NFL Draft: 5 Defensive prospects New York Giants must have on big board
By Reese Nasser
Notre Dame S, Kyle Hamilton
Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton could potentially be the best prospect in this year’s draft. With the possibility of losing veteran safety Jabrill Peppers to free agency, Hamilton is the type of player that should be right atop the Giants big board.
At 6’4 and 220 pounds, Hamilton is built like a modern-day hybrid linebacker. His elite speed and range allows for him to be an effective playmaker in the secondary, regardless of who he is matched up against.
During his time at Notre Dame, Hamilton made his case to be the best defender in college football. Over 31 career games, he recorded 138 total tackles, 7.5 sacks, eight interceptions, and 16 defended passes.
Through his ability to defend any opposing receiver, Hamilton will be able to contribute at a high level from day-one. His impact would also be felt in the run game as he has proven to be one of the best tacklers in football and has been known to track down players in the backfield.
The addition of Hamilton would impact this defense instantly, and in a way that some other prospects might not be able to. A pairing of Xavier McKinney and Hamilton could be one of the most intriguing young duos in the NFL.