In an unprecedented NFL Draft, the Giants entered Thursday night with 10 draft picks and ended the weekend with, 10 new players. It was the first draft under Head Coach Joe Judge’s regime but the third one under General Manager Dave Gettleman. Here is my analysis of their selections and also what I would have done different.
ROUND 1 - #4 OVERALL
Andrew Thomas – OT/Georgia – 6’5/315
Summary: Junior entry from Lithonia, Ga. A three year starter with experience at both tackle positions and a two-time 1st Team All SEC and All American. Thomas has the tools and more than enough quality tape over three years to sell himself as an elite left tackle prospect. The issue, however, is the amount of inconsistencies he shows in pass protection when it comes to technique. He doesn’t maximize those tools and has gotten used to playing catch-up football which will be much more difficult to do against NFL edge players. Thomas will be a plus-run blocker right away but whatever team ends up with him will need to be patient in his development as a pass blocker.
*From the beginning, I was leaning toward NYG going offensive tackle with this pick if they were to stay put at #4. The question was which one of the four was going to be the guy? Much of the media had been pointing to Tristan Wirfs but I think that was an example of them being a parrot to each other. I looked at what Dave Gettleman had drafted at OT in his days as a General Manager and had a strong feeling Thomas would be their guy. I’ve said multiple times in regard to him that if he reaches his upside, he will be the best left tackle in the class. He has elite length and power, he was a productive pass blocker in the SEC for three years, and he is a very smart young man. A pro scout gave me the best line on him, “When he’s pissed off, nobody can beat him. I mean nobody. Problem is, he doesn’t always play pissed off.” I don’t think Thomas has maturity or work ethic issues like Ereck Flowers did but I do think he relied on talent too often. He has to clean things up, most notably the width of his hands and his knee bend. Initially I assumed he would play RT in year one while Nate Solder would man the left side for another season but the more I think about it, it may make more sense to put Thomas on the left side. He is going to have less time on the practice field because of the shutdown, meaning less time to get reps at altering his footwork, hip movement, and hand placement back to the right side where he played as a true freshman. No matter what, he is a week 1 starter and the best NYG offensive line prospect they have had in a very, very long time.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Tristan Wirfs – OT/Iowa – 6’5/320
Summary: Junior entry and three year starter from Mount Vernon, Iowa. After a record setting high school shot put and discuss career, Wirfs stepped in as a starting right and left tackle as a true freshman in 2017. He settled in on the right side as the Hawkeyes have another future NFL prospect manning the left side, Alaric Jackson. Wirfs is a physical freak in the weight room and keeping that in mind with his background as a thrower, it was a sight to see as his football skill set and performance started to catch up with his upside in 2019. The foot-quickness, hand-striking, and easy knee bend gives him the look of a franchise offensive tackle. There are multiple inconsistencies that remain, however. He overextends too often and the speed/power combination of NFL edge rushers can eat that up for breakfast if it isn’t fixed. The just-turned 21 year old has work in front of him to do but if he can correct the very correctable issues, he can be a star.
*Wirfs ended up going to TB at #14 overall to help keep Tom Brady upright. He was the fourth tackle to be taken in round 1, something I didn’t see coming but nothing surprises me that much in the draft. We have discussed this several time and I am trying to keep these short, but simply put I felt he was a better fit for what NYG wanted to do on offense and I trust his progression a bit more because of how much he improved over the past three years. He is just scratching the surface of what he will be, but he is probably a little behind at this moment in time compared to Thomas. And he just doesn’t fit the profile of what Gettleman has drafted at OT in the past.
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ROUND 2 - #36 overall
Xavier McKinney – S/Alabama – 6’0/201
Summary: Junior entry. Two year starter from Roswell, Georgia. 2019 All American and First Team All SEC. McKinney was a do-it-all safety for Nick Saban’s defense, making plays against the pass, the run, and on special teams. He is a versatile, rangy, aggressive weapon for the defense that reacts and closes as fast as anyone can at the position. He is a hustler that will bring swagger to the defense he gets drafted to. He has some on-field discipline issues that can get exposed in the NFL, thus he will need some extra time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the game. His upside is sky-high if he is put in to the right situation and he applies himself.
*I’ll start by saying McKinney has had a first round grade (year 1 starter) on my board since the middle of the fall when I first broke him down. He has a really solid skill set that can be used in multiple ways in the secondary. I thought they would lean more toward Grant Delpit if they wanted a safety, however. By no means do I think this was the wrong guy though, not at all. McKinney, although he has a different body type, is woefully similar to what NYG has already in Jabrill Peppers. The majority of their snaps start in the box, they both pursue the run well, and they both play physical,; they are guys that “bring energy” to a defense. Intense play, body on the line, go-getter type defenders. I did see Gettleman talk about his ability in deep coverage, but I would question that. McKinney plays faster than his 4.63 he put up at the combine, absolutely. He has loose hips and can accelerate, yes. But I don’t see him faring well in deep coverage against NFL wide receivers. I do understand they have Julian Love and I think their primary nickel package will be to have these three safeties on the field, but I think this still creates some unrest about deep coverage. McKinney is a really good read and react player, but I don’t think he flows very well when it comes to instincts and forecasting. Simply put, I wouldn’t want him in charge deep. I do think he can make plays downhill and in lateral pursuit, he can blow up screens, he can pursue the scrambling quarterback, he can spy the pass catching running backs. He is a really good player and if the long-term plan is to let Peppers walk after 2020, I am 100% behind the selection.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Yetur Gross-Matos – EDGE/Penn State – 6’5/266
Summary: Junior entry. Two year starter from Spotsylvania, Virginia. When it comes to long term upside and tools, Gross-Matos can be considered one of the top defenders in the entire class. He has the height, length, and speed combination that is considered rare and salivating for coaches. Don’t make the mistake of labeling him just an upside player, however. He recorded 35 TFL and 17.5 sacks over his two seasons as a starter and has more than enough tape to prove he can get the job done early in his career. There are issues with his game, most notably when it comes to power and inside run defense, but Gross-Matos has a top shelf toolbox that may just need some time and strength development before being an every down player.
*I would have loved to see where NYG had this kid stacked. I thought he just made too much sense for the scheme, for the need, and for what NYG likes in young prospects. The upside he has is closer to Chase Young than most think, he has it all. There are some power issues but if you look at the body type, most notably length, one has to assume that is going to come in time. The other traits are there and I trust the person too. I understand the thought Gettleman is using, “scheme will create sacks…etc” but that doesn’t mean you look past this kind of talent when it is there. The NYG pass rush has potential to be a disaster in 2020, and I mean that fully. It is simply a part of football that you just can’t afford to look past and “rely on scheme’ in my opinion. It may work occasionally but if you want it to be a reliable, consistent source of winning football, you need big time talent there. NYG should know better, look at how they won Super Bowls.
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ROUND 3 - #99 OVERALL
Matt Peart – OT/Connecticut – 6’7/318
Summary: Fifth year senior from Kingston, Jamaica. A four-year starter who never missed a game. 1st Team All AAC honors as a senior. Peart is relatively new to the game, as he didn’t play football until he started high school. He is a physically gifted player that, when his feet are in the right place, showed dominant traits. He has incredibly strong hands with long arms and an athletic base, he simply just needs to hammer away at his lower body mechanics until they become more natural and consistent. If and when that happens, he is a starting caliber player.
*About 10 days before the draft, I said I believed NYG would be going for Peart late day 2 / early day 3. This isn’t a pat on the back at all, as I didn’t even consider this to be an option after NYG drafted Thomas; I definitely did not see this coming. However, I have to say I absolutely love the strategy here. If all works out and both guys develop properly, NYG has their two tackles set it stone for the next 3-4 years at a well-below market price. Not sure if you have noticed, but the new top-shelf offensive tackle market is now set at over $20 million annually (for one guy). They may have a 3-year run at paying their starting tackles a COMBINED $10 million (estimated) while also paying below market value for their quarterback. This will be a huge opportunity to add a couple key pieces in free agency. This also could act as a hedge, should Thomas not pan out. All in all, Peart has things to clean up with his lower body, primarily his feet. But his wingspan and arm length is going to make him a very tough guy to simply get around. This was a very underrated pick by Gettleman that could pay countless dividends.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Tyler Biadasz – OC/Wisconsin – 6’4 /314
Summary: Fourth year junior entry from Amherst, Wisconsin. A three year starter that never missed a game. 1st Team All Big 10 in both 2019 and 2018, 3rd Team All Big 10 in 2017. Unanimous 1st Team All American in 2019, Honorable Mention in 2018. And lastly, the 2019 Rimington Trophy Winner and Outland Trophy Finalist. Biadasz is obviously a widely respected and accomplished center for an offensive line that produced three straight 1,900 yard rush seasons. He was the leader of that group and one of the architects of the entire offense with how much he was responsible for at the point of attack mentally. He has NFL starter written all over him and even though there are some footwork warts in his arsenal, Biadasz has the tools to be an elite center and probable week 1 contributor. If he can fix some his technique red flags, there will be very few chinks in his armor.
*It looks like some teams were more scared off by the hip injury with Biadasz than I thought. He ended up going to Dallas in round 4. If he ends up being a quality player, this one may sting a bit but that can easily be offset by other factors. I just felt this was an opportunity to get the future starting OC in the building, even if that wouldn’t happen until 2021. Banking on a rookie center without the rookie camp and OTAs is a risky proposition for any team. At his best, Biadasz would be the top center on this team by a considerable margin. If he was here, it would also allow Nick Gates to play the inside-out backup role which is where I think his value would be enormous. NYG did end up addressing the spot with Shane Lemieux later on so missing out on him hurts less, however.
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ROUND 4 - #110 OVERALL
Darnay Holmes – CB/UCLA – 5’10 /195
Summary: Junior entry from Pasadena, California. Three-year starter that was named Honorable Mention All Pac 12 twice. A former five star recruit that graduated college in just under three years. Holmes doesn’t jump off the screen when it comes to size and speed, but he had a really solid career and shows flashes of a ball-savvy playmaker that can stay in phase, trust his coverage, and progress to an inside-out corner. While he will likely stay inside against the slot where his size won’t be an issue, Holmes shows really good instincts and potential as an outside zone cover corner. He also can add value as a returner. Holmes is a day three pick that will likely make an impact in year one.
*The Giants have had issues with their nickel defense for a few years. Their 3rd down + 4th down stop percentage has been bottom third since the start of 2017 and while you can point to safety coverage, linebacker coverage, and pass rush as guilty culprits as well, the slot has been running wild against them. These days, the nickel corner is considered a starting position more than the third linebacker because of the amount of snaps they are on the field. Grant Haley, although a nice undrafted free agent story to some, simply won’t cut it. Between Holmes and the three-safety package I expect to see, his days are likely numbered. I know plenty of guys that think Holmes is made for life in the NFL because of his ability to stick with slot receivers. His greatest trait is feel for the game, instincts, and forecasting. NYG hasn’t had that at nickel and because of that, I could see him being a factor as a rookie.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
JR Reed – S/Georgia – 6’1/202
Summary: Fifth year senior from Frisco, Texas. Began his career at Tulsa, as an injury sustained his senior year of high school nearly derailed his recruitment. Son of former NFL wide receiver Jake Reed and nephew of former NFL defensive back Dale Carter. Reed transferred to Georgia in 2016 and proceeded to start three years for the Bulldogs. He earned All SEC honors twice and was named a 2019 All American and Thorpe Award finalist. Even though Reed will be a 24-year-old rookie, his potential to be a long time starter in the league is as high as anyone. He lacks the ideal standout physical traits, but the intelligence he plays with and knack to locate the action quickly will make him an asset for any defense. His playing speed and strength is good enough, and the coach’s favorite with NFL bloodlines will get himself on to the field early.
*Reed went undrafted and it was reported this morning several teams crossed him off because of the ACL injury he sustained in high school, 6 years ago. Other teams don’t draft 24-year-old rookies. Maybe the knee check ups forecasted future issues but whatever, I will wear this one. He got signed right away by JAC in the free agency period. I’ve been behind Reed since August and I stand by my projection of him being a starter someday. I think his fit with NYG would have eased the deep coverage concerns I had, and still have. I have a thing for safeties with instincts and that approach has ended up working out pretty well in the past with guys I had day 2 grades on, ended up going later, and played well in the league. I will be keeping a close eye on him.
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ROUND 5 - #150 OVERALL
Shane Lemieux – OG/Oregon – 6’4/310
Summary: Fifth year senior from Yakima, Washington. Four year starter that never missed a game, 52 consecutive starts. Two-time 2nd Team All Pac 12 and 2019 2nd Team All American. Lemieux is a reliable, know-what-you’re-getting guard that won’t be a guy that consistently hurts an offense, but has a limited upside. He is big and plays with a blue collar attitude, often overpowering and out-hustling his man. However there are certain matchups and situations where his tight hips and inconsistent pad level pops up. He will need to be protected a bit, but he should at least be a solid interior backup early on with the potential to start down the road.
*I graded Lemieux in the tier that I label “backup / gamble starter”. What I mean by that, I think he is a guy that can backup the interior and if things click, and can end up being a decent starter. Obviously if the cards fall NYG’s way, this selection could offset passing on Biadasz earlier in the draft multiple times because it sounds like he will get a look at playing center. A career guard, he has been working on snapping throughout the pre-draft process. It is interesting to me that when Oregon dealt with injuries at center, it was their right tackle (Throckmorton) that moved to center while Lemieux stayed at guard. Nonetheless, I liked what NYG did here and a case can be made this was better value than Biadasz not just because of injures, but also because he appears to be a multiple-position backup early on. Biadasz, Harris, and Hennessy likely would have been center-only picks, diminishing their value early on when they aren’t starters. If Lemieux can be protected laterally, he can get the job done power wise. I see him competing for a starting spot in 2021.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Donovan People-Jones – WR/Michigan – 6’2/212
Summary: Junior entry from Detroit, Michigan. Three-year starter that earned 3rd Team All Big 10 honors in 2018 as both a receiver and punt returner. The former 5-star recruit that was also an accomplished high school sprinter with a near-4.0 grade point average never quite lived up to the hype after a promising Freshman All American season in 2017. The inconsistent quarterback play combined with a lingering lower body injury that hampered him in the first half of 2019 left a lot of unknowns for him. However his athletic ability combined with top shelf length and hand size in addition to a woefully impressive combine leaves him on the positive side of that wonder. This is a receiver with number one receiver potential that needs to clean up some of his route running, but already has other traits that will help a team right away.
*This was the top day 3 value at WR that I had on my board. Getting him in round 5 would have been a major “steal” in my mind. Cleveland ended up getting him in round 6. I remember saying prior to the draft that plus-talent at WR was going to be available deep in to day 3, well here you go. In my eyes, NYG looked past WR (much to my surprise) because they have a guy they already extended (Shepard), a guy they signed (Tate), and a guy they drafted (Slayton). In addition to those three, they also have a tight end (Engram) that plays more receiver-type roles and two running backs (Barkley and Lewis) that are considered plus-receivers for the position. With the resources needing to be placed elsewhere, I guess they just didn’t want to use a pick at the position knowing that draftable players there could be had in free agency. People-Jones is going to surprise people. He had a tough-go at Michigan and I think he will be the classic player that produces at a higher level in the NFL than he did in college.
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ROUND 6 - #183 OVERALL
Cam Brown – LB/Penn State – 6’5/233
Summary: Senior entry from Burtonsville, Maryland. Two-year starter that earned 3rd Team All Big 10 honors in 2019. Cousin of former NFL wide receiver Andre Davis. Brown’s production was all over the stat sheet and field over his two years as a starter. The team captain is a smart and intense player with the tool set that doesn’t come around often when it comes to straight-line speed, height, and length. He has three down capability in that he has shown the potential to be an effective edge rusher on passing downs and if can add sustainable bulk to his frame, that may be an eventual home for him. Early on he has big time special teams potential that could end up starting in a 4-3 SAM type role down the road.
*Round 6, in my eyes, is officially that start of “late rounds”. There isn’t a specific template for what to do when this arrives, but most of these guys are either tools-rich / trait-rich prospects that lack completeness or single-dimension players that can fill a specific role. Brown fits in the tools-portion. He is really tall, really long, and can move well in space. He isn’t close to the caliber of Isaiah Simmons obviously, but for those that wanted him can get excited about Brown. His greatest tool may be in coverage but he lacks stoutness against blockers, similar to Simmons. He can factor as an edge rusher as a blitzer but don’t mistake him for a major threat there, similar to Simmons. Brown has potential to be a guy that can blanket tight ends in man coverage. He can move as well as most of them and his length makes his radius to break passes up is enormous. I don’t ever see him being a starter or every down impact guy, but instead a nickel-linebacker that will also impact special teams.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Stephen Sullivan – TE/LSU – 6’5/248
Summary: Senior entry from Donaldsonville, Louisiana. Two-year starter that has been a part of the consistent offensive rotation since 2017. The former top 10 wide receiver recruit evolved in to an athletic, tools rich tight end prospect that is going to be a bit of a project in the NFL. He is gifted with tools that few others can match when it comes to size and speed, but he never quite put a lot of consistent production together at LSU. He has a ways to go as a blocker but the effort seems to be there and he flashed during Senior Bowl week as a matchup nightmare in the passing game.
*I didn’t think tight end should really be in the cards early on but late? I thought this would have been a really nice gamble and hedge. I really like Evan Engram as a playmaker but as I said in the previews, I’m just not sure he is a long-term guy at tight end. He is a slight liability in the running game, he is oft-injured, and putting him on the field as a receiver takes Shepard, Tate, or Slayton off. By no means do I think he should be playing elsewhere (unless they can net a day 2 pick for him via trade), but I think it is time to prepare for him not being here long term. Sullivan has a ways to go as a blocker as well, but he has the frame to add legit mass, he has very long arms, and he appeared to be a high-effort blocker at the Senior Bowl. You can work with that. The question would be whether or not you can use a roster spot on a fourth tight end. So I can see why many wouldn’t agree with this one.
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ROUND 7 - #218 OVERALL
Carter Coughlin – EDGE/Minnesota – 6’3/236
Summary: Senior entry from Eden Prarie, Minnesota. Three-year starter that was Honorable Mention in 2017 and 2nd Team in both 2018 and 2019. Coughlin played primarily off the edge for the Gophers but his role may have to be tweaked at the next level, as he simply doesn’t have the frame to handle every down duty on the outside. That said, he looks like a natural when dropping in to coverage and he plays a comfortable game in space. He could be an ideal, yet rare, candidate to make the move to off-ball linebacker while still carrying the ability to impact the passing game on third down. His 40 career tackles for loss, 22.5 career sacks, and 7 career forced fumbles combined with sneaky speed and quickness can be used on more than just special teams.
*NYG had 4 picks in round 7 and I think all of them were drafted with special teams in mind. Coughlin is your typical back-end roster guy that gets by on a combination of motor, sneaky speed, physical nature, and` instincts. With what I expect NYG to be doing on defense, I see him as a BUCK candidate. The pass rushing linebacker that can transform in to a 4-3 SAM or WILL when the front changes. As seen in my short summary above, he was one of less than a handful of prospects that I said could move from EDGE-type to ILB-type. Early on I think he is going to be special teams-only if he makes the team, but don’t be surprised to see him get looks behind Mayo and Brown at the traditional ILB roles.
WHO I WOULD HAVE TAKEN
Javaris Davis – CB/Auburn – 5’9/183
Summary: Fifth year senior entry from Jacksonville, Florida. Four year starter that was in the heavy cornerback rotation from the start of his career. The former star high school sprinter from Florida, where speed goes on trees, is an experienced inside-out corner that has the tools to play both spots in the NFL. His size may keep him at nickel, but don’t underestimate his ability to fill in outside when needed. Davis has standout speed and length and has been a productive corner in the SEC for four straight seasons. He doesn’t always play with balance and control, but he has more than enough quality tape combined with an impressive tool set to warrant the idea he can be an effective nickel or dime defender at the next level.
*I was in the same boat with NYG thinking when it came to adding a nickel to the secondary, they just went earlier. I actually had Davis graded higher than Holmes, but not by much. I loved the speed (sub 4.4) and his plus length for his frame which at least somewhat hinders his 5’9 height. He stood out to me every time I watched Auburn as a read and react guy against both the pass and run. Not much more to say here but he signed with KC in free agency and I bet he makes their 53.
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ROUND 7 - #238 OVERALL
TJ Brunson – LB/South Carolina – 6’1/230
Summary: Senior entry from Columbia, South Carolina. Three year starter and two-time team captain. Winner of multiple leadership and work ethic-based team awards. Brunson was on the radar as one of the top senior linebackers in the nation coming in to 2019. However an offseason sports hernia surgery hampered his training and he appeared to get off to a slow start. He picked it up as the year progressed and finished second on the team in tackles after leading the team in 2018. Brunson is a two-down thumper that will impact the game between the tackles and on special teams. His upside is limited because he doesn’t move well in coverage, but don’t underestimate players with this kind of work ethic, passion for the game, and leadership. He could be drafted late or end up being a priority free agent.
*The seventh round players, even the sixth round as well, can be interchanged with a bunch of undrafted free agents. I put Brunson in that crowd. His physical nature and power presence are attractive but he isn’t just a simple run-forward thumper. While coverage won’t ever be his strong suit, he is a smart enough player to keep on the field if need be. His impact on special teams will be felt and I think the intangibles he brings to the table are exactly what this coaching staff wants. A head-down hard worker that has enough talent, but can get the most out of himself unlike many others. He will make this team.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Benny LeMay – RB/Charlotte – 5’8/221
Summary: Senior entry from Matthews, North Carolina. Three-year starter. First Team All Conference USA in 2019, 2nd Team in 2018. LeMay was a two-time team captain that brings a very workmanlike approach to the game. He is a no-nonsense player that will find ways to get the job done despite not working with the best set of tools out there. He is an intelligent runner with tremendous lower body strength that elevates his yards after contact and balance. LeMay has a nose for the line he needs to get to and will always fall forward. Don’t expect big plays on the regular, but he is a safe bet to provide solid backup and short yardage duty with the occasional catch out of the backfield.
*I looked at the running back position with two “negative” thoughts. One, both Dion Lewis and Wayne Gallman are free agents in 2021. Two, I don’t see a back to take some short yardage pressure off Barkley. I know Barkley can handle the role just fine but if there is one part of his game I think is average, that is it. I also think it could be a way to protect him a bit and save some of his touches for the open field were he is most lethal. LeMay is built like Maurice Jones-Drew was, when he was playing anyway. He was also extremely successful in short yardage and at the goal line. Lastly, he did show some plus-receiving ability in 2019 to the point where I think he could end up being something in this league. He was picked up by Cleveland in free agency.
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ROUND 7 - #247 OVERALL
Chris Williamson – CB/Minnesota – 6’0 – 199
Summary: Fifth year senior from Atlanta, Georgia. Transferred to Minnesota where he started for one year after transferring from Florida, where he spent two seasons. Williamson is a height/weight/speed prospect that has the talent to be a late pick. His long speed and short area burst at 200 pounds gives him the ability to play multiple cornerback roles. However his hip tightness may force a move to safety where his range and physicality could be a weapon.
*I was on a staff that scouted all the practices and games at the East/West Shrine week. Williamson was unanimously considered to be the top defensive back there, he had a really strong week. NYG had a pretty strong presence down there. I have a feeling they may view him as a backup to the role in which Julian Love is playing, a hybrid CB/S that can move around in sub packages. He really is a plus-athlete and he showed excellent man coverage underneath. I’m not sure I see him as an outside guy though, he just doesn’t turn well enough vertically. He is not a definite to make the team, but I think he has a more than 50% shot.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Benito Jones – DT/Ole Miss – 6’1/316
Summary: Senior entry from Waynesboro, Mississippi. Four year starter that came to Ole Miss as a 5-star recruit and the 2016 Mississippi High School Player of the Year. Earned 2nd Team All SEC in 2019. Jones is the classic defensive tackle force that often gets overlooked when it comes to accolades and awards. He does a lot of dirty work that elevates players around him, but rarely gets his name called when outsiders discuss impact players. Coaches and scouts will see just how good of an every down force he is, and can be. He has always worked on the family farm during the offseason and that kind of power and natural strength shows up on tape. He is very effective with his hands and he shows surprising pop out of his stance. He has a quicker first step than most will assume and combined with his tool set, it will cause offensive lines to plan around him. He is the kind of player that impacts the game so many ways and he will outperform several players drafted ahead of him.
*I’m not completely sold on there being a roster spot for Jones, but I thought this was a worthy gamble. I had a grade on him similar to Shane Lemieux, “future backup/gamble starter”. In recent years I have had some success in grading a few short but stout/quick/powerful defensive tackles. Khalen Saunders and Greg Gaines last year, PJ Hall and Derek Nnadi the year before. I think Jones is the next guy. He plays low, he has long arms, and he gets off the ball well. Remember, this kid was a 5-star recruit out of high school and I have multiple game notes where I talk about him being a catalyst in productive Ole Miss performances. Simply put, I think this dude not only makes a roster, but ends up being a really good 2 down run stuffer. NYG still needs that.
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ROUND 7 - #255 OVERALL
Tae Crowder – LB/Georgia – 6’3/235
Summary: Fifth year senior from Pine Mountain, Georgia. 2-year starter that originally came to Georgia as a running back. After playing primarily special teams in 2016 and 2017, Crowder got in to the weekly rotation in 2018 and ended up starting 5 games. He is a physical, athletic player with excellent range in run pursuit. He can reach the sidelines with some time left over and has shown plus-wrap up tackling. He isn’t overly stout between the tackles but he has a way of missing contact by blockers and undercutting their angles. He will be a key special teamer early on with the upside of filling the back end of a depth chart as a weak side linebacker.
*Crowder fits the bill for the athletic, long-armed, special team weapons this team was pursuing late. They certainly are going to have a lot of competition at linebacker and special teams, that’s for sure. Crowder is a guy that made me think of a lesser version of Malik Harrison, the linebacker from Ohio State that was drafted in round 3. He is lesser across the board but they simply reminded me of each other, both were offensive stars in high school too.
WHO I WOULD HAVE PICKED
Azur Kamara – EDGE/Kansas – 6’3/245
Summary: Senior entry from Glendale, Arizona. A junior college recruit that started 3 games for the Jayhawks in 2018, 13 in 2019. Kamara played a hybrid linebacker/edge role where his versatile tool set was on full display. He comes in to the league as a ball of clay that a team will try to have to mold. If he does improve his skill set, namely his performance against blockers and feel for the game, his upside rivals some of the best edge talent in the class. Kamara lacks staying power and core strength, but his length, speed, and bend-ability has presented the occasional flash that could get any NFL coach excited about his long term potential. He is a practice squad candidate for year one with enormous upside.
*Kamara is a shot-in-the-dark edge guy that will likely spend 2020 on a practice squad. Dallas signed him in free agency. I saw traits in his game that can be hard to find and he has the kind of frame that is worth trying to develop for a year. I really liked his tape against Oklahoma and Texas, two of his tougher matchups. That always means extra to me when these prospects elevate their game against other future pros.
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All in, I think NYG accomplished multiple things with their 2020 draft class. They used three picks on offensive linemen, a position group that have seen multiple failures over the past 5 years. I am very adamant that the line needs to be the first priority when employing a young quarterback and that notion is even stronger after you use a high pick on a running back. They added a couple talented pieces to the secondary, a nice compliment to the signing of cornerback James Bradberry in an effort to improve their pass defense which has finished bottom 5 in the NFL three straight years. The back end of the class is full of special teams-weapons and athletic back seven players that should add the much-needed element of speed to the defense as a whole. My one gripe, and I think it is legitimate, was they didn’t make an effort to bring in a pass rusher. Scheme this, scheme that. It is fallback line most coaches use when they know they lack talent up front in regard to hitting the quarterback. But as we all know, the team needs on this roster were never going to be filled with a lone draft class.
Now, we cross our fingers that the season will actually take place.
McKinny replacing Peppers? A perfect example (if it happens) of why Gettleman has not been that great so far at building a team.
Inherits a first team All Pro in Collins, 33rd overall pick in 2015 draft, lets him walk without even a trade. Replaces him with Peppers, the key element of the Beckham trade (not a 1st round draft pick but a "first round talent")
Now he's going to replace Peppers (25th in 2017 draft) at SS with McKinny at the cost of the 36th overall pick in the draft?
That's a lot of assets to be throwing at the SS position, while you spend nothing on the pass rush.
Only makes sense if one of the two plays free safety.
A lot of the issues seen the past two seasons on defense should largely go away, if these coaches know what they're doing and can teach. Most of it is miscommunication between the players, and many also trying to improv and do too much to help their neighbor.
I agree to a point. Miscommunication is a main culprit for many bad defenses though.
There is a chance he was recovering from an injury and needed a break. I think he has always been in that mid-day 3 tier no matter what.
Inherits a first team All Pro in Collins, 33rd overall pick in 2015 draft, lets him walk without even a trade.
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Inherits a first team All Pro in Collins, 33rd overall pick in 2015 draft, lets him walk without even a trade.
They got the 99th pick in this draft for Collins, so consider Matt Peart the guy they got in exchange for the severely overrated Collins who is costing a division rival a ton of cap room and playing like shit.
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Replaces him with Peppers, the key element of the Beckham trade (not a 1st round draft pick but a "first round talent").
He wasn't the key element in the trade, the first round pick from Cleveland was. The actual haul being Dexter Lawrence, Oshane Ximines, and Peppers.
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Now he's going to replace Peppers (25th in 2017 draft) at SS with McKinny at the cost of the 36th overall pick in the draft? Only makes sense if one of the two plays free safety.
McKinney will play free safety, so there, now it makes sense to you. Happy to be of help!
Thank you Milton! JFC the blind hatred for DG on this board from some of these guys is ridiculous and completely without logic.
I believe the Giants got the right man in Thomas , and for most of the off season Thomas was the #1 OT until the combine.
Pardon me for not being enamored with Wirfs Jumping ability,
In fact when does a Tackle every have to jump at all?
Possibly the Better Iowa Tackle stayed in school Alaric Jackson.
Peoples- Jones is a Stiff with no separating ability and average speed.
Almost everyone passed on The Wisconsin center because of the injury red flag, Giants were in no position to gamble.
so I respectfully disagree, and glad DG ran the draft.
I believe the Giants got the right man in Thomas , and for most of the off season Thomas was the #1 OT until the combine.
Pardon me for not being enamored with Wirfs Jumping ability,
In fact when does a Tackle every have to jump at all?
Possibly the Better Iowa Tackle stayed in school Alaric Jackson.
Peoples- Jones is a Stiff with no separating ability and average speed.
Almost everyone passed on The Wisconsin center because of the injury red flag, Giants were in no position to gamble.
so I respectfully disagree, and glad DG ran the draft.
Can always disagree!!! There would be zero fun if everyone agreed.
Sorry for the confusion.
Peoples- Jones is a Stiff with no separating ability and average speed.
I think some might agree with you, he was passed over many times. I dont know much about him myself, but I found it odd how he slid. What are we missing there?
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Hopefully he makes Peppers expendable very quickly.
McKinny replacing Peppers? A perfect example (if it happens) of why Gettleman has not been that great so far at building a team.
Inherits a first team All Pro in Collins, 33rd overall pick in 2015 draft, lets him walk without even a trade. Replaces him with Peppers, the key element of the Beckham trade (not a 1st round draft pick but a "first round talent")
Now he's going to replace Peppers (25th in 2017 draft) at SS with McKinny at the cost of the 36th overall pick in the draft?
That's a lot of assets to be throwing at the SS position, while you spend nothing on the pass rush.
Only makes sense if one of the two plays free safety.
It's likely that McKinney was far and away their highest rated player in which case they made a prudent selection.
Confirmation bias, you're looking for mistakes so everything you see is a mistake.
This coaching staff is going to scheme to their talent. McKinney has talent.
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the odd thing I saw in watching about 15 minutes of tape on him is he hesitates instead of firing out of his stance on run plays. It's like he's thinking too much or isn't confident in what he's doing. He's got to work on his hands, punch, and his functional upper body strength to get leverage and movement on his man. He's too big and athletic to play small.
I'm new to Peart as well. Just watched a couple videos on him plus if you are interested, re-watch the senior bowl, he plays a lot of snaps. The sense i got about him was, well you know how often you'll hear an OL guy talked about as a mauler or nasty. I see the opposite in him, however that doesn't mean he doesn't play to the whistle. It looks easy for him out there like he isn't even trying but gets the job done. He moves people in the run game and changes the line of scrimmage. Which would lead you to believe he is a mauler, but he doesn't look like a junkyard dog out there. He just kind of starts pushing on people and they move where he wants them to! He plays the angles and seems to know when to release and move on to make two blocks. He keeps his feet moving, an will just keep pushing his guy until he hears the whistle (even saw him push a guy to the sidelines). His wing span helps him so much. With coaching i think this kids is going to be real! good. He just has a mild demeanor about him (don't know if that is true or not, just what it seems from the videos).
Peart is essentially a poor man's Thomas, both use their gangly gumby arms to absorb defenders. Neither show much mauliness or wrecking ball strength, especially Peart.
McKinney may very well be the best safety in the draft, but what good is that going to be when QBs have 5 seconds to pass every down?
None. If Gross-Matos was off the board, I'm 100% with this pick, but this 'pass rush by committee' is bulshit. Even with Golden and a good front 3 we had shit for a pass rush.
That's not going to change with Williams holding out and Golden still not signed.
Ok that was funny
great write-up as usual.
As you said (or implied) - We need a couple/few more drafts to make a play-off team. We will get there sooner than later (I hope). Think it all depends on what we find with this year's team ... if there is a season.
Thanks again.
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In comment 14888766 JonC said:
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the odd thing I saw in watching about 15 minutes of tape on him is he hesitates instead of firing out of his stance on run plays. It's like he's thinking too much or isn't confident in what he's doing. He's got to work on his hands, punch, and his functional upper body strength to get leverage and movement on his man. He's too big and athletic to play small.
I'm new to Peart as well. Just watched a couple videos on him plus if you are interested, re-watch the senior bowl, he plays a lot of snaps. The sense i got about him was, well you know how often you'll hear an OL guy talked about as a mauler or nasty. I see the opposite in him, however that doesn't mean he doesn't play to the whistle. It looks easy for him out there like he isn't even trying but gets the job done. He moves people in the run game and changes the line of scrimmage. Which would lead you to believe he is a mauler, but he doesn't look like a junkyard dog out there. He just kind of starts pushing on people and they move where he wants them to! He plays the angles and seems to know when to release and move on to make two blocks. He keeps his feet moving, an will just keep pushing his guy until he hears the whistle (even saw him push a guy to the sidelines). His wing span helps him so much. With coaching i think this kids is going to be real! good. He just has a mild demeanor about him (don't know if that is true or not, just what it seems from the videos).
Peart is essentially a poor man's Thomas, both use their gangly gumby arms to absorb defenders. Neither show much mauliness or wrecking ball strength, especially Peart.
Wait what? Thomas in not a mauler? His pass pro needs some work but he is almost universally considered the best, most refined run blocker of the bunch with some serious nasty in there.
Pressure doesn’t mean sacks, our linemen can’t get after the quarterback, and both our current OLBs were non-factors. And the Giants haven’t done well whenever they haven’t had a top pass rusher in their corner, they just haven’t.
McKinney starts day 1 and will be a superb NFL player. I would have taken him and am glad we did.
Peart struck me as a raw talent, a poor man's Thomas perhaps, and has an upside but he is our weekly inactive tackle until he learns the technique required to get out there. We took him because if he learns quickly and flashes pass protect as the season moves along we have our starting RT and LT for the next 3 years, easy.
As for the rest of the draft, you know more than me. I am really hoping we hit some diamonds in the rough here.
Coulda fooled me. All I remember seeing is QB's week in and week out having unlimited time to throw.
No sir. All picks for mine are made based on what I would have chosen prior to.
Wirfs length and balance in space combined concern me. Good chance he kicks inside and Thomas is going to play Tackle. I look at that differently than some who'd argue that versatility is a bonus. It isn't in our situation and that's all that matters. For me Thomas was one of the top 2 OT's available.
As far as McKinney over Gross-Matos the fact we have his D-line coach on our staff and went in another direction has to be factored in. Literally no one in the game of football was in a better position to evaluate the young mans game and potential and we passed on him. I can't see anyway that happens if his coach felt he was going to become an impact player in the NFL.
Thanks again now we watch for a few years and see it all play out.
Vaccaro is a good player. He was in a faulty role in NO early on - even there he was a good run defender and reliable underneath. 2018-2019 = 2 good years in TEN. "Pro Bowler" - No. But a good starter.
Now a main reason why that is was due to the severe lack of talent on the entire defense with the exception of Xavien Howard, Jerome Baker, and Christian Wilkins. Graham tried to use Fitzpatrick so many different ways to overcompensate for his teammates which affected his play.
Once Fitzpatrick arrived in Miami he played up to his potential and established himself as one of the best safeties in football.
Xavier McKinney has a very similar skillset but luckily the Giants have significantly more talent in their secondary than Miami did last year. Peppers will likely play closer to the line of scrimmage allowing McKinney to play the centerfield role. I am looking forward to the 3 safety packages this season.
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anyone.? I realize KV was a 1st round pick, but his career hasn’t been that great. I hope XM turns into a better player than Vaccaro.
Vaccaro is a good player. He was in a faulty role in NO early on - even there he was a good run defender and reliable underneath. 2018-2019 = 2 good years in TEN. "Pro Bowler" - No. But a good starter.
Thanks Sy.
I have no idea who will be the better pro between Thomas and Wirfs, so I can't speak to that, BUT-- Your draft is much closer to what I envisioned for this draft in terms of how the needs stacked up with the value for NYG in each round.
I wanted to go:
--OT 1st (because we needed one of the top 4 and wouldn't get one past round 1),
--BPA Defensive player 2nd (with more emphasis on pass rusher, as you have here, but I will say I like McKinney).
--I wanted one of the decent Centers at #99/#110 (either Biadasz or Harris).
--I wanted a WR at SOME POINT on day 3, because it was obvious there was going to be terrific value there (as you have here with Peoples-Jones).
--And I wanted a punishing, short-yardage RB late in day 3 to soften up the defense a bit and take pressure off of Barkley (I was even thinking 6th round for this pick and that's exactly what you have here).
All-in-all it looks like you had similar thinking as me coming into this draft re: NYG needs vs. the value in this draft, which is nice to know I'm not crazy because I very much respect and value your opinion and analyses.
The one thing I did hope for also was to get a solid "jack of all trades" type TE who can do it all (run block, pass block, catch the ball, run routes, run after the catch, etc.) to complement Engram. I really think Jared Pinkney from Vandy will be a solid contributor at the next level, and the Falcons were able to sign him as a UDFA when the draft was over. I think he would have been a nice addition (or a player similar). I know nothing about the UDFA TE we signed-- hopefully he can be that guy.
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the decisions the Giants made during the draft or are your listed selections the same as they were in your original (final) mock draft?
No sir. All picks for mine are made based on what I would have chosen prior to.
Thanks for the clarification. Much appreciated.
Well, first of all it isn't common for a 5th rounder to start in year 1. Second, I think it is going to be hard and unlikely for a rookie to start in 2020 because the lack of offseason training at the facility. Third, NYG has been pretty adamant that they view Pulley as a starting caliber player at OC, that Nick Gates is going to get a shot at OC, and that Halapio may be back. I think those will be the first three options for NYG at OC. Sure, if all fail and/or get hurt, Lemieux will be the next man up. But I think they all view him as a backup / emergency guy for 2020.
Now a main reason why that is was due to the severe lack of talent on the entire defense with the exception of Xavien Howard, Jerome Baker, and Christian Wilkins. Graham tried to use Fitzpatrick so many different ways to overcompensate for his teammates which affected his play.
Once Fitzpatrick arrived in Miami he played up to his potential and established himself as one of the best safeties in football.
Xavier McKinney has a very similar skillset but luckily the Giants have significantly more talent in their secondary than Miami did last year. Peppers will likely play closer to the line of scrimmage allowing McKinney to play the centerfield role. I am looking forward to the 3 safety packages this season.
I think there was more ego-related stuff with Fitzpatrick than anything.
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anyone.? I realize KV was a 1st round pick, but his career hasn’t been that great. I hope XM turns into a better player than Vaccaro.
Vaccaro is a good player. He was in a faulty role in NO early on - even there he was a good run defender and reliable underneath. 2018-2019 = 2 good years in TEN. "Pro Bowler" - No. But a good starter.
I still think Julian Love is going to have a large part in this defense. I think he gets overlooked because he was moved all over and then when he took over for Peppers he played well there. I think he covers better than Peppers and is quicker. I also believe he missed some tackles because he was overly aggressive attacking the ball carrier, not for lack of wanting to tackle.
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the decisions the Giants made during the draft or are your listed selections the same as they were in your original (final) mock draft?
No sir. All picks for mine are made based on what I would have chosen prior to.
It would be interesting to see what you would pick given who the Giants had already picked as well as your "Sy Draft". Maybe next year? Thanks for all you do.
I believe the Giants got the right man in Thomas , and for most of the off season Thomas was the #1 OT until the combine.
Pardon me for not being enamored with Wirfs Jumping ability,
In fact when does a Tackle every have to jump at all?
Possibly the Better Iowa Tackle stayed in school Alaric Jackson.
Peoples- Jones is a Stiff with no separating ability and average speed.
Almost everyone passed on The Wisconsin center because of the injury red flag, Giants were in no position to gamble.
so I respectfully disagree, and glad DG ran the draft.
Thanks Dave, always good to hear from you.
How's the treatment for lymphoma going?
In comment [url=index.php?
mode=2&thread=597692&show_all=1#14889958]14889958[/url] Gruber said:
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I am grateful for all his pre draft insight ,but Glad he is not the GM.
I believe the Giants got the right man in Thomas , and for most of the off season Thomas was the #1 OT until the combine.
Pardon me for not being enamored with Wirfs Jumping ability,
In fact when does a Tackle every have to jump at all?
Possibly the Better Iowa Tackle stayed in school Alaric Jackson.
Peoples- Jones is a Stiff with no separating ability and average speed.
Almost everyone passed on The Wisconsin center because of the injury red flag, Giants were in no position to gamble.
so I respectfully disagree, and glad DG ran the draft.
Thanks Dave, always good to hear from you.
How's the treatment for lymphoma going?
Now a main reason why that is was due to the severe lack of talent on the entire defense with the exception of Xavien Howard, Jerome Baker, and Christian Wilkins. Graham tried to use Fitzpatrick so many different ways to overcompensate for his teammates which affected his play.
Once Fitzpatrick arrived in Miami he played up to his potential and established himself as one of the best safeties in football.
Xavier McKinney has a very similar skillset but luckily the Giants have significantly more talent in their secondary than Miami did last year. Peppers will likely play closer to the line of scrimmage allowing McKinney to play the centerfield role. I am looking forward to the 3 safety packages this season.
Jay that historical is a bit off re: Fitzpatrick's time in Miami.
First, he only played 2 games with Graham in Miami last year, a 59-10 blowout from Baltimore and a 43-0 blowout to NE. Not exactly ideal performance evaluation environments - though he did record a FF in 1 of those games.
Second, I would feel very confident speculating the main reason he demanded the trade was because the Dolphins were tanking post Tunsil trade and he just wanted out - and not Patrick Graham's usage. While I don't think he was lying when he said he preferred the way Pittsburgh allowed him to focus on 1 position I don't think it was a coincidence that never had those concerns earlier on in the offseason or training camp or the prior year or his entire career in Bama when his versatility was routinely cited as a positive attribute, but rather right after the Tunsil trade and the 2 noncompetitive beat downs.
Linked below is a good overview of the mostly positive sentiment re: Minkah in Miami prior to the Tunsil trade and embarrassing tank season became apparent. His rookie year with Gase as HC had been very solid and just as he'd done at Bama he excelled in a variety of positions.
For HC Brian Flores an DC Patrick Graham, Sophomore Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick Can Do it All - ( New Window )
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You mentioned that he could possibly start in 2021 - considering the OC depth chart and injuries, why would you rule out 2020?
Well, first of all it isn't common for a 5th rounder to start in year 1. Second, I think it is going to be hard and unlikely for a rookie to start in 2020 because the lack of offseason training at the facility. Third, NYG has been pretty adamant that they view Pulley as a starting caliber player at OC, that Nick Gates is going to get a shot at OC, and that Halapio may be back. I think those will be the first three options for NYG at OC. Sure, if all fail and/or get hurt, Lemieux will be the next man up. But I think they all view him as a backup / emergency guy for 2020.
Makes sense - thanks
Jay that historical is a bit off re: Fitzpatrick's time in Miami.
First, he only played 2 games with Graham in Miami last year, a 59-10 blowout from Baltimore and a 43-0 blowout to NE. Not exactly ideal performance evaluation environments - though he did record a FF in 1 of those games.
Second, I would feel very confident speculating the main reason he demanded the trade was because the Dolphins were tanking post Tunsil trade and he just wanted out - and not Patrick Graham's usage. While I don't think he was lying when he said he preferred the way Pittsburgh allowed him to focus on 1 position I don't think it was a coincidence that never had those concerns earlier on in the offseason or training camp or the prior year or his entire career in Bama when his versatility was routinely cited as a positive attribute, but rather right after the Tunsil trade and the 2 noncompetitive beat downs.
Linked below is a good overview of the mostly positive sentiment re: Minkah in Miami prior to the Tunsil trade and embarrassing tank season became apparent. His rookie year with Gase as HC had been very solid and just as he'd done at Bama he excelled in a variety of positions. For HC Brian Flores an DC Patrick Graham, Sophomore Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick Can Do it All - ( New Window )
Thanks Eric, I thought he played more games than that. My buddy is a huge Phins fan and he was disappointed that Fitzpatrick was traded but he did mention that he wasn't playing as well as expected.
I think you're right that the Phins tanking played a role in his performance along with the lack of talent around him.
It's impossible to judge Graham's performance in Miami because he had the league's least talented defense. During the second half of the season Miami was starting cornerbacks that they had just signed off the street that week. Giants cast off John Jenkins started the entire season for them at DT.
Former Giant Avery Moss started 8 games for the Dolphins last year.
Fitzpatrick reached a max speed of 21.48 on his 96-yard interception return TD, the 14th fastest speed by a ballcarrier in the NFL this season.
Minkah is much faster than Xavier McKinney.
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In comment 14888876 BigBlueCane said:
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Hopefully he makes Peppers expendable very quickly.
McKinny replacing Peppers? A perfect example (if it happens) of why Gettleman has not been that great so far at building a team.
Inherits a first team All Pro in Collins, 33rd overall pick in 2015 draft, lets him walk without even a trade. Replaces him with Peppers, the key element of the Beckham trade (not a 1st round draft pick but a "first round talent")
Now he's going to replace Peppers (25th in 2017 draft) at SS with McKinny at the cost of the 36th overall pick in the draft?
That's a lot of assets to be throwing at the SS position, while you spend nothing on the pass rush.
Only makes sense if one of the two plays free safety.
It's likely that McKinney was far and away their highest rated player in which case they made a prudent selection.
Confirmation bias, you're looking for mistakes so everything you see is a mistake.
This coaching staff is going to scheme to their talent. McKinney has talent.
This is addressed to all who were thoughtful enough to address my comment.
I certainly do not hate poor old Gettleman. I just disagree with almost all of the moves he has made since becoming GM.
You have the much more widely held "glad we got rid of that overrated veteran who was asking for/was receiving more money than he deserved. And then they throw in an irrelevant reference to cap-space, showing that they have not been paying attention to the annual increases since the last CBA.
It is very rare for a team to have to dump a player for lack of cap space. Have you noticed the lack of restructured contracts over the last few years.
I didn't like it when Gettleman came in and "cleaned house" by divesting the team of the few talents they had. And most of these players are still playing.
Landon Collins, one of those overpaid, overrated players that you hate. This is not a good time to discuss his talent. He was a first team All Pro in 2016. He did not have a standout year for the two win Redskins, although of course he led the team in tackles. He led the Giants in tackles when he only played in 12 games. We'll check back on him in a couple of years.
JPP. He was washed up. The team had no faith in him any more. He was overpaid. Well, Tampa is very pleased with him, not just for his play but for his leadership. He has grown up. In 26 games for the Bucs we see 21 sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 9 stuffs, 4 passes defensed. He is a productive player. Was he overpaid? So what. Everywhere some employees are underpaid and some overpaid.
Elsewhere, Jenkins took a pay cut but signed a two year deal with the Saints and is set to start for them at corner. Weston Richburg signed a five year deal with the Niners to continue to start at center.
And Justin Pugh started all 16 games at guard, but the Cardinals are another terrible team and I don't know how good he is. When you see linemen like Westburg and Pugh, two players who cost high draft choices moving on to success and new contracts from other teams, does it at all cross your mind that Gettleman may have made a mistake? I wonder whether lousy coaching has been a bigger problem than untalented linemen? I recall that the 2007 Giant team started in the playoffs at left tackle David Diehl, a fifth round draft pick, as well as Shaun O'Hara and Rich Seuter two undrafted free agents.
Now San Francisco, New Orleans and Tampa Bay are much better than the Giants. If they could take three Giant castoffs and use them as starters and give all of them new contracts, how is it that the pitiful Giant team could not do the same. No criticism of Gettleman justified?
You are happy with the guy now because you think all the draftees are going to live up to every nice thing said about them. That won't happen.
Fitzpatrick reached a max speed of 21.48 on his 96-yard interception return TD, the 14th fastest speed by a ballcarrier in the NFL this season.
Minkah is much faster than Xavier McKinney.
During his 40 yard dash at the combine McKinney hit a top speed of 21.4 mpg. Apparently with that top speed, his expected time should have been a 4.55, which is close to what he said he'd been running in training (expected 40 and top speed at the link below). So that lends some credence to the cramps forcing him to pull up and run the slower time.
Fitzpatrick for his part ran a 4.46 with a max mph of 21.76, but both his jumps were actually a few inches less than McKinney's - so he didn't test as a better athlete across the board. Neither of them did the short shuttle or the 3 cone, so the 40 was actually the only event Minkah did better in.
Minkah may be the faster player but I don't think it's by all that much.
Xavier McKinney RAS - ( New Window )
[quote] LOL Asswipe , No I am not Gettleman. But I question everything, while I like and respect Sy I do not genuflect to everything he writes.
You also seem to have a sense of humour by-pass.