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NY Giants: Evaluating impact of rookie class | Grades

By Danny Friedman

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Saquon Barkley of Penn State poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being picked #2 overall by the New York Giants during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: Saquon Barkley of Penn State poses with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell after being picked #2 overall by the New York Giants during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /
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New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos (57) celebrates after an interception in the third quarter during an NFL Week 12 football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. The New York Giants won 19-17.New York Giants At Cincinnati Bengals Nov 29
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos (57) celebrates after an interception in the third quarter during an NFL Week 12 football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. The New York Giants won 19-17.New York Giants At Cincinnati Bengals Nov 29 /

UDFA: EDGE/LB Niko Lalos, Dartmouth

Niko Lalos was one of the best feel-good stories about the NY Giants 2020 season.

The product from Lebron James’ very own uproots, St. Vincent St. Mary, was a terrific story and pleasant surprise for the Giants defense.

Lalos made his NFL debut in Week 12 in the team’s win in Cincinnati. In only eight defensive snaps, Lalos found a way to come up with a game-changing play thanks to a diving interception off a tipped pass. The interception directly led to an ensuing field goal from Graham Gano which ended up being the difference in the game as NY won 19-17.

Lalos followed suit again the following week in Seattle. Facing one of the league’s best offenses, Lalos took advantage of the opportunity presented to him as he ripped and fought his way to a fumble recovery off a Wilson fumble.

Lalos never started a game yet came up with two timely turnovers in back-to-back wins. He received plenty of buzz as an undrafted Ivy League player and was getting love and shoutouts on Twitter from Lebron James himself.

The viral sensation was a great subplot in the Giants season. Lalos’ turnover streak didn’t last but he proved to deserve more snaps for the future.

Rookie Year Grade: A

2021 Role and Beyond:

By no means a lock to make the 2021 team, Lalos will again have to fight for a roster spot in 2021. This is the normal life of an undrafted, year or year two NFL player.

While Lalos was on a hot streak for two games, he must stay consistent to stay in the league and on this team long-term. He has the will to compete and the ability to prove people wrong already, Lalos’ underdog story will continue into training camp next year with some intense position battles to settle the team;’s edge, linebackers, and special teams units.

UDFA: WR Austin Mack, Ohio State

Austin Mack was another pleasant surprise for the NY Giants. Mack carved a role out in the offense and showed his willingness to block and ability to get open and make catches.

Mack saw time in 11 games with one start. In that time, he saw numerous opportunities come his way with some success and some missed opportunities.

Mack hauled in only seven catches and 91 yards but he was a positive presence on the Giants’ offense. He was a blocker on several rush attempts and he had the ability to set an edge and move defenders upfield.

Rookie Year Grade: C+

2021 Role and Beyond:

Mack will be back in 2021. He will get every opportunity in camp and during the offseason o further establish and create a role in this offense. With Golden Tate unlikely to return, the team will need somebody to fill his spot in the slot at receiver.

Mack will be one of many vying for roster spots inside the receiver’s room. He will need to fend off returning players on the roster, the practice squad, and newcomers through the draft and free agency. Dave Gettleman openly talked about how the team is going add playmakers on offense and Mack must come in good shape and have another strong offseason in his sophomore season.

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