New York Giants: 10 worst draft busts of Jerry Reese era

No. 4 – Clint Sintim LB, Virginia 2nd Rd (45th) 2009

Another potential gem from that underwhelming 2009 draft class, Clint Sintim came into his rookie year with more pressure than usual for a second round linebacker. Already at this point in his tenure, Reese was criticized for undervaluing the linebacker position. Sintim was the highest selection ever used on the position in Reese’s decade on the job.

An elite pass rusher at the college level, the University of Virginia product led all players at the position in sacks as a senior to finish off a decorated college career. Three times an All-ACC selection (once on the freshman team), Sintim seemed primed to have a long, productive NFL career.

The issue with Sintim seemed more to do about playing in the totally wrong scheme and defense than with talent. Draft reports called for him to flourish in a 3-4 defense as a pass rush specialist. The Giants thought they could groom him into a capable pass defender in their traditional 4-3, and were burned for it accordingly.

The linebacker played two completely uninspiring seasons for the Giants before tearing his ACL twice at the end of his tenure. Compiling just 33 tackles and 1 sack in his Giants career, Sintim never put together even a semblance of a solid season. He was an utter disaster in space as well, and was constantly targeted by opposing coordinators in the pass game.