Trying to make sense of a weird Day 2 by the NY Giants
By Toby Grundy
NY Giants Round 3 (81 Overall) Cor’dale Flott, CB, LSU
The Giants finally addressed cornerback, a key position of need on this roster with the likely departure of James Bradberry. Like the other two picks on Day 2, it wasn’t a prospect who many had expected to come that early and was definitely not on the radar of many Giants fans.
Flott is undersized for a cornerback, at 6-foot-1,175 lbs. Much like the critics of the Robinson selection in round two, it has been the main point of attack on Flott. With Wink Martindale’s defense having the tendency to leave cornerbacks out on an island, I do think it’s a valid concern to have.
He does however have a number of traits that were no doubt attractive to this coaching staff and the rebuild of this roster. Forgive me if you’ve heard this before, but he’s a versatile player.
As described by Spencer Schultz of Baltimore Beatdown, Martindale likes playing “positionless defense”. Flott certainly fits that mold, with experience at LSU playing in the slot, outside, deep as a safety and a willingness to help out in the run game. He had 40 tackles in each of the last two seasons and is more than willing to take on the ball carrier, despite his size.
Schoen himself has already commented on how they plan to utilize Flott in an article by John Fennelly of Giants Wire:
"“I think position one, ideally, he’s inside, but he can play inside and outside. He has height, and he does have length,” Schoen told reporters on Friday. “And again, the kid is 20 years old. I believe he turns 21 in August or September. I think it’s August. So still young, still developing. Three-year guy at LSU that played in a really talented backfield and a good conference. We’re excited. He’s got really good movement skills to play inside, but with the size and length, can play outside as well.”"
Schoen’s comments all but confirm the strategy of selecting versatile pieces for the rebuild of the franchise. The selection likely means 2021 selection Aaron Robinson will play opposite Adoree Jackson on the outside.
Flott certainly has the speed and athleticism to contribute to Martindale’s “organized chaos” and will be an incredibly interesting prospect to watch during the season. Despite the concerns with his weight, he does have decent length and at still just 20 years old if he can take some tips from Evan Neal’s workout and nutrition plan, he might just be able to add some size to his slender frame.
Hot. NY Giants draft a true ballhawk safety in Dane Belton. light
Summary
The Day 2 picks certainly brought with them criticism from the fan base. It is evident that the new front office has a clear draft strategy to fill this roster with talented, versatile pieces. While many may not agree with the specific prospects, it’s refreshing to see a general manager with a concrete strategy and a plan to add players to this roster who can contribute in a variety of ways in New York.