Top 3 players the NY Giants must select in Round 2 of the 2022 NFL Draft
NY Giants Round 2 Target: LB Leo Chenal, Wisconsin
For the same reasons as Quay Walker, I believe the Giants should look to draft Leo Chenal due to their lack of talent at the linebacker position. However, unlike Quay Walker, Leo Chenal has a definite upside to being a star in this league. His floor is just not as high as Quay Walkers.
Coming in at 6’3, 250 pounds, Leo Chenal had a monster season at Wisconsin this year. In 11 games, Chenal tallied 99 tackles, 10 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 8 QB hits. Another interesting thing to look at with Leo Chenal is his numbers at the combine. While he did not participate in all of the events, he showed out in the ones he did. For example, in the 40-yard dash, he ran a 4.53, and in the vertical jump, he showcased a ridiculous 40-inch vertical.
Leo Chenal is a beast when it comes to tackling, showing his immense power and technique to make it very hard for offensive players to get around him. However, he still has a lot to work on. For example, he is not the most fluid when he goes to tackle, which could keep him from becoming consistent at the pro level. However, his dedication to football is unmatched, so I truly believe in his upside to become a far better talent.
While Leo Chenal may not have everything down from a technical standpoint, his upside truly excites me. As he has all of the physical and mental traits to become a star in this league. If he can get in the lab to work on his game, I believe he truly has the potential to be a star in this league.
It may take some time for Leo Chenal to fully blossom into the start I think he can be. However, this should not stop the Giants from drafting him. Because if he reaches the potential that I and many others think he has, it will be a scary sight for the league.