Friday Reading

Giants

Tanier B/R: Giants Will Implode If Franchise Tries to Hit the Gas on Rebuilding Plan

“If you hate the way general manager Dave Gettleman runs the Giants when he's taking his time, just wait until you see what he does when he's in a hurry.
Per Jay Glazer of The Athletic, Gettleman is suddenly on the hot seat. "He presented a plan [to Giants ownership] for how he'll turn it around in a year," Glazer wrote in a mailbag column early in the week. "That needs to happen. If it doesn't happen, he'll be gone, and rightfully so. If he doesn't follow through, it's time to go." 
Gettleman in win-now mode? Does Gettleman even have a win-now mode? If he does, it must look like that sign behind the counter of the local diner: "Drink coffee: Do stupid things faster and with more energy!"

Let's take a deep breath. "Turning things around" probably doesn't mean Giants ownership expects Daniel Jones to turn into Patrick Mahomes or Lamar Jackson and lead the team on a Super Bowl run in his second season. (And if it does, hoo-boy.) It means ownership expects to see some forward progress after a 12-36 record in the last three seasons, two of them on Gettleman's watch. After all, the Eagles won the NFC East with a 9-7 record and a receiving corps plucked from a tailgate-party pickup game last year; after three offseasons of building, it's not unreasonable to expect the Giants to be competitive in such a weak division.
Unfortunately, their roster is nowhere near ready to compete with the Eagles or Cowboys. And trying to turbocharge the rebuild will only leave the Giants right back where they started.
Gettleman is an easy punching bag for columns like this because he comes across as the father-in-law who calls you every time he forgets his own Wi-Fi password. (It's an "o" not a "0"? Why does that even matter?) Gettleman has been in the NFL for over 30 years, once scouted Bruce Smith and was one of the architects of 2007 and 2011 Giants Super Bowl teams, all facts that he manages to slip into most press conferences. He has an eye for talent and a no-nonsense approach to cap management. But he believes the best way to build a champion is to start with the defensive line, then the offensive line, then the defensive line some more, until eventually the team is so overpowering in the trenches that it can get away with being merely OK everywhere else. That approach, when it works at all, takes time. 

Gettleman's offseason has been a mixed bag. The Giants franchise-tagged run-thumping defensive tackle Leonard Williams, whom they traded for last year. (If you ever meet someone as infatuated with you as Gettleman is with Williams, marry them and never let them go.) Former Titans defensive tackle Austin Johnson was added for good measure, while Blake Martinez, an old-fashioned middle linebacker with coverage deficiencies, arrived from Green Bay to replace Alec Ogletree, an old-fashioned middle linebacker with coverage deficiencies. 

Former Panthers cornerback James Bradberry upgrades the secondary, which is a good thing, because several members of last year's Giants secondary played as if someone selected them before the snap on Madden and then dropped the controller to get a snack. Kyler Fackrell adds a jolt of pass rush, and Dion Lewis provides a better alternative when Saquon Barkley is off the field than wishing Barkley was on the field. On the downside, Mike Remmers' departure for the Chiefs leaves a void in the middle of the offensive line, which is not the sort of void Gettleman prefers to create.
Add an impact player with the fourth pick in the draft, and the Giants will come out a little bit ahead this offseason. But 4-12 teams are supposed to come out at least a little bit ahead. It's hard to find evidence of the grand one-year plan the organization wants to see.
Ownership's impatience is understandable. After years of trying to relive 2007 and 2011, the Giants have lurched from Tom Coughlin to Ben McAdoo to Pat Shurmur to Joe Judge; from Eli Manning to Jones; and from Jerry Reese to Gettleman, since 2015. Along the way, they have slowly moved away from their keep-it-in-the-family philosophy, with Gettleman as the last guy in the room telling old Coughlin stories.

Frustration with Gettleman within the organization almost certainly extends beyond the team's win-loss record. Top brass must wonder why a purported infrastructure-builder built so little infrastructure after two full seasons. An organization that loves to project uber-professionalism can't be pleased when Gettleman's press conferences start to sound like a sweaty nightclub comic is getting frazzled by hecklers. Ownership chose to pair Gettleman with the inexperienced Judge instead of making a clean sweep. Now the Giants run the risk of being pulled in two different directions.
Judge is a Bill Belichick disciple, and for better or worse, Belichick disciples tend to take over personnel control and turn their organizations into bootleg-brand Patriots. He sounded like he was in square-one rebuilding mode with his blank-depth-chart rhetoric at the combine. Judge has time to wait. Gettleman doesn't. That will inevitably cause friction. 
If the Giants hope for some quick turnaround, their best model would be last year's Titans. Barkley could play the role of Derrick Henry, Jones could conceivably handle Ryan Tannehill duties, Judge could impersonate Mike Vrabel and Gettleman could merrily stack both lines with all the hog mollies he can find. But even that is more of a two- or three-year plan than a quick fix: The Giants are just too thin in the secondary, on the offensive line and at edge-rusher to turn into some smashmouth powerhouse overnight. 
The good news for the Giants is that if Gettleman even owns a panic button, he probably needs to call tech support to teach him how to press it. He could have tried to assemble some massive compensation package for Jadeveon Clowney but didn't. He might still trade for disgruntled Jaguars hog molly Yannick Ngakoue but is at least biding his time. The franchise could try to speed things up by selecting a receiver like Jerry Jeudy or CeeDee Lamb instead of a more Gettleman-like choice on the offensive line or defense, but the Giants cannot go wrong either way, because they have needs everywhere. 

Gettleman is too committed to the way he does things to start overspending or taking huge risks. But adding a false urgency to the team's situation will only create false expectations and encourage shortcuts and missteps. The Giants' priorities this season should be to implement Judge's program, verify that Jones can grow into the Eli clone they hope he will be and upgrade as many positions as possible—not try to sneak into the playoffs at the expense of greater long-term goals.
If Judge and Jones deliver in even a modest way, the Giants should "turn things around" by climbing into the neighborhood of .500 anyway.
And if they don't, at least the next general manager will have yet another top-five draft pick to work with.”

https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/2884483-giants-will-implode-if-franchise-tries-to-hit-the-gas-on-rebuilding-plan.amp.html

WR

Schwartz NYP: NFL Draft 2020: Giants could add a WR for depth purposes
https://nypost.com/2020/04/03/nfl-draft-2020-giants-could-add-a-wr-for-depth-purposes/amp/

TE
Bloomquist El Paso Times: Tomlinson eager to start with Giants when lockdown ends

"This is a great fit for me," said Tomlinson, who finished last season with the Oakland Raiders but was with the Giants for three weeks in September before being released. "They have a new coaching staff, I'm familiar with some of the coaches and all around this was a good fit.”

https://amp.elpasotimes.com/amp/5113021002

RT

Eisen Giants.com: Cam Fleming reunites with Jason Garrett, Marc Colombo 
https://www.giants.com/news/cam-fleming-astronaut-stanford-cardinal-offensive-tackle-free-agency-nfl

Schmeelk Giants.com: Film Study: How OT Cam Fleming fits Giants
https://www.giants.com/news/cam-fleming-dallas-cowboys-giants-scheme-nfl-free-agency-2020

Salomone Giants.com: 5 things to know about OT Cam Fleming
https://www.giants.com/news/cam-fleming-sign-offensive-tackle-free-agency-nfl-cowboys-patriots

Traina SI.com: Cam Fleming: Giants O-line Needs to Build Its Own Identity While Building Toward Cowboys Level
https://www.si.com/.amp-nygiants/nfl/giants/news/cam-fleming-giants-o-line-needs-to-build-its-own-identity-while-building-toward-cowboys-level

Edge

Eisen Giants.com: Kyler Fackrell adds versatility to Patrick Graham's D
https://www.giants.com/news/kyler-fackrell-patrick-graham-versatility-highlights-nfl-free-agency-2020

Schmeelk Giants.com: Film Study: How OLB Kyler Fackrell fits Giants
https://www.giants.com/news/kyler-fackrell-green-bay-packers-giants-scheme-nfl-free-agency-2020

Schwartz NYP: New Giant Kyler Fackrell out to prove one-sack 2019 was a fluke
https://nypost.com/2020/04/02/giants-kyler-fackrell-out-to-prove-one-sack-2019-a-fluke/amp/

Lombardo NJ.com: Here’s how Giants’ Kyler Fackrell hopes to bounce back, and what he hopes to teach young rushers | ‘I’m more than a one-sack guy'
https://www.nj.com/giants/2020/04/heres-how-giants-lb-kyler-fackrell-hopes-to-bounce-back-and-what-he-hopes-to-teach-young-rushers-im-more-than-a-one-sack-guy.html

FS

Falato BBV: Film Study | Is Julian Love the Giants' Answer at Free Safety?
https://www.si.com/.amp-nygiants/nfl/giants/film/film-study-is-julian-love-the-giants-answer-at-free-safety

NFL

Battista NFL.com: Sills: General testing needed for NFL reopening
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108243/article/nfl-chief-medical-officer-league-needs-broad-testing-to-reopen?

Trotter NFL.com: Three GMs who should be on the hot seat
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108183/article/three-nfl-general-managers-who-should-be-on-hot-seat-in-2020?

La Canfora CBS Sports.com: Bad NFL moves costly for all 32 teams: Rams, Texans foolishness forcing others to pay the price
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bad-nfl-moves-costly-for-all-32-teams-rams-texans-foolishness-forcing-others-to-pay-the-price/

ATLANTA
McClure ESPN Atlanta: Dante Fowler's goal with Falcons? Become the NFL's sack king
https://www.espn.com/blog/atlanta-falcons/post/_/id/35157/dante-fowler-goal-with-falcons-become-the-nfls-sack-king?

Ledbetter AJC: Fowler’s bond with Falcons coach Dan Quinn is strong 
https://www.ajc.com/sports/football/fowler-bond-with-falcons-coach-dan-quinn-strong/JANjb28JBFRFhZbeqwIJaI/amp.html

Ledbetter AJC: Edmond Robinson: ‘This could be my last chance’ to make it in the NFL”
https://www.ajc.com/sports/football/robinson-this-could-last-chance-make-the-nfl/BeC7UpEizympjsK5XnV7wI/amp.html

BUFFALO
Buffalo News: Bills reportedly met with Clemson guard John Simpson
https://buffalonews.com/2020/04/02/buffalo-bills-nfl-draft-offensive-line-john-simpson-clemson/

CHICAGO
Wiederer Chicago Tribune: 5 of the Bears’ 7 draft picks come after the 160th selection. A look back at the last 10 years shows they’re unlikely to make a big splash that late.
https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/bears/ct-chicago-bears-nfl-draft-picks-20200402-vgeavm6cvjha5jtcf3plj4vugu-story.html

CINCINNATI
Baby ESPN Cincinnati: Cincinnati Bengals OK with using just tape, not stressing about seeing Joe Burrow or other QBs
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28987145/cincinnati-bengals-relying-tape-see-qb-candidates-including-joe-burrow?

CLEVELAND
Cabot Cleveland Plain Dealer: Kevin Stefanski: 'I believe in Baker Mayfield,’ Odell Beckham Jr. and Jarvis Landry on track, and working from Minnesota during coronavirus pandemic
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/04/kevin-stefanski-i-believe-in-baker-mayfield-odell-beckham-jr-and-jarvis-landry-on-track-and-working-from-minnesota-during-the-coronavirus-quick-hits.html

Patsko Cleveland Plain Dealer: Joe Thomas explains the challenges facing rookie left tackles, and who best fits the Browns’ offense
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/04/joe-thomas-explains-the-challenges-facing-rookie-left-tackles-and-who-best-fits-the-browns-offense.html

Trotter ESPN Cleveland: Browns banking one-year deals will pay off for defense, now and later
https://www.espn.com/blog/cleveland-browns/post/_/id/27629/browns-banking-one-year-deals-will-pay-off-for-defense-now-and-later?

Goul Cleveland Plain Dealer: Five linebackers who could fit the Cleveland Browns on Day 2 of the NFL Draft 2020
https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/04/five-linebackers-who-could-fit-the-cleveland-browns-on-day-2-of-the-nfl-draft-2020.html

DALLAS
Epstein USA Today: While adjusting to life during coronavirus pandemic, Gerald McCoy 'extremely excited' for new challenge with Dallas Cowboys
https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/5118006002

Owning Dallas Morning News: Film room: What can the Dallas Cowboys hope to get out of Aldon Smith?
https://www.dallasnews.com/sports/cowboys/2020/04/02/film-room-what-can-the-dallas-cowboys-hope-to-get-out-of-aldon-smith/

DENVER
Renck The Denver Channel: Will Broncos build from inside out, take left tackle in first round?
https://www.thedenverchannel.com/sports/broncos/will-broncos-build-from-inside-out-take-left-tackle-in-first-round?

Newman Denver Post: Broncos Draft Board: Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs’ size, athleticism likely makes him likely top-10 pick
https://www.denverpost.com/2020/04/02/broncos-draft-board-iowa-ol-tristan-wirfs/

DETROIT
Windsor Detroit Free Press: Detroit Lions player part of the ultimate Palestinian-American success story
https://amp.freep.com/amp/5118560002

GREEN BAY
Demovsky ESPN GB: Aaron Rodgers applauds Packers' hiring of sports psychologist
https://www.espn.com/blog/green-bay-packers/post/_/id/48818/aaron-rodgers-applauds-packers-hiring-of-sports-psychologist?

HOUSTON
Wilson Houston Chronicle: Texans’ Lonnie Johnson Jr. determined to raise his game
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/texas-sports-nation/texans/amp/Texans-Lonnie-Johnson-Jr-determined-to-raise-15175766.php

JACKSONVILLE
DiRocco ESPN Jacksonville: Despite win-now mandate, Jaguars GM playing the long game
https://www.espn.com/blog/jacksonville-jaguars/post/_/id/28026/despite-win-now-mandate-jags-gm-dave-caldwell-playing-long-game?

KANSAS CITY
Teicher ESPN KC: Andy Reid prepping Chiefs' Super Bowl defense from basement
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28987516/andy-reid-prepping-chiefs-super-bowl-defense-basement?

Paylor Yahoo Sports: The Chiefs have reached an agreement with Sammy Watkins on a new 1-year deal that will pay him a base of $9m for 2020 with an incentive package that can reach $16m, a source tells me.
The move creates $5m in cap space for the Chiefs to operate this offseason.

Dixon SB Nation: Mike Remmers and Antonio Hamilton are in this thing together
The two former Giants are being thrown back together on a new team — and both are looking forward to it.
https://www.arrowheadpride.com/platform/amp/2020/4/2/21206083/mike-remmers-and-antonio-hamilton-are-in-this-thing-together

LAS VEGAS
Gutierrez ESPN LV: How does Marcus Mariota (and his big-for-a-backup contract) fit with the Raiders?
https://www.espn.com/blog/las-vegas-raiders/post/_/id/24227/how-does-marcus-mariota-and-his-big-for-a-backup-contract-fit-with-the-raiders?

Bair NBC Bay Area: Jordan Devey returning to Raiders, joining crowded guard group
https://www.nbcsports.com/bayarea/raiders/source-jordan-devey-returning-raiders-joining-crowded-guard-group?

ESPN: Eli Apple remains free agent after deal with Raiders falls through
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28988558/eli-apple-remains-free-agent-deal-raiders-falls-through?

Josina Anderson: Former #Browns & #Packers free agent S Damarious Randall just texted me he is going to the Las Vegas #Raiders on a 1-year deal

LOS ANGELES CHARGERS
Miller LA Times: Remotely speaking, Chargers coach Anthony Lynn has views on draft
https://www.latimes.com/sports/chargers/story/2020-04-02/chargers-coach-anthony-lynn-has-views-on-draft?

NEW ENGLAND
Volin Boston Globe: Time for Patriots to make a big play for Tua Tagovailoa in the draft
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/04/02/sports/it-may-be-time-patriots-make-big-play-tua-tagovailoa-draft/?

Callahan Boston Herald: Should the Patriots shake up their running back room through the draft?
https://www.bostonherald.com/2020/04/02/should-the-patriots-shake-up-their-running-back-room-through-the-draft/amp/

McBride Boston Globe: James White has faith Patriots will be prepared when NFL returns
https://www.bostonglobe.com/2020/04/02/sports/james-white-has-faith-patriots-will-be-prepared-when-nfl-returns/?

NEW ORLEANS
Nowak Nola.com: Sean Payton slams column bashing Saints' plan to 'head to a bar' for draft HQ
https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/article_4031ee7c-74fe-11ea-b9be-9782b1f3768a.html

Nowak Nola.com: Why Cam Jordan expects at least 2 more Saints seasons from Drew Brees? Ask Tom Brady
https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/article_c26f3c80-7523-11ea-ade0-c7effd02fdb3.html

Johnson Nola.com: Veteran defensive back P.J. Williams to return to the Saints on a 1-year deal
https://www.nola.com/sports/saints/article_be8fdcf0-7505-11ea-91f8-17af011e0f82.amp.html

NEW YORK JETS
Mehta NYDN: Jets GM Joe Douglas believes Breshad Perriman will be ‘impact’ player for Sam Darnold
https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/jets/ny-breshad-perriman-sam-darnold-20200402-jkq4dwwg4zh6phxlfxsaeqw3fy-story.html

PITTSBURGH
Benz Pittsburgh Tribune Review: Chris Wormley is coming to Steelers from Ravens exactly as advertised
https://triblive.com/sports/chris-wormley-is-coming-to-steelers-from-ravens-exactly-as-advertised/

SAN FRANCISCO
Bonilla 49ers Webzone: 49ers turned down multiple trade offers for QB Nick Mullens, per report
https://www.49erswebzone.com/articles/135793-49ers-turned-down-multiple-trade-offers-mullens-report/

TAMPA BAY
Stroud TB Times: Bucs making the most of a stay-at-home NFL draft
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2020/04/02/bucs-making-the-most-of-a-stay-at-home-nfl-draft/?

Encina TB Times: Blaine Gabbert to return as Bucs’ backup quarterback
https://www.tampabay.com/sports/bucs/2020/04/02/blaine-gabbert-to-return-as-bucs-backup-quarterback/

TENNESSEE
Bacharach The Tennessean: What Titans general manager Jon Robinson said about trading Jurrell Casey
https://www.tennessean.com/story/sports/nfl/titans/2020/04/03/jurrell-casey-broncos-titans-jon-robinson-trade-free-agency/2938056001/

WASHINGTON
Fortier Washington Post: Even though he had an up-and-down two years in Kansas City, Fuller returns to Washington at the peak of his career.
https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2020/04/01/kendall-fuller-returns-redskins-with-super-bowl-ring-he-wants-another-one/?outputType=amp#click=https://t.co/csADh1D50O

Colleges/Draft

Miller B/R: Matt Miller's Scouting Notebook: Latest 2020 Draft Rumors for Every NFL Team

“CINCINNATI: The expectation is still, as it has been for four months, that the Bengals will select Joe Burrow at No. 1 overall. That said, there is a lot of buzz in scouting circles that the Bengals will at least listen to calls for this pick. This isn't New York Giants general manager Dave Gettleman refusing to listen to calls when they had the No. 2 pick in 2018.
WASHINGTON: Chase Young will be the pick unless there is a major change in the next three weeks. I'm told by league sources that Washington won't consider a quarterback here.
DETROIT: The Lions will be a hot destination for teams hoping to trade up in the 2020 draft. The clear expectation from inside sources around the league is that the Lions would love to slide back to No. 5 or No. 6 overall and still get a cornerback like Ohio State's Jeff Okudah.

NEW YORK GIANTS: The most recent talk coming out of New York is that the Giants love Clemson defender Isaiah Simmons, and I believe it enough to have made that the pick in my most recent mock draft. There is a quiet buzz building for Iowa offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs, though. It's notable that around this time last year, the talk of Daniel Jones to the Giants heated up, but many around the league, myself included, simply couldn't believe Jones would be a top-10 pick. This time around, both players linked to the Giants are natural fits and values at No. 4 overall.

MIAMI: Dolphins fans might want to begin thinking about life without Tua Tagovailoa as their quarterback after months of "Tank for Tua" talk. I'm told by multiple league sources that the Dolphins aren't convinced Tua is the best option and could instead target Oregon's Justin Herbert. The situation is fluid, but the buzz around the league is that Herbert has the most fans in the Dolphins' draft room.
LOS ANGELES CHARGERS: For months we've heard the Chargers will draft whichever quarterback the Dolphins don't, which was believed to be between Tua and Herbert. That could still be the case, but in a conversation earlier this week, one very well-connected scout mentioned that Jordan Love is a name to watch here. That's something I reported during Senior Bowl week—that the Chargers had a crush on the Utah State quarterback—and it could be coming full circle.

The Big Board
1. EDGE Chase Young, Ohio State
2. QB Joe Burrow, LSU
3. CB Jeff Okudah, Ohio State
4. LB/S Isaiah Simmons, Clemson
5. WR Jerry Jeudy, Alabama
6. QB Tua Tagovailoa, Alabama
7. OT Jedrick Wills Jr., Alabama
8. DL Derrick Brown, Auburn
9. EDGE K'Lavon Chaisson, LSU
10. DL Javon Kinlaw, South Carolina
11. OT Tristan Wirfs, Iowa”

https://syndication.bleacherreport.com/amp/2884704-matt-millers-scouting-notebook-latest-2020-draft-rumors-for-every-nfl-team.amp.html

Hanson SI.com: 2020 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings: Top 100 Big Board 2.0
As we get closer to the draft, here's an updated ranking of the best 100 prospects on the board. A whopping 16 wide receivers make the list.

“1. Chase Young, EDGE, Ohio State (JR, 6' 5", 264 pounds)
While he won’t be the first pick in the draft, Young’s traits and production are exceptional. While his impact goes beyond the box score, the explosive edge rusher led the nation in sacks (16.5, 1.38/G) and forced fumbles (six, 0.5/G) despite serving a two-game suspension for an NCAA rules violation.
2. Joe Burrow, QB, LSU (rSR, 6' 3", 221 pounds)
Despite facing seven top-10 opponents, Burrow played his best in the biggest moments as he led the Tigers to an undefeated season. Throwing an FBS-record 60 touchdowns and rushing for five more, the Heisman-winning quarterback shows tremendous poise in the pocket and throws with pinpoint accuracy.
3. Jeffrey Okudah, CB, Ohio State (JR, 6' 1", 205 pounds)
Will Okudah be the first cornerback selected with a top-three pick since 1997 (Shawn Springs, Seattle)? The former Buckeye has all the traits teams covet in a shutdown corner—size, length, fluidity and athleticism—and led the Buckeyes in interceptions (three) and passes defended (12).

4. Isaiah Simmons, LB, Clemson (rJR, 6' 4", 238 pounds)
As Simmons says, he "just play(s) defense." The converted safety won the Butkus Award, given to the nation's top college linebacker, but he played 100-plus snaps at five different positions in 2019. A modern-day hybrid defender, Simmons ran a sub-4.4 in the 40 at 238 pounds and has the ability to impact the game from a variety of roles.
5. Tua Tagovailoa, QB, Alabama (JR, 6' 0", 217 pounds)
Medical evaluations are critical for Tagovailoa, who says he “feel(s) 100%.” Of course, teams won’t simply take his word for it and travel and team visit restrictions add even more uncertainty around his draft stock. When healthy, however, Tua has a quick release and throws with elite accuracy, anticipation and touch to all levels of the field.
6. Derrick Brown, IDL, Auburn (SR, 6' 5", 326 pounds)
Passing on an opportunity to be a first-round pick in 2019, Brown returned to school and has subsequently improved his draft stock. A scheme-diverse prospect, Brown has elite strength and size and is dominant against the run.

7. Jerry Jeudy, WR, Alabama (JR, 6' 1", 193 pounds)
A polished route-runner who plays fast, Jeudy excels after the catch with his stop-start ability and elusiveness. Jeudy has impressive body control and natural hands, but he has had some concentration drops. He’s a high-floor receiver who should emerge as his future team's No. 1 receiver early in his career.
8. Jedrick Wills, OT, Alabama (JR, 6' 4", 312 pounds)
Starting the past two seasons at right tackle, Wills showed year-over-year improvement from his sophomore to junior season. While he doesn't have experience at left tackle, Wills is an elite run blocker and he has the quick feet and smooth movement skills to become a high-end starter on either side.
9. CeeDee Lamb, WR, Oklahoma (JR, 6' 2", 198 pounds)
Experienced lining up both inside and outside, Lamb has exceptional ball skills with a special ability to contort his body and adjust to the ball in the air. While he doesn't have elite speed (he's fast enough, though), Lamb is dangerous after the catch with his vision in the open field and ability to make would-be tacklers miss.
10. Tristan Wirfs, OT, Iowa (JR, 6' 5", 320 pounds)
The first true freshman to start at offensive tackle during the Kirk Ferentz era, Wirfs mostly started at right tackle for the Hawkeyes, although he also started a few games at left tackle. A former state champion wrestler, Wirfs led all offensive linemen at the combine in the 40-yard dash (4.85), vertical jump (36.5") and broad jump (10' 1").

11. Javon Kinlaw, IDL, South Carolina (SR, 6' 5", 324 pounds)
Kinlaw possesses an unreal combination of size, first-step explosiveness and length—34 7/8" arms and 84" wingspan—and recorded a total of 10 sacks over the past two seasons. The South Carolina senior played his best in games against his toughest competition and put on a show during Senior Bowl one-on-ones.
12. Henry Ruggs III, WR, Alabama (JR, 5' 11", 188 pounds)
Given his rare acceleration and run-after-catch ability, Ruggs has the ability to take the top off of the defense and is a threat to take any slant to the house. While speed is his most deadly weapon, he has improved as a route-runner and adjusts well to the football.
13. Mekhi Becton, OT, Louisville (JR, 6' 7", 364 pounds)
Starting at left tackle in 2019, Becton had switched sides (LT to RT) within the game during the previous two seasons. Becton has rare size and length. Given his size, Becton has the strength you'd expect and is a mauler in the run game. While he has work to do for his pass protection to catch up to his prowess as a run blocker, he has rare movement skills for a man his size.
14. Andrew Thomas, OT, Georgia (JR, 6' 5", 315 pounds)
Thomas has started 41 games—15 at right tackle as a freshman and 26 at left tackle over the past two seasons. His combination of strength, length (36 1/8” arms), athleticism and experience make him ready to start Day 1.”

“33. Yetur Gross-Matos, EDGE, Penn State (JR, 6' 5", 266 pounds)
With his length, agility and first step, Gross-Matos has been a productive pass-rusher for Penn State with 17 sacks and 34.5 tackles for loss combined over the past two seasons.
34. Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor (SR, 6' 3", 207 pounds)
Few players, if any, have helped their draft stock more than Mims during the pre-draft process. After an outstanding week at the Senior Bowl, Mims ran a sub-4.4 in the 40 with a position-best 6.66 in the three-cone drill at the combine. Per PFF stats, the 207-pound wideout led the nation with 20 contested catches.
35. Brandon Aiyuk, WR, Arizona State (SR, 6' 0", 205 pounds)
With N’Keal Harry moving on to the NFL this past season, Aiyuk broke out for the Sun Devils with 1,192 yards (18.3 Y/R) and eight touchdowns in 2019. Dangerous in the open field, he has the ability to turn a short pass into a big play at any time.
36. Jeff Gladney, CB, TCU (rSR, 5' 10", 191 pounds)
Gladney lacks ideal size and length at the position, but he plays with a more physical presence than his weight would suggest. Blending foot quickness, short-area agility and a feisty competitive toughness, Gladney has a nose for the ball that's led to 26 passes defended since 2018 and five interceptions over his three seasons as a starter.
37. Zack Baun, LB, Wisconsin (rSR, 6' 2", 238 pounds)
Lacking ideal size to be a full-time NFL edge rusher, Baun trailed only Chase Young in sacks (12.5) and tackles for loss (19.5) among Big Ten defenders. With sideline-to-sideline range to go along with his coverage and blitzing ability, Baun should transition smoothly into his new role as an off-ball linebacker at the next level.”

“90. Prince Tega Wanogho, OT, Auburn (SR, 6' 5", 308 pounds)
91. Amik Robertson, CB, Louisiana Tech (JR, 5' 8", 187 pounds)
92. Logan Wilson, LB, Wyoming (rSR, 6' 2", 241 pounds)
93. Terrell Burgess, S, Utah (SR, 5' 11", 202 pounds)
94. Jonah Jackson, IOL, Ohio State (rSR, 6' 4", 306 pounds)
95. Willie Gay Jr., LB, Mississippi State (JR, 6' 1", 243 pounds)
96. Damien Lewis, IOL, LSU (SR, 6' 2", 327 pounds)
97. Netane Muti, IOL, Fresno State (rSR, 6' 3", 315 pounds)
98. Van Jefferson, WR, Florida (rSR, 6' 2", 200 pounds)
99. Kenny Willekes, EDGE, Michigan State (rSR, 6' 4", 264 pounds)
100. Tyler Johnson, WR, Minnesota (SR, 6' 1", 206 pounds)”

https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/03/draft-big-board-updated-top-100-prospects

Brandt NFL.com: Q& A

I would think that they have to take him. I'm not sure Burrow is as good as what we saw last year at LSU. I think he's talented but he's not Luck or Elway. Coming out of college I still I think I'd prefer Cam Newton over Burrow.

We'll definitely see four go in the first, and maybe 5: Lamb, Jeudy, Ruggs, Jefferson and Aiyuk

Best player? Lamb by small margin over Jeudy with Ruggs not far behind. The order in the 49ers draft room will probably be different, based on Shanahan's wants/needs for his offense.

[OL Evaluation] Biggest thing for me is a guy with good feet and long arms. The deciding factor arm length. Obviously his tape ultimately has to be good, but the feet and arms separate players. Strength you can always improve on, arm length you can't.

Wills
Wirfs
Thomas
Bechton
All in the my top 10 players overall

There is a dropoff but also depth. Ezra Cleveland and Josh Jones are in the next tier who have chances to go in Round 1. Lucas Niang and Matt Peart will be available and good picks in the second round. It will be interesting where we see the WR runs start. If early OTs will drop

The interesting player for me is the St. John's tackle, Ben Bartch. Another guy I kind of like, and I know I'm one of the few, is the TCU tackle, Lucas Niang. Peart, who I mentioned earlier, as well. Taylor from SC State is an interesting player to me.

The guy who should be getting more attention is Derrick Brown of Auburn. His 40 time is a concern but he's a really good football player I think will still end up in the top 10. Jefferson will be a better NFL player than the accolades he's gotten so far.

Certainly [Simmons] a talented athlete who has played at 3 different positions. I don't think he can play DB in the NFL but his pass rush skills as a LB are impressive. I'm not convinced though he's a game changer.

[NYG At 4] No. 1, I'm not sure Simmons will be there. I think they could take a tackle there. If Wills or Wirfs are there, great picks they can plug in there for the next decade.

[Okudah] He is a very talented corner and exceptional at the combine in the drills. The field work was a little questionable but very hard to find corners with that athletic ability and instincts. Still don't have 3-cone or shuttle time on him. Have him ranked 13 overall.

NFL.com: Davis mock draft 2.0: Pats go QB; Vikes take WR

4. NYG Simmons LB Clemson
School: Clemson | Year: Junior (RS)

“It would make sense if the Giants decide to draft one of the top offensive tackles here, but they're in great need of help on defense, and Simmons is the most versatile defender in the draft.”

https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108117/article/charles-davis-2020-nfl-mock-draft-20-patriots-pick-jordan-love?

QB
Yates ESPN: Good note from @LauraRutledge on Get Up that Tua Tagovailoa's hip re-check was performed by Titans team doctor Thomas Byrd, who is considered one of the most respected hip specialists in the world. An evaluator that other teams were familiar with and hold in plenty of regard.

Salguero Miami Herald: Attention Tua Tagovailoa invites great for media, but it has made some NFL teams wary

“These four players have different approaches. They have different strengths and different weaknesses. And that is perfectly fine.
But now I’m going to share something at least two NFL teams, including the Miami Dolphins, have noticed that puts three of those guys in one group and sets one of those guys apart from the others.

Tua Tagovailoa sure is trying hard.

And it’s not necessarily a good thing

And all this stuff was interesting and cool by me, because I’m part of the media. And if Tagovailoa or his camp like getting his name out there, and like planting stories, and enjoy attention, you have certainly gotten after it with gusto, fellas!
The more the merrier.
But NFL teams are not the media. They don’t think like the media.
NFL teams, indeed, often do whatever they can to keep their players as far from the media as permissible by league guidelines. Because most want their players thinking, eating, breathing, living football, and winning, and the team.

It means the team that drafts Tagovailoa must be comfortable with this kind of approach from him and his camp. Either that or that team must be convinced Tagovailoa will fall into line and the leaking and anonymous injury reporting will cease.
And how does this affect the Dolphins?
The Dolphins have questions about Tagovailoa — most of the medical variety.
But beyond that I have to wonder how coach Brian Flores views the current Tagovailoa approach. Because Flores is a good guy. And his players obviously appreciate him and he obviously appreciates them.
But Flores likes his team as insulated from the outside as possible.
He doesn’t like leaks.
He doesn’t like medical information getting out.
And he doesn’t want his quarterback distracted by national television interviews. Or local television interviews. Or freakin’ Face Time calls spent with a friend, for that matter, if it steals time from preparation.
Flores wants his players focused on what is inside and private to the team.
So my question would be, how is that compatible with what we have seen the past few months from Tua Tagovailoa?”

https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/spt-columns-blogs/armando-salguero/article241703136.html

Edholm Yahoo Sports: 31. Utah State QB Jordan Love
6-foot-4, 224 pounds 
Yahoo Sports draft grade: 6.00

“TL;DR scouting report: Extremely gifted but flawed passer whose spectrum is wide: He could develop into the best QB in this class — or a major bust.
The skinny: A 2-start Rivals recruit, Love turned down offers from Eastern Washington, Northern Arizona, Northern Colorado and Sacramento State to accept his one FBS offer from Utah State. He redshirted his first season on campus in 2016.
Love then saw playing time in 12 games in 2017, starting the final six in place of senior Kent Myers. That season, Love threw for 1,631 yards, eight touchdowns and six interceptions, completing 54.9 percent of his passes. He also rushed for 165 yards and two TDs.
Love took a big step forward in 2018, throwing for 3,567 yards, 32 TDs and six interceptions and rushing for seven scores and 63 yards in earning second-team All-Mountain West. As a redshirt junior in 2019, Love earned honorable mention all-conference honors, throwing for 3,402 yards, 20 touchdowns and 17 interceptions and running for 175 yards.
Love, who turns 22 years old in November, opted not to transfer to Texas Tech — as had been rumored — and instead entered the 2020 NFL draft. He was eligible for the Senior Bowl and had some solid moments, just as he did at the NFL scouting combine.
Upside: Extremely high-ceiling prospect. In a traits-based business, Love has elite physical traits. Raw, moldable talent that can be cultivated — still young and appears to have vast, untapped potential. 
Major arm talent — loose delivery and outstanding velocity on his throws. Can spray the ball to almost every corner of the field and has shown he can throw with touch at times, too. Rips the ball into the smallest of windows. Makes passes that other quarterbacks won’t even attempt.
Impressive athletic skill set — nice combine testing numbers (4.69-second 40, 35 1/2-inch vertical jump). Ideal QB physique. Packed on more than 40 pounds since high school and still moves and scrambles very easily. 
Has shown the ability to pick up first downs when tucking and running — gave us a reminder late in the season that he can still scramble. Buys time in the pocket to let deeper routes develop. Only sacked 38 times in 1,212 dropbacks over three seasons. Also can throw on the run — and deliver some hair-raising throws.
Deep-ball artist — drops them in nicely to give his receivers a chance. Puts some pretty arc on the ball and can drop it in over defenders’ heads. Throws pretty fade and back-shoulder balls. Here is an example of a really nice touch pass to find the soft spot against cover-3, with Love feathering the ball into a nice window after manipulating BYU’s middle-field safety with a quick pre-throw glance the other direction:

Looked far more comfortable running the system coached by Matt Wells and offensive coordinator David Yost (who are both now at Texas Tech) in 2018 than he did in Mike Sanford’s scheme in 2019. Showed tremendous poise and skill in near-upset of Michigan State in 2018. Lost his two best offensive weapons (nine offensive starters total) from 2018 to 2019, and the coaching staff changed entirely. 
Trailed in every game this season but two — Stony Brook and New Mexico. Was throwing to no NFL-caliber receivers and had poor blocking. Scheme was designed to be high-risk/high-reward and hinged on high-leverage passes. Made risky attempts some of the time because he felt he had to with Utah State’s 103rd-ranked defense that lost its best player (David Woodward) midway through the season.
Played in poor elements without issue. Big hands (10 1/2 inches) to grip larger NFL ball, especially in cold and wet conditions. Slow start at Senior Bowl but seemed to improve steadily. Uncorked some beautiful balls at combine throwing session — great velocity, pretty delivery and most passes were right in rhythm. 
Downside: Also very much a low-floor prospect — bust quotient quite evident. Ball security became a major issue last season — 17 interceptions and 13 fumbles. Three three-pick games last season after only six total in 2018. 
Decision-making was rash and confusing. Questionable processing speed — there seems to be a “one-Mississippi, two-Mississippi” between him seeing color flash and the ball coming out. Everything must be a tick faster. DIdn’t seem too interested in scrambling until he finally used his legs in the BYU game, when things started breaking down around him.
Believes too strongly in his ability to thread needles — tries to make too many low-percentage, tight-window passes with higher rate of turnovers. Telegraphs passes way too much— threw almost identical picks against Colorado State, the second of which was run back for a TD (one of three pick sixs on the season). Needs much better feel for when to throw it away and when to take off and run. Balls sail on him — touch and placement are very scattershot. Finished combine throwing session with brutal pass that undercut some of what he did that day. 
Production was pumped up by screen game. Many throws appeared to be predetermined before snap — hard to see much in the way of consistent, high-level coverage reading. Here’s a great example from that same BYU game — watch as Love simply doesn’t see the linebacker (who wasn’t doing anything fancy) dropping and throws an abysmal pick that two Cougars defenders had a shot at before his own receiver ever would have:

Looked frazzled at times in up-tempo offense. Wasn’t always patient through his progressions. Still green on fronts, formations, coverages. Faced four defenses ranked in FBS top 40 — LSU, Air Force, Boise State and San Diego State. His combined stat line in those games: 106-of-156 passing (68.0 percent) for 1,199 yards (7.7 yards per attempt), 10 TDs and five INTs. In games on the other end of the spectrum against New Mexico (No. 129 in FBS team defense rankings), Kent State (No. 121), Wake Forest (No. 88) and Stony Brook (No. 62 in FCS defense), he completed 80-of-136 passes (58.8 percent) for 766 yards (5.6 yards per attempt), two TDs and four INTs.
Maturity must be investigated. Some teams think he needs to grow up a bit. Cited for marijuana possession prior to the bowl game last season (charges were later dropped). Might need to spend a year or two behind a seasoned vet to figure out how a pro does the job. 
Best-suited destination: Ideally, the team that drafts Love will not thrust him into a starting role anytime soon. Having a mentor for a year (or two?) could allow him to develop the mental side of the game, but his physical skills are too good to ignore. He’d likely be best in a spread offense with daring concepts that push the ball horizontally and vertically.
Among the teams we think could be interested in his services include the Los Angeles Chargers, Indianapolis Colts, Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, New Orleans Saints, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, Atlanta Falcons, Las Vegas Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and New England Patriots.
Did you know: Love’s father, Orbin, killed himself in 2013 — just days after changing his blood-pressure medication. Love almost quit high school football at that point. But Orbin, who was a police officer in Bakersfield, California (and a former junior-college football player himself), would brag to his coworkers that his son would one day be an NFL QB.
That seemed far-fetched considering Love was a 5-foot-6, 130-pound freshman and, by his own admission, not yet very good at throwing a football. But he’d learn how to throw — and throw very well — and experienced a major growth spurt, well past 6-2 by his junior year.
But Orbin would miss that and Love’s run in the state high school football tournament his senior season. Jordan has helped keep his father’s dream alive by becoming an unexpectedly good talent possibly worthy of a first-round draft pick.
And Love announced his entry to the 2020 draft by thanking his father and mother for their support in getting to this point.
“I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point in my life, including my mom and my dad,” Love wrote on Twitter in December. “Words cannot express how grateful I am for your love and continued support.”

They said it: “If you want to say he has most of Patrick Mahomes’ physical ability, OK, that’s fine. The throwing, the athletic ability, all that. He’s got it. But he’s not Patrick. Let’s make that part clear. Patrick blew people away in his interviews — smart, even-keeled, he just got it. He wins with the mental part of the game.
“I think with [Love], you have to realize he’s raw from a football standpoint and also raw from a mental standpoint. There’s some immaturity there maybe, I don’t know. Developing the mental side will be the part that can’t be overstated or overlooked. You have to have a plan for him. Who is your starter now? Who the quarterback coach is, the offensive coordinator, the head coach — all of that. 
“He needs some time in the classroom. And when he comes out the other side, who knows? You might have something special. But the longer I’ve done this, the more I’ve realized how that part of the equation is the most important. Also, I’ll never again use the excuse that a player not having talent around him as something that somehow works in his favor. I’ve been burned on that before.
“You also have to know how some of these coaches are wired. Some OC [offensive coordinator] will see the raw talent and say, ‘I can work with that.’ They’re all geniuses, as you know. They know if they can turn someone like [Love] into a star, it gets them a head-coaching job. That’s what owners look for. And that’s another reason why [talented but flawed QBs] go higher than you’d think they should.”
— NFC college scouting director 
Player comp: A smaller version of Josh Allen (who won’t truck people as a runner). 
Expected draft range: Round 1, although good luck figuring out where exactly.”

https://sports.yahoo.com/amphtml/yahoo-sports-top-2020-nfl-draft-prospects-no-31-utah-state-qb-jordan-love-020412058.html

Wood Mil JS: Jordan Love's strengths are what NFL teams seek at evolving QB position
https://www.packersnews.com/story/sports/nfl/packers/2020/04/03/jordan-loves-strengths-what-nfl-teams-seek-evolving-qb-position/2928200001/

Hensley ESPN Baltimore: Can Tom Flacco be elite like his brother Joe? He thinks so
https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/28985249/can-tom-flacco-elite-brother-joe-thinks-so

Thamel Yahoo Sports: Can grad transfer QB help Oregon take 'next step' to College Football Playoff?
https://sports.yahoo.com/can-grad-transfer-qb-help-oregon-take-the-next-step-191642800.html

OL
Foster SI.com: Notre Dame Is the New Offensive Line U.
https://www.si.com/nfl/2020/04/02/modern-offensive-line-u-based-on-numbers

OT
Zierlein NFL.com:
Wirfs is zone
Thomas can do both but not really suited for outside zone
Wills has versatility
Becton has versatility

Edge
Brandt NFL.com: Pro comparisons for top pass rushing prospects
https://amp.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000001108198/article/2020-nfl-draft-prospectpro-comparisons-for-top-pass-rushers?

LB
Stiles SB Nation: Isaiah Simmons can do it all for an NFL defense, no matter where he lines up
Sometimes a jack of all trades is a master of none. That’s not Isaiah Simmons, though.
https://www.sbnation.com/platform/amp/nfl/2020/4/2/21161449/isaiah-simmons-nfl-draft-2020-position-combine-clemson-highlights-film

PFF Draft: Wyoming LB Logan Wilson grades since 2017:

PFF grade: 93.3
Run-defense: 91.1
Pass-rush: 90.5
Coverage: 91.1

DB
Bielik Cleveland Plain Dealer: Are small-school safeties Jeremy Chinn, Kyle Dugger Day 2 locks? NFL draft 2020 top SPARQ scores for defensive backs

Cornerbacks
1. Jeff Okudah, Ohio State (~99)
2. Harrison Hand, Temple (94.9)
3. CJ Henderson, Florida (~95)
4. Kindle Vildor, Georgia Southern (94.1)
5. Reggie Robinson II, Tulsa (92.4)
6. John Reid, Penn State (90.3)
7. Essang Bassey, Wake Forest (89.2)
8. A.J. Terrell, Clemson (86.0)
9. Kristian Fulton, LSU (69.4)
10. Stantley Thomas-Oliver, Florida International (68.9)

“What it means: 3SigmaAthlete.com has Henderson ranked behind Hand for now since Henderson’s score in incomplete. The reason is that Hand has a pSPARQ, or positional SPARQ score, of 134.2. And Henderson’s is only an estimated 134.

Okudah and Henderson were first-round locks. But Hand, who was ranked No. 117 overall by The Draft Network's Joe Marino, helped boost his stock at the NFL combine in February. The 5-foot-11, 197-pound corner did a 41-inch vertical jump and a broad jump of 133 inches. Only Okudah (135) did better among corners in the broad jump.
Vildor and Reid also did enough where they could be considered Day 3 options as opposed to being undrafted free agents. Reid ran an amazing 3.97 seconds in the shuttle, and Vildor, who is 5-foot-9, jumped 39.5 inches in the vertical.
As a whole, however, this group did not have as many elite athletes as the corners in the 2019 draft. That class featured 14 cornerback prospects with a SPARQ percentile of 90 or better.”

Safeties
1. Jeremy Chinn, Southern Illinois (~99)
2. Kyle Dugger, Lenoir-Rhyne (~99)
3. L’Jarius Sneed, Louisiana Tech (~98)
4. K’Von Wallace, Clemson (96.8)
5. Tanner Muse, Clemson (93.9)
6. Daniel Thomas, Auburn (90.9)
7. Antoine Winfield Jr., Minnesota (81.8)
8. Chris Miller, Baylor (78.6)
9. Josh Metellus, Michigan (70.5)
10. J.R. Reed, Georgia (66.2)

“What it means: For small-school prospects to be considered as early draft picks, they need to be dominant at their levels and test very well in athletic drills. Chinn and Dugger each have done both. Dugger was named the Division II Defensive Player of the Year, and Chinn was an FCS consensus All-American.
They both tested extremely well, with each running the 40-yard-dash in fewer than 4.5 seconds, jumping at least 41 inches in the vertical and more than 11 feet in the broad jump. They also did well in the Senior Bowl and should hear their names called in Day 2 of the draft.

Sneed improved his odds of getting drafted, especially after running the 40 in 4.37 and registering a vertical of 41 inches.
Among the notable safeties that either did not test or did not do enough tests to receive a SPARQ score, were Cal’s Ashtyn Davis, Texas’ Brandon Jones and LSU’s Grant Delpit.”

https://www.cleveland.com/browns/2020/04/are-small-school-safeties-jeremy-chinn-kyle-dugger-day-2-locks-nfl-draft-2020-top-sparq-scores-for-defensive-backs.html

S
KHON: Kahuku’s Alohi Gilman keeps halted NFL Draft process in perspective by living with ‘Aloha’
https://www.khon2.com/coronavirus/kahukus-alohi-gilman-keeps-halted-nfl-draft-process-in-perspective/amp/

History

Giants Birthdays 4-03

Rodney Hampton RB D1-Georgia 1990 NYG 1990-1997 4-03-1969

Shuck BBV: Where are your former Giants now? Catching up with RB Rodney Hampton (10-09-2018)
https://www.bigblueview.com/platform/amp/2018/10/9/17957174/where-are-your-former-giants-now-catching-up-with-rb-rodney-hampton

Giants.com: Giants Chronicles: Rodney Hampton (Video)
https://www.giants.com/video/giants-chronicles-rodney-hampton-13199765

Henry Moore HB/DB D2-Arkansas 1956 NYG 1956 4-03-1934

University of Arkansas: Moore was consensus all-SWC in 1954 and 1955 and led the Hogs in rushing during their 1954 SWC championship season. He was selected as the 19th overall pick in the 1956 NFL Draft and played two seasons as a pro. He won an NFL title his rookie season with the New York Giants.”

NEW YORK (UP) (9-12-1957)- “Halfback Henry Moore, the New York Giants’ No. 2 draft choice last season, has been traded to the Baltimore Colts for a “high” pick in the next National Football League draft. Moore, who played collegiately at the University of Arkansas, was sidelined during most of last season because of injuries.”

Danny Pittman WR D4-Wyoming 1980 NYG 1980-1983 4-03-1958

Spencer Pulley C W-LAC 2018 NYG 2018-2019 4-03-1993

In Memoriam

Ike Frankian RE/LE FA-1934 NYG 1934-1935 Born 4-03-1905 Died 4-14-1963

MIL JS (09-24-1934) “Three ends will attempt to turn back the Packer flank rushes Sunday, the list including Ray Flaherty of Gonzaga, Morris (Red) Badgro of Southern California and Ike Frankian of St. Mary's - a formidable crew...FLAHERTY FIELD CAPTAIN: Flaherty is field captain, and is often pressed into service as kicker and signal caller. He made his pro debut in 1926 with Wilson's Wildcars, was with the New York Yankees for two years, served as Gonzaga head coach in 1930 and is starting his fourth season with the Giants. Badgro has played five years of professional football - four with the Giants and one with the Yankees. He was named all-league end last season for the second time. Frankian starred with St. Mary's university in 1927-9, being an all-American in 1928, and coached under Slip Madigan for three years. He was with Boston last year.”

(10-29-1934)
Regulars Click After Being Inserted Into Game Full Of Thrills By The Associated Press NEW YORK, Oct. 29 “The New York pro football Giants won their fifth consecutive Game at the Polo Grounds Sunday, standing off the fighting challenge of the Philadelphia Eagles, 17 to 0, before a scattered crowd of 5,000 chilled spectators. The invaders presented a concrete forward wall for the first period, during which the Giant ball toters were utterly unable to gain any ground. The Eagles monopolized the quarter with smashing plunges that were good for four first downs. They exhibited a potentially strong aerial attack. Coach Steve Owen of the Giants started his intermediary line, but sent the regulars in the second period. The New Yorkers, leaders In the eastern division of the league, immediately clicked. The Eagles started a goalward march from midfield in the second stanza. The march was abruptly terminated when Swede Hanson, Eagle’s star hack, fumbled.

The ball was recovered by Ike Frankian, Giant wingman, on the 13. The Eagles were penalized five yards for offside. Strong flipped a (backward pass) to Frankian. Then the former New York university star plunged across goal line. He place kicked for the extra point. Strong kicked a placement from 12 yards In the fourth to send the Giants into a 10-0 lead. In the closing minute of play Willis (Mickey Mouse) Smith, reserve quarterback, skirted right end 24 yards to a touchdown. Strong kicked for the extra point.”

Played a key role in the 1934 Giants Championship win over the Bears.

NYDN Reprint from 12-10-1934

'The Sneakers Game' as the Giants beat the Bears 30-13 to win 1934 NFL title

“Ken Strong, Ed Danowski and Ike Frankian were the New York players strikingly responsible for this smashing upset, but these scoring athletes got plenty of co-operation from their teammates and the Giants played like inspired men to turn what seemed like certain defeat into a glorious victory.
Strong made two touchdowns and Danowski and Frankian got one each.

You could have named your own odds on bets that the Giants would win as they trailed on the short end of a 13-3 score going into the final period. The Bears had given them a frightful hammering and they were bruised and weary from being bounced off the frozen turf by the big, powerful Chicagoans.

They began to outplay the Bears in the third period, and Danowski's pegs to Ray Flaherty, Dale Burnett and Strong took them deep into Chicago territory when they changed goals. But an intercepted pass enabled Molesworth to punt to Strong, who ran to the Bear 30 to set the stage for the first of the Giant tallies.

The stocky, swarthy Frankian legged it to the Bear goal line, with Carl Brumbaugh covering the ex-St. Mary's player. Danowski let fly with a 28-yard pass that Brumbaugh intercepted, but as he and Frankian collided and slid backward across the goal line the ball was cleverly taken from the Chicagoan by the canny Ike. Strong converted the point and the Giants found themselves only three points behind...”

https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/football/giants/giants-win-title-30-13-35-059-thrilled-fans-mob-heroes-cops-article-1.1999002?

Schmitt BBI: The 1934 New York Giants
https://www.bigblueinteractive.com/2013/10/01/1934-new-york-giants/

Bill Miklich LB UDFA-Idaho 1947 NYG 1947-1948 Born 4-03-1919 Died 3-10-2005

NEW YORK (U.R) (4-29-1947) The New York Football Giants announced the signing of Fred Mullis, T-formation quarterback from the University of Chattanooga, .and William Miklich, fullback who formerly led the Pacific Coast in scoring with the University of Idaho.

Began his career at the University of Idaho prior to WWI, served in the Marines from June of 1942 until January of 1946. He saw action at Saipan, Tinian, and Okinowa with the second marine division and landed with his division at
Nagasaki, Japan after the atomic bomb had been dropped.

He then returned to Idaho as a fullback and linebacker for his final year of eligibility in 1946.

On 10-21-1948 he was traded to the Lions

NEW YORK GIANTS GET KEN KEUPER
OCTOBER 21 (Green Bay) - “Ken Keuper, veteran blocker, was obtained by the New York Giants Thursday in a deal with the Detroit Lions. The Lions earlier this season claimed Keuper on waivers from the Green Bay Packers. Keuper will report to the Giants at once, The Lions obtained Bill Miklick, who played his college football at Idaho.”