By Michael Stewart/@TheTruthNYG
The Giants didn’t make a trade in round 4 on Day 3 of the 2021 NFL draft and they still didn’t address an OG either. Instead the Giants went for Edge Elerson Smith out of Northern Iowa who has a the potential of being a starter and productive Edge defender in the NFL. Let’s take a look at his positive and negative traits.
Round 4
Pick (#116): Elerson Smith (EDGE-Northern Iowa) 6’6/252:
Positives:
- Extremely Athletic
- Speed rush specialist
- Good length in his frame
- High Motor
- Room to grow into his body frame
- High Character
Negatives
- Needs to add size and strength
- Limited role at this point
- Needs to improve various pass rushing moves
Overall Grade: Smith’s is extremely raw and would be considered a project at this point. Smith will have the opportunity to develop at a comfortable pace and would be considered a 3rd down pass specialist in 2021. I had Smith on my radar after the Senior Bowl after he was clearly one of the best defensive players to shine throughout that week. Clearly GM Dave Gettleman and Head Coach Joe Judge see a potential and a higher ceiling in Smith over the other prospects in round 4. GRADE B-