Why Cam Brown is such a unique player for the NY Giants

2. Versatility:

Cam Brown’s length adds to his versatility as well. According to PFF, Brown played 273 snaps at slot-corner for the Nittany Lions. His long arms and athleticism helped him to cover tight ends and certain slot receivers.

Brown also played 259 snaps in the box at linebacker, 89 snaps on the defensive line, and even eight snaps at free safety. He is a true hybrid linebacker because he can do so many different things on the football field. He allows Patrick Graham to take away the other team’s strengths in certain matchups.

An underrated aspect of Brown’s game is his ability to get after the passer. He demonstrates quickness when accelerating towards the quarterback and plays faster than his recorded 4.72 40-yard dash time. He recorded twelve sacks for Penn State over the last two seasons.

Another way Brown can help the NY Giants is on special teams. His speed, length, and nose for the football could allow Brown to be a weapon for Judge to utilize on almost every special teams unit. With his long arms, he has the ability to block kicks for the G-Men.

Joe Judge is going to love that type of versatility. 

“Freshman and sophomore year, it was how I made my money, honestly,” Brown said. “It was how I got on the field. Freshman year, I played every special teams, kickoff, kick return, punt, punt return. Made some plays on kickoff and punt return,” Brown explained after the draft. 

In 2016, in a big game against Ohio State, Brown blocked a punt for the Nittany Lions in a huge upset win. Those are the kind of plays Joe Judge will be hoping for.

To earn playing time for the defense, Brown will need to stand out on special teams. Because of Joe Judge’s background, the special teams unit will be a top priority. The versatile linebacker should be able to excel with kickoff and punt coverage.