New York Giants: GM Jerry Reese Options at DE in the 2017 Draft
By Michael Stewart (@golferbad)
Round 1
DE-Taco Charlton-6’6/277 (Michigan): Charlton could possibly be gone by the time the Giants selection. However; many scouts feel he could slip somewhere between 20th -25th in the 1st round; based on other teams need. Charlton possess speed and power with the athleticism for added measures. Charlton is currently viewed as a better run stopper than a pass rusher. However; his 9.5 sacks in 2016 indicates he can be a lethal weapon as a pass rusher as well.
DE- Charles Harris-6’3/253 (Missouri): What Harris does best is rushing the Quarterback, as he possess an impressive first step and has the ability to finish off plays. Harris has extremely great technique as an edge rusher and is also a terrific run defender. Harris can add at least 15-20 pounds to his frame without hindering his ability.
Round 2
DE-DeMarcus Walker-6’4/280(Florida State): Walker opened up many eyes with his performance against Ole Miss. With 4.5 sacks and 2 forced fumbles. His 16 sacks in 2016 to go along with 21.5 tackles for losses have moved him into the 2nd round of the draft. Walker’s main talent is rushing the passer as he has a unique ability to create leverage against his opponent.
DE-Tanoh Kpassagnon-6’7/285 (Villanova): Kpassagnon had a great Senior Bowl and Combine; which only solidified his status in the NFL draft. Kpassagnon recorded 11 sacks with 21.5 for losses in 2016 and if GM Jerry Reese goes Offensive Tackle in round 1; you can bet that if available Kpassagnon could be the Giants 2nd round choice.
Round 3
DE-Dawuane Smoot-6’3/255 (Illinois): Smoot has an explosive first step off the edge, but would need to add more size to be a complete DE in the NFL and not just a one-dimensional pass rusher. Smoot creates a lot pressure on opposing QB’s, but needs to get better in finishing off plays.
DE-Jordan Willis-6’3/255 (Kansas State): Willis performance at the Combines opened up some eyes and his 2016 season; which featured 11.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for losses should have Willis named called no later than the 3rd round. Willis looks very smooth and athletic on the field with deceptive speed around the edge.
Round 4
DE-Carl Lawson-6’2/261 (Auburn): Lawson should be listed higher up in this year’s draft if not for injuries; which kept him from staying healthy on the playing field. Lawson has 1st round talent and if can stay healthy moving forward, he will be a steal on day 3 of the draft.
DE-Daeshon Hall-6’6/260 (Texas A&M): When you play on the opposite side from Myles Garrett, it’s understandable that you could get overlooked as a productive DE. However; Scouts have been noticing Hall the entire season. Hall flashes some of good traits but needs more consistency at the next level. Scouts believe that opposing teams were focusing on Garrett and that Hall should have had better numbers. Hall could be a solid rotational DE in the NFL.
Round 5
DE-Deatrich Wise Jr.-6’5/280 (Arkansas): Wise Jr. has ability, however; scouts see a lack of consistency and at times a lack of motivation. Wise Jr. has many of the physical tools to be a solid DE in the NFL, size, strength and speed, unfortunately; he lacks that instinctive football sense that separates average players to become elite players.
DE-Trey Hendrickson-6’4/270 (Florida Atlantic): Hendrickson has moved up quietly in the draft over the last month or so. Once considered a 6th or 7th round sleeper, Hendrickson could go in the 4th round. In 2016, Hendrickson recorded 9.5 sacks with 15 tackles for losses.
Round 6
DE-Keionta Davis-6’3/270 (Chattanooga): Davis has been one of most consistent pass rushers over the last two seasons in college football; which earned him an invitation to the Senior Bowl. Davis has the size and strength to become a reliable DE in the NFL. His 10.5 sacks along with 11.5 tackles for losses shows his skill set to create plays and finish them off.
DE-Derek Rivers-6’5/255 (Youngtown State): Rivers had a fairly strong combine displaying his speed and athleticism. Rivers could possibly into an OLB if he doesn’t add more weight and increase his strength to play against larger OT in the NFL.
Round 7
DE-Garrett Sickels-6’3/261 (Penn State): Sickels could possibly transition into an OLB in the NFL, unless he adds some bulk to his frame. Fore going his senior season could delay his growth at the next level, but Sickels goes showcase enough ability to have his named called on the final of the draft.
DE-Hunter Dimick-6’3/266 (Utah): Dimick recorded a decent season for Utah in 2016 with 54 tackles (20 for losses) and 14.5 sacks. However; Dimick lacks certain skill sets which is why he is projected as a third day selection.
Final Thoughts: GM Jerry Reese could still draft a DE despite signing Jason Pierre-Paul to a 4 year deal. The past two Super Bowl victories (both against New England) was largely a result to a relentless pass rush by the Giants. So with that being said; seeing Jerry Reese selecting a DE in the draft would not be a surprise.