Who should the NY Giants target in the 2nd round of the NFL draft?
By David Solow
Zack Baun-Edge/LB,Wisconsin
Why would he be a good value for the Giants in the 2nd round? Zack Baun might be the best edge prospect after Chase Young in the 2020 draft. The only reason he could fall to the Giants in the second round is his size is not prototypical for a full-time NFL edge. For the Giants, Baun can be a versatile defender for Patrick Graham’s scheme and can make plays all over the field.
Baun’s 7 second 3-cone drill at the combine backed up the twitchy athleticism he showed on tape in the Big 10. The Giants desperately need better pass rushers, and Baun has natural pass-rush ability.
What does he excel at? Baun terrorized college quarterbacks with 12.5 sacks in 2019. I believe Baun is at his best when he is getting after the quarterback with his speed and leverage. He is great at anticipating snap counts, has a very high football IQ, and his versatility in coverage should be seen as a strength.
Zack Baun, Edge/LB, Wisconsin-
— Ryder McConville (@RyderM25) March 25, 2020
- Highly Athletic
- Manipulates OT's with footwork
- Technically advanced pass rusher
- Quick Hands
- Shoulder dips to reduce surface area
- Versatility to play coverage/rush
- Disciplined vs run
- Understanding of leverage#NFLDraft #OnWisconsin pic.twitter.com/2ZFKfodKNz
Why the Giants might hesitate: There has been talk of Baun converting to an off-ball linebacker like Anthony Barr in the NFL. At 238 pounds, Baun lacks the ideal size for an edge player in the NFL. Despite his lack of size, Baun was able to hold up well against the run in college.
Personal excitement level if drafted: (9.5/10) I think Baun would be a home-run pick for the Giants. He could step in on day one and become the Giants’ best edge player. The pass rush is still the Giants’ most glaring weakness, and Baun would certainly help in that department.
Likelihood he will fall to #36: (3.5/10)