Reviewing the NY Giants rookies after the first quarter of the 2022 season
LB Micah McFadden (Round 5 , No. 146 overall)
Coming out of college, Micah McFadden was seen as a good run defender who had a ton of potential as a blitzer. This seemed like a match made in heaven for new defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. However, throughout the first four games, we have not really seen either of these aspects out of McFadden.
In four games played, McFadden has racked up eight combined tackles, however, his reaction time against the run has looked a little slow. In addition to this, McFadden’s ability in the blitz has not looked as good as we thought it might. In seven blitz attempts, McFadden has only registered one QB hurry.
The linebacker core of the NY Giants is very weak now that the team is without Blake Martinez. Meaning that when McFadden was drafted, he had a lot of expectations to step up and potentially play a big role. Despite this, when given the opportunity, McFadden has not looked that great.
Only time will tell how McFadden pans out, as we still believe he has plenty of potential to turn things around. However, the first four games have not been too kind for the former Indiana Hoosier.
DL D.J Davidson (Round 5, No. 147 overall)
Out of all the rookies who have been healthy thus far, D.J Davidson is the one we’ve seen the least. In four games, Davidson has only appeared in 15 percent of the NY Giants defensive snaps. In these snaps, Davidson has tallied just four combined tackles, which honestly is not that bad considering how little he has played.
After losing both Danny Shelton and Austin Johnson, it was unknown what the NY Giants would do at nose guard. After drafting Davidson, it seemed like they may have had their answer. Despite this, Martindale has preferred to go with the much heavier Justin Ellis, who has been pretty solid for the team.
It was very clear that Davidson needed to work on a lot of things as a run-stopper and pass-rusher coming out of college. However, Davidson is already 25, so he really doesn’t have much time to develop. Barring an injury to someone on the defensive line, it is quite unclear on the future Davidson will have with this team.
LB Darrian Beavers (Round 6, No. 182 overall)
Darrian Beavers’ season may have been cut short early due to a torn ACL in the preseason. However, this does not mean we’re going to ignore the strong play he showcased during his time on the field. It really seemed like Beavers had a shot of starting alongside Tae Crowder in the regular season.
At Cincinnati, Beavers was a specialist in coverage, something the NY Giants need desperately at the linebacker position. During his time in the preseason, it seemed as if this translated for the 23 year old.
It was quite heartbreaking to see Beavers’ season end the way it did, as he really had a promising start and seemed like he could make an impact this season. Regardless, we’re sure Beavers will be back and more ready than ever entering Year 2 in 2023.
