5 Terrific players left on the board for NY Giants at #36 (part one)
1. FS Antoine Winfield Jr. – Minnesota
One of the fastest risers during the latter of the 2020 NFL Draft process, free safety Antoine Winfield Jr. was widely expected to land in the back half of the first round of the draft. However, not a single free safety was selected, and in turn, my second-highest rated FS is still right there for the taking for the NY Giants.
Although he stands at just 5’9, Winfield Jr. is a true center fielder that is one of the few safeties in this draft that can play single high and make a mammoth difference in the deep passing game. He makes up for his lack of size with fast-twitch abilities, timing, and instincts — all super-important traits for free safety.
His single best trait is recovery ability and speed, as seen in the clips below, which is paramount for an elite free safety.
Giants Round 2 Pick 36
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) April 23, 2020
Minnesota S Antoine Winfield Jr
This kills two birds with one stone because you can move Julian Love to the nickel corner. Winfield is a playmaking baller with great ball skills. Best player available at an important position. pic.twitter.com/UZygscJeem
Winfield Jr. battled injuries during two of his seasons with the Golden Gophers before exploding in his redshirt ‘sophomore’ campaign in 2019 that saw him rack up 63 tackles, 3 sacks, and 7 interceptions. He was a first-team All-American, the Big Ten Defensive Back of the Year, and was a major reason for Minnesota’s resurgence back to national recognition.
The NY Giants have not had a true ball-hawking, rangy free safety since Antrel Rolle and Winfield fits that bill in spades. He would be a terrific pick for Big Blue at #36 and the selection would allow Julian Love to slide back into his more natural role of slot cornerback.
GMENHQ Grade: 1st rounder: B
Team need: 7/10
Chance he falls to #36: 90%