Athletic freaks the NY Giants should target in each round of the NFL Draft
By David Solow
Round 1 Targets
Isaiah Simmons-LB, Clemson
Why the NY Giants should target him: Isaiah Simmons is the defensive playmaker that the Giants desperately need. I already wrote an article that explains why the front office would regret passing on Simmons in the first round. He is the ultimate chess piece for the modern NFL defense and can help the Giants in so many ways.
Freakish athleticism: At 6 feet 4 inches and 238 pounds, Simmons ran a 4.39 40 yard dash. His 39 inch vertical and 132-inch broad jump demonstrates the explosive athleticism that allowed him to dominate college football. His ability to cover ground quickly is what enables Simmons to shut down tight ends in coverage and even play deep-half safety on occasion.
Personal excitement level if drafted: (9/10) Simmons is one of the only players from the draft that would immediately make the Giants defense a much better unit. I feel that his ability to blitz and get after the quarterback is underrated. His closing speed and football IQ will make him a dangerous blitzer on the NFL level.
Isaiah Simmons creeps toward the LOS before the snap, acting like he's going to blitz. Then stops to spy on the quarterback, and quickly makes his move when he's outside the pocket. His discipline and closing speed is what makes him an effective pass-rusher #GiantsPride #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/YQfq4Zs65J
— WBG84 (@WBG84) October 24, 2019
Tristan Wirfs-OT, Iowa
Why the NY Giants should target him: The Giants desperately need to fix the offensive line. Tristan Wirfs would immediately start at right or left tackle. Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley would be the biggest beneficiaries of Wirfs uber athleticism and toughness.
Freakish athleticism: Tristan Wirfs athleticism is otherworldly. Not only did the 320-pound offensive tackle run a 4.86 (!!) 40-yard dash, he broke the NFL scouting combine record for an offensive lineman in the vertical and broad jumps. His historically great NFL combine workout backed up three excellent years of excellent and athletic play for the Iowa Hawkeyes.
Personal excitement level if drafted: (7/10) The knock on Wirfs is that he lacks ideal length for an NFL offensive tackle, which is why some believe he will move inside to guard. I feel like his tape from college and display of athleticism at the NFL combine show that he would be fine at tackle in the NFL. When defenders were asked during the combine who was the best offensive lineman they went up against in college, Wirfs was the most common answer.
Wisconsin LB Zack Baum was asked which tackle was the toughest to face:
— Scott Dochterman (@ScottDochterman) February 27, 2020
“The right tackle from Iowa, Tristan Wirfs. He’s a big, powerful dude, can move his feet very well. Truly an elite tackle.”
Mekhi Becton-OT, Louisville
Why the NY Giants should target him: Mekhi Becton is the offensive lineman with the highest upside in the 2020 NFL draft. The 364-pound tackle could create gaping holes for Saquon Barkley. He is extremely nimble for a man his size and could eventually develop into an elite pass protector as well.
Freakish athleticism: Becton is not your typical 364-pound offensive lineman. He only has 17% body fat and looked very smooth running an incredible 5.10 40-time. He is the most physically impressive player to enter the NFL draft in a long time.
Personal excitement level if drafted: (6/10) It would be fun to watch Becton pancake defensive backs downfield, but he is the offensive lineman with the highest bust potential. A defensive playmaker like Simmons would be a much safer pick in my opinion. Gentleman does love his hog mollies though.
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