3 Prospects the New York Giants could target if they trade back in the draft

Trevor Penning, Tackle

Northern Iowa’s Trevor Penning may be the best pass blocker in this year’s class. Penning regularly blew up opposing defenders and created a path for his offense to run through. At 6-7 and 325 pounds, Penning has the size to disrupt anyone he is lined up against.

It’s also worth noting that he ran a 4.89 40-yard dash, an insane, and notable feat for a person his size.

Penning finished with an overall PFF grade of 97.3 last season. This was the number one grade of all eligible tackles. He also posted a run-blocking grade of 99.9, a near-perfect rating.

When looking at Penning’s accomplishments, it is also worth noting the competition that he faced. The level of competition that Northern Iowa faced regularly lacks in comparison to that of the top-level division 1 schools. Prospects such as Alabamas Evan Neal or NC State’s Ikem Ekwonu have built a much more solidified resume compared to Penning.

The most notable competition that Penning faced last season was Iowa State. This game took place week one and was coincidently Penning’s worst outing of last season. Even so, he posted an overall grade of 67.8 and a pass-blocking rate of 76.1, one of his highest of the season.

When looking past the competition that he faced, Penning is one of the most dominating tackles we have seen in a while. He allowed just one sack, four hits, and six pressures last season. Over his entire career, he recorded 1,995 total snaps on offense. During that time he allowed just 43 total pressures.

When watching Penning, there isn’t much to critique about his game. He has been described as a “bully” on the field and plays with an attitude that people look for in an offensive lineman.

Want your voice heard? Join the GMEN HQ team!

Write for us!

It is important to note that Penning has played just nine snaps at right tackle, and none over the past two seasons. With Andrew Thomas locking down the left tackle spot, Penning would be forced to move to a spot that he has gained virtually n0 on-field reps at.

Penning has the potential to be great at the next level, especially if he is given time to develop. If he can take the necessary steps, he could become the best tackle out of this year’s class in the near future.