, and despite the recent story to the contrary, perhaps a reunion with Golden, OR they make a splash for Clowney...still could happen. Belichick in recent years has gone for mid-priced veteran guys at that spot, Judge may have the same philosophy. There are guys still on the market that fit that mold...Jabaal Sheard, who has experience with the Patriots would fit that mold. Ezekiel Ansah still on the market. Vinny Curry, Everson Griffen...I know these aren't exciting names in most cases but the Giants can dip into that pool of talent. A name that might be a fit on a one-year deal that would at the very least provide some passion and leadership on the field is Terrell Suggs. I know he's long...but he is always on a winner. And keep in mind that there will be plenty of situations where Simmons is going to come off the Edge as well. When this kid gets some additional coaching and learns some pass-rushing techniques and moves, and gets better with his hand play...he could actually be a terror off the Edge. I said it before, I'm not worried about his weight...those big lineman have to get their hands on him first...good luck with that, because he'll just beat them with speed.

I definitely covet some of the OTs at the top of the first round in this draft. However, I always remind myself that the draft is more than about next year. If you have a conviction that a guy is an All-Pro level talent, like I have on Simmons, do you pass on that for an OT that you think will be really good, perhaps also even All-Pro, but not the upside and impact to your team that Simmons will have? I'm not sure there is a wrong answer, but maybe a more right one.

I think Simmons is the right pick at 4, but again, if we could move down and get a top OT and more picks in the first, second, and/or third rounds, I think you can improve your team a lot that way too.

I still believe you win in the NFL by having the right superstars, elite level players, on your team. They are just better than what the other teams are going to have. So if I have the opportunity to get a SUPERB talent over several quality starter level talents, I am probably taking the superb talent. Probably.

I have the same conviction that Simmons is a game-wrecker as I had on Saquon Barkley. I think he's special. In fact, I think because of his versatility and the fact that he is so rare of a player, I'd take him over Chase Young. That's my belief on him.
If Sy is right about his ranking and Washington and Detroit  
gidiefor : Mod : 4/3/2020 3:41 pm : link
both pick Defense there a very good chance Simmons won't be there when the Giants pick anyway. Patricia certainly knows what to do with him.
There's a group of players near the top of this Draft...  
Torrag : 4/3/2020 3:43 pm : link
all clumped together with similar grades. No one should be angry so long as we Draft one of them. That said when you insert need and roster impact OT is at the top of the list imo. If you have the grade on them. I do.
and I don't want to spend a #4 overall pick  
JonC : 4/3/2020 3:47 pm : link
on a player to cover TEs and RBs, especially when 1) Okudah might be there for us, and CB is more valuable than a ILB/FS and 2) I'd rather gamble on a OT at #4 than gamble on Simmons and fill a huge hole at the same time.
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