Giants Draft 2014: Pick by Pick Analysis and Grades
By Felix Davila
Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
4th Round (#113 overall): Andre Williams, RB, Boston College
James’ Take:
It is hard to argue the value of this pick, as I was surprised to see Williams slip as far as he did. He is a bruising back who should serve as a great replacement for Andre Brown. Williams is also very good in pass protection, which should endear him to Eli Manning. The main reason why this grade isn’t higher is because I am a little bit leery of another Giants running back who, admittedly, doesn’t catch the ball.
GRADE: B-
Felix’s Take:
At first I wasn’t a fan of the selection with running backs like Ka’Deem Carey on the board who have more experience in the passing game than Williams. But what I couldn’t deny after more film study was the physicality he brings to the table as an intense bruiser back. Not only is he a Boston College alum (as Tom Coughlin loves) but Williams is a true throwback ball carrier who grinds out tough yards. As a Heisman finalist with over 2,000 yards rushing last year, he can be a bell cow on short yardage situations but is talented and durable enough to handle an extended workload. His running style brings the “earth” to what seems to be a renewed “Earth, Wind & Fire” combo with Jennings and Wilson. Williams was a steal here and the Giants realized it, nabbing an ideally sized bruiser instead of the 5’9” Carey. Indeed, a better pick.
GRADE: B+