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New York Giants: Inside Linebackers To Consider In 2017 NFL Draft

By Maxwell Ogden

Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) communicates at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 31, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Reuben Foster (10) communicates at the line of scrimmage during the fourth quarter in the 2016 CFP Semifinal against the Washington Huskies at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Corey Clement (6) tries to get past LSU Tigers defensive end Tashawn Bower (46) and linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) in the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers running back Corey Clement (6) tries to get past LSU Tigers defensive end Tashawn Bower (46) and linebacker Kendell Beckwith (52) in the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports /

Kendell Beckwith, LSU Tigers

Age: 22 (12/2/1994)
Height & Weight: 6’3″ & 247 pounds
2016 Season Statistics: 10 GP, 91 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, 1 fumble recovered

Kendell Beckwith is the physically imposing middle linebacker that many teams covet in run defense. He’s acceptable in zone coverage and naturally competitive, but the true appeal is his power in tackling runners head-on.

There are other options to consider, but Beckwith’s combination of strength and physicality will be tough to pass up in a division with Ezekiel Elliott.

Beckwith suffered a torn ACL during the 2016 season, which is a red flag that must be acknowledged and monitored. When healthy, however, Beckwith has been one of the best linebackers in the country.

The fair and obvious question pertaining to Beckwith is simple: can he return to 100 percent and become the player he’s capable of being?

Beckwith’s greatest strength is his ability to take on runners and shake off blockers. He’s an athletic phenom who can cover ground and has the competitive edge to take down even the strongest of running backs.

Beckwith could fall down draft boards due to his injury, which makes him an ideal mid-round acquisition for Jerry Reese and the Giants.

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