NFL Draft 2022: New York Giants’ top Day 2 targets

Kyren Williams- Notre Dame, RB

Why would he be a good value pick for the New York Giants?

Williams was highly productive for the Fighting Irish, rushing for over 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns in 2021. The Notre Dame product was a highly regarded high school receiver, and is excellent at running routes and making plays out of the backfield. His best trait might be his pass protection though, where he is more than willing to put his body on the line to give his QB extra time to throw.

Williams is quick and agile enough to escape penetrators from making instant tackles for loss. The small but slippery running back would be a good value at the end of the third round because of his elusiveness, versatility, and football intelligence.

How would he fit with the NY Giants?

Williams could be a third-down type for the Giants as a rookie. Saquon Barkley is the only safe bet at the position (for now) to be on the team entering week one after the recent release of Devonte Booker. Williams would be the leading candidate to back up Saquon if they took him on day 2.

NFL Combine Stats: Stock Up or Stock Down

HEIGHT: 5′ 9″

WEIGHT: 194 lbs

ARMS: 28 5/8″

HANDS: 9″

40 Yard Dash: 4.65

Vertical Jump: 32

Broad Jump: 116

Stock Down: Williams had the slowest 40 time among running backs at the combine. That being said, he is quicker than he is fast. His combine performance could cause him to fall further than expected.

New York Giants Player Comparison: Dion Lewis/Shane Vereen

Williams will definitely find a role as a pass catching/3rd down running back in the NFL, but does he have more upside? Some scouts believe he can eventually develop into an Austin Ekeler type.