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

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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 /

Reuben Foster, Alabama Crimson Tide

Age: 22 (4/4/1994)
Height & Weight: 6’1″ & 236 pounds
2016 Season Statistics: 15 GP, 115 tackles, 13.0 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks

The likelihood of Reuben Foster falling to No. 23 overall is slim to none. Inside linebackers often slide down draft boards, however, and if he comes within reach of the New York Giants, it would behoove Jerry Reese to do what’s necessary to make him a member of Big Blue.

Foster is the best inside linebacker in this draft class and one could argue that there isn’t a close second—more a testament to his talent than the depth of this class.

There’s a growing belief that Foster will be better as an outside linebacker in a 4-3 defense. He’s perfectly suited to be an inside linebacker in a 3-4 defense, but there’s rational concern that he isn’t built to be a MIKE in the 4-3.

If Reese, Ben McAdoo, and Steve Spagnuolo decide otherwise, however, Foster would be the perfect addition to the Giants’ defense.

This wouldn’t be the first time New York has drafted an Alabama player who doesn’t project to fit the mold. Landon Collins was believed to be weak in pass coverage, but has since become an elite defensive player.

By placing Foster in the middle, the Giants would land the thunderous tackler necessary to further solidify the run defense behind Damon Harrison.

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