Why Zack Baun should be the 2nd round pick for the NY Giants
By David Solow
After passing on Isaiah Simmons, Zack Baun can be the versatile chess piece the NY Giants need for Patrick Graham’s multiple defense
At the Senior Bowl, Zack Baun played a lot of off-ball linebacker to showcase his versatility. Because he is considered small for an NFL edge player, some GMs project Baun as a weak-side linebacker in the 4-3 defense. Anthony Barr, an edge player in college for UCLA, made a similar transition with the Vikings.
What position would Baun play for the Giants? He could play all over in Patrick Graham’s scheme, depending on the opponent, down and distance, and personnel on the field. Baun’s 4.6 40-yard dash speed is proof that he can handle going sideline to sideline for the G-Men.
Patrick Graham doesn’t play a true 3-4 or 4-3 defense and considers himself multiple. Baun is someone that he can move around the formation to confuse opposing offenses. The Badger’s ability in coverage is another attribute the Giants are lacking among their stable of linebackers.
On third downs, Graham can use Baun to blitz off the edge. His jump off the snap, expert use of hand technique and leverage, and quickness (his 10-yard split was one of the quickest at the combine) will enable him to get after the quarterback on obvious passing downs.
Should the NY Giants be concerned that Zack Baun tested positive for a diluted sample at the NFL combine? I don’t believe so. Dexter Lawrence was suspended during the 2018 college football season for a similar infraction, and it did not prevent the Giants from drafting him in the first round last season.
Next. 5 Terrific options potentially still on board for NY Giants at pick #36. dark
Baun wore #56 at Wisconsin for the Badgers, but he would need to find a new number if he joined Big Blue. Giants fans should be rooting for the linebacker to be drafted by Gettleman and find a new number in New York.