Giants 2016 Draft Preview: RB Prospects, Part 6 of 6
By Michael Stewart
Part 6 and the final article featuring the RB prospects in the 2016 draft, we have three remaining that have had very productive careers in college and could be a steal in the late rounds. I would like to see GM Jerry Reese address the RB position through the draft in the later rounds if possible; as I mentioned, this year’s draft is deep at RB and there will be a couple of RB’s selected through rounds 4-7 that will have successful NFL careers.
I might be getting ahead of myself here, however; after reviewing many of these prospects on film; I came away with a lot of excitement and hope that the Giants select one of these quality RB’s come draft day.
DeAndre Washington (RB) Texas Tech 5’8/204- projected 6th round selection: Washington produced some impressive stats at Texas Tech (145 TDS/1,455 YDS) especially when you consider that Texas Tech is known for attacking defenses through the air. Washington averaged 121.2 YPG and 6.5 per carry; which translate him leading the Big 12 in almost every rushing category. It’s possible that Washington doesn’t get drafted at all and become a UDFA. If so, he would be a perfect candidate that might be a diamond in the rough with the right NFL team.
Wendell Smallwood (RB) West Virginia 5’11/202- projected 6th round selection: Another RB that excelled despite an offense that was more of a passing team. Smallwood plays bigger than his name suggests as he led the Big 12 in rushing yards (1,519). Smallwood also was no slouch as a receiver for West Virginia with his soft hands and great body control. Look for Small wood to a very late round RB that produces as a rookie.
Tre Madden (RB) Southern California 6’0/225 -projected 6th round selection: Very compact body, yet Madden has had issues with staying healthy; which is the main reason he is projected to go in the 6th round or perhaps later. If Madden can become more durable and is drafted to the right team; he could be a valuable RB by committee and special team’s contributor.
Final Thoughts: There you have it, a very impressive list of RB’s in the 2016 draft. Whether GM Jerry Reese signs one in free agency, drafts one or waits for the UDFA period and signs one; he needs to do something despite his comments that the Giants have a very deep and productive group of RBs already on the roster.