Prospect Profiles: Mitchell Schwartz

MITCHELL SCHWARTZ, OL, CALIFORNIA

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 6-6, 318, 5.35

SCOUTING REPORTS:

National Football Post:

Will end up being a four-year starter for Cal. Possesses a tall, well-built frame, carries his weight well and is natural on the move. At his best in the run game where he does a nice job sitting into his three-point stance, keeping his base down and generating a good snap through the hips into contact. Doesn’t waste much motion getting upright off the ball, stays down, possesses a strong lower half, runs his legs through contact and gains solid leverage with his hands. Routinely is able to get into opposing defenders quickly and create a push at the point. Plays through the whistle and takes pride in finishing blocks. However, also looks effective on the move, displays good body control off the snap with the initial quickness to get around on reach blocks and seal. Displays good coordination down the line on slide down blocks as well and can reach opponents at the second level. Lacks ideal body control when looking to drop his pad level and cut down on contact, but stays low off the ball into space, extends his arms and can seal backers down the field.

Is still developing as a pass blocker, displays solid range off the edge and looks athletic enough to reach speed. However, struggles to keep his base down, isn’t real technically sound/compact with his footwork and has a tendency to get overextended and double over the waist when looking to anchor. Takes good angles initially, but struggles to shuffle and slide through the play. Loses his balance easily and can be overwhelmed easily on contact because his weight is typically on his toes and he doesn’t stay real compact with his footwork lunging into contact. Does a much better job keeping his hands up and base down when he needs to block down or handle bigger/slower defensive ends off the edge where he can play with power. However, vs. speed he chicken wings his arms on his drop in order to create momentum, exposes his frame and doesn’t keep his hands up ready to uncoil on his punch.

Impression: Displays solid athletic ability, but looks better suited to play on the right side in the NFL vs. less speed. A nice mid round type draft pick who could eventually fight for playing time.

Josh Norris:

Cal OT Mitchell Schwartz (6-5/317) emerged as the top outside lineman on the North. Schwartz does not play as long as his measurements indicate, but shows the same toughness his brother Geoff possesses with the Panthers. Mitchell learns quickly, remembering how he was beaten in a previous rep and adjusting his feet/hands/posture accordingly. Schwartz is not flashy, but should at least carve out a career as a rotational, utility lineman.

NFL’s Future: 

Strengths:  Excellent in the run game as he fires off the ball low and stays low through contact.  Strong lower body with surprising athleticism.  He is a good move blocker into the second level and on reach blocks.  He blocks through the whistle and will block his man into the sidelines if need be.  He’s athletic enough to get to the edge in pass protection and takes good angles.  Four year starter for Cal that is undervalued at this point.

Weaknesses:  Still a work in progress in pass protection.  He will need to play right tackle to avoid speed off the edge.  He has a tendency to overextend trying to get to the edge.  His footwork in pass protection needs a little work (kick-slide is sloppy at times, crosses feet).  He becomes a waist bender and allows for too much exposed area for defenders to knock him off balance.

Bottom Line:  Mitchell Schwartz should provide great value for a team at the end of day or beginning of day three.  He’s a natural RT that is NFL ready in the run game.  He will need to work on his footwork in pass protection before he’s ready to handle starting DE’s in the NFL.  Schwartz was one of the more impressive tackles at the Senior Bowl and should capitalize on that momentum through the pre-draft

VIDEO:

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Mitchell Schwartz is a mid round line prospect, probably best suited to playing right tackle, although I think he could also play guard.  Better as a run guy than as pass blocker. Has some athletic ability, but not a lot. Not a knee bender, which is so critical. Strong, tough, smart player. Will struggle against speed guys. Has some technique issues to work through. Not going to be a star, but is a guy who can come in and be a valuable backup, and potentially, at least in a few years, start at right tackle. We don’t know what the Giants have in James Brewer, who came out last year as such a project. Schwartz is a bit more of a known entity; strong in run, can play multiple positions, will give you his all and is tough as nails. That’s the kind of lineman I like. Mid round, can be had in the 5th round and will be a valuable backup and 3 positions.

 

PREVIOUS PROFILES

RB:

David Wilson

WR:

Juron Criner

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

DE:

Malik Jackson

LB:

Luke Keuchly

Zach Brown

CB:

Casey Hayward

Shop 2011 NFC Champion Gear at the Official Online Team Store of the New York Giants

TE’s Jake Ballard & Travis Beckum undergo ACL surgery

It appears today marked the first day in a long road to recovery for two Super Bowl Champions. TE Travis Beckum and his tight end brother, TE Jake Ballard both underwent reconstructive surgeries to repair torn ACL’s on both respective players. Both players are expected to start the season on the PUP list.

With injuries to the starter, Jake Ballard, and his backup, Travis Beckum, the Giants might be pressed to address the need of a new starting tight end for opening day.

Prospect Profiles: Malik Jackson

MALIK JACKSON, DE, TENNESSEE

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 6-5, 260, 4.85

SCOUTING REPORTS:

National Football Post:

A tall, athletically built defensive lineman who possesses a long wingspan and some real violence to his game when asked to use his hands to shed blocks. Coils up decently into his stance, but has a lot of leg and struggles to keep his base down and head up at times. Gets inconsistent with his pad level off the ball as a pass rusher because of it. When trying to shoot gaps at times does a nice job staying low and extending his arms into contact in order to create a jolt. However, for the most part his pad level comes up, head stays down and doesn’t use his long arms to protect himself. Can be jacked on contact and doesn’t create a push as a defensive tackle. Displays some natural athletic ability when asked to loop/stunt inside. However, hasn’t put it together with his pass rush arsenal yet. Is more of a linear guy only at this stage who lacks a counter/change of direction ability. Nevertheless, consistently gets his long arms up in pass lanes and knocks a lot of throws down.

Displays impressive athletic ability though and when he does get his hands up off the line he can consistently keep himself clean and works like a bear in pursuit. Showcases great range off his frame for the position and demonstrates a good motor to go along with it. Exhibits a natural anchor as well for his size when asked to play the piano down the line. Is coordinated/powerful initially on his punch, can control blocks and work his way in pursuit. However, gets overextended and upright causing him to struggle with balance when asked to breakdown and make a play on the ball. Also, sees time at DE and looks much more coordinated when asked to get into contact, extend his arms and use his violent hands to shed. Lacks the anchor to hold up consistently inside vs. the downhill run game at the next level, as he can be easily sealed on contact. Needs to penetrate and win with his first step in order to be effective vs. the inside run. Holds up very well on the outside though, setting the edge, playing off blocks and working toward the football.

Impression: A great looking athlete. Has some real work to do from a technique standpoint and is playing out of position at Tennessee. However, has a lot of upside as a DE both in a 43 and 34 front in the NFL and looks like a really intriguing developmental defensive lineman at this stage with a good bit up upside long term.

Josh Norris:

Jackson quietly offers the same versatility as top-five prospect Quinton Coples, having played extensively at end and tackle and excelled at both in the SEC. Jackson displays incredible strength off the snap with quick hands that throw even the most thickly built interior linemen off balance. Jackson’s arm length helps disrupt passing lanes, but he has yet to maximize his length potential into leverage against the run, especially in short-yardage situations. When rushing the passer, Jackson is persistent and very active with strong counter moves if his initial burst is halted. His “tweener” label may be frowned upon by some, but I think Jackson is a top-five defensive end in this draft and worthy of a second-round pick.

Sideline Scouting:

Positives – Playing out of position in college but projects to DE in the pros; natural athletic ability, quick out of his stance, has the speed to threaten the edge, can be a challenge for opposing linemen to block… Has some quick, violent hands and long arms to disengage and stay clean; good hand punch, can knock linemen back on their heels, makes a lot of plays fighting through blocks… Gets his hands up in passing lanes when he can’t get to the quarterback… Does a nice job setting the edge and maintaining containment, can also make plays off his frame, has good range and is relentless in pursuit, good closing speed; his motor has been questioned but he didn’t seem to take any plays off in 2011… Versatile, has lined up at defensive tackle as well as defensive end but primarily played DT in 2011, projects best as a 3-4 DE (5-technique) at the next level and could also get looks as 4-3 DE, can be used on stunts and twists… Does a good job in space and plays better at defensive end where he can operate off the edge, has all the tools to be successful if he plays to his potential in the NFL; got better each and every week throughout his senior season.

Negatives – Undersized defensive tackle, played out of position at Tennessee, isn’t real stout against the run as a DT, won’t be able to hold up inside at the professional level, doesn’t always have the power to disengage… His lack of weight hurts him, lacks strength, can’t create a push at defensive tackle, lacks the anchor to hold up inside, needs to bulk up 10-15 pounds to play 3-4 DE or he could drop a few pounds and a team could give him a look at 3-4 OLB… A straight-line type of athlete, has impressive overall athletic ability but isn’t real flexible and struggles to change direction, doesn’t have much of a pass rushing arsenal… Plays upright out of his stance and gets more upright as he tires, needs to do a better job staying low, doesn’t use his arms to protect himself when playing high, lots of work to be done with his technique… Wears a bulky knee brace on his left knee and there may be medical questions heading into the NFL combine… Opted to transfer to Tennessee following two years at Southern California after the Trojans were hit with a two-year postseason ban… All in all, Jackson is an impressive athlete with some upside but will be a developmental project and won’t contribute right away.

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Malik Jackson is a developmental defensive line prospect. Played DT in college, not bulky enough for that in the NFL, although he can probably slide inside on passing downs. Long arms. Athletic. Kind of a project, but was productive. Needs technique work. Very strong. Gets a push. I think he can be used all over the line, a la Mathias Kiwanuka. He’s obviously not ready to contribute right away, but it’s not like the Giants need that. They can afford to bring him along slowly and let his technique catch up with his athleticism. The Giants will draft a pass rusher, and we still don’t know for sure if Osi is going to be back. 2nd to 3rd round. I think he’s an upside pick. You take him, put on special teams, let him develop and then let the talent develop and let him produce.

 

PREVIOUS PROFILES

RB:

David Wilson

WR:

Juron Criner

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

LB:

Luke Keuchly

Zach Brown

CB:

Casey Hayward

Prospect Profile: Juron Criner

JURON CRINER, WR, ARIZONA

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 6-4, 215, 4.65

SCOUTING REPORTS:

National Football Post:

A strong, physically put together receiver who plays much more compact and coordinated than his 6-4 frame would leave you to believe. Displays average short area quickness for his size, but isn’t overly physical vs. press coverage. Tends to get jammed up easily and has a tough time separating initially off the line with corners who want to be physical. Does a nice job using a stutter step to get corners off balance and can accelerate quickly vs. any kind of cushion, but hasn’t been effective vs. press consistently. Isn’t a burner, looks like a 4.55 guy. However, plays fast because he is a powerful route runner who has good initial quickness both off the line and into his route. Displays an explosive element to his game after the catch and can fend off would be tacklers as well. Doesn’t have much wiggle when he gets up to full speed as some stiffness does show, but he runs hard, lowers his head into contact and gets north to south quickly.

For his size does a nice job showing good change of direction skills and balance on sharply breaking routes. Runs routes at full speed, keeps his feet under him and can create a burst/separation out of his breaks. Tends to round off his angles a bit, but uses his body to box out defenders and isn’t afraid to pluck the football away from his frame in traffic. Exhibits good body control and coordination when asked to adjust. Uses his big, strong hands well to pluck off his frame and is a threat in jump ball situations. Does have his fair share of lapses in concentration and will put the ball on the ground at times in traffic. However, showcases a natural feel for the pass game, knows how to sell the double move and works hard to run himself open when asked to improvise. Also, is effective on the edge as a blocker, sticks to defenders and can win one-on-one matchups consistently.

Impression: He’s a talent, there is no doubt about that. However, the key in determining his draft stock is where he’s at mentally and physically. If he checks out in both areas he could develop into a starting caliber wide out. But looks more like a sub-package guy

NE Patriots Draft:

Strengths: Elite size and speed combination – Big play threat – Separates well down the field – Normally runs very crisp routes, doesn’t seem to lose speed coming out of breaks – Good, but not great hands – Positions his body well.

Weaknesses: Will occasionally get lazy and round a route off – Used to shy away from contact at times – Not a terrible blocker, but could improve – Few true weaknesses, good all-around player.

Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Juron Criner is a big (and sometimes), physical prospect who (with a little polish) could become a great talent in the NFL.Criner’s best attributes are his special combination of size and speed. He doesn’t play quite as tough as you might expect for a player of his size, but he shows a nice ability to get downfield and simply come down with the football. At best, he’s an average route runner, but when the ball is in the air, Criner’s hand-eye coordination is top notch. Using his body to shield off defenders, he can elevate and catch the ball in unorthodox ways. Criner is a bit sloppy with his body control, but does a good job to get his hands on the ball and come down with it.After making catches, he looks to get upfield hard and fast. In order to keep improving, he needs to do better using his hands to get off of press coverage. Criner absorbs contact while route running very well. He’ll need to do a better job with coming back to throws and not just allowing the ball to come to him.Criner needs to run well at the combine and display his athleticism to separate himself from other projected middle round receivers.

 

VIDEO:

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Juron Criner is a big mid round receiver prospect. Gets down the field well for his size. Not overly physical. Not overly fast. But seems to me like a solid possession receiver who can move the chains and, when asked, stretch the field. The Giants may very well lose Mario Manningham. Criner is a different prospect. Manningham is fast and elusive; Criner is slower and not elusive. But Criner would bring an element of size that the Giants don’t have. I think Eli would love having him on a crossing route on 3rd and 8 as a safety valve. His size is an advantage, and as a third receiver who can contribute on third downs and in the red zone, wouldn’t be a terrible option. I would prefer him to be more physical, and to run sharper routes. But is a nice looking mid round prospect who can contribute right away and contribute in a meaningful way.

 

PREVIOUS PROFILES

RB:

David Wilson

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

LB:

Luke Keuchly

Zach Brown

CB:

Casey Hayward

Thoughts and Musings

For those about to muse, I salute you.

-We’re heating up draft coverage on the site with our prospect profiles, all of which can be read here. Again, make sure to suggest a player you want profiled, and we will do just that.

-We don’t, sadly, have the access to coaching tape. That is the absolute best way to evaluate a player. Read this and this to understand why. We have Youtube clips, which is something, but certainly not the best thing, and it’s flawed. You can read all the scouting reports you want, and you’ll be informed, but you’ll never truly understand a player. I base most of my opinions on others, what they see. I trust a lot of guys, and their evaluations and try to fit it in into what I like in a football player and what the Giants need or want. It’s not perfect, and I feel the need to let you know that. But, we do the best we can with what we’ve got.

-What do I like in a football player? Well, I like a guy who understands his position, the technical aspects of it. I want a guy who is a hard worker. I’m much more willing to take a risk on an unfinished product if he is a hard worker. Sadly, too many NFL players don’t have the best work ethic. I think the majority do, but there are plenty of talented to people who, with a little coaching and hard work, could be stars, but end up as busts. I like production and big game experience, but I think that only matters if his skill set lends itself to be productive in the NFL. For a QB, can he make NFL throws? There’s a reason that all the guys from Hawaii who put up those huge numbers (Timmy Chang, Colt Brennan) aren’t NFL QBs. Not because they don’t have talent and because they weren’t productive, because they were, but because their skill set was not a NFL skill set. Couldn’t make stick throws into tight windos. So you can be productive, but I want guys who are productive and have NFL talent.

-The GM of the Jaguars, Gene Smith, tends to put a huge emphasis on character. Passing on more talented guys for people who are hard working etc. And, let’s look at the Jags. Kind of a mess. You need talent, first and foremost. The Giants will take character risks. Mario Manningham fell to the third round because of that. Ahmad Bradshaw had issues. Plaxico. The list goes on. The key to taking those risks is building up a strong veteran locker room. What I would love to see the Jags do is take a character risk, a super talented guy who needs motivation or whatever the case might be, and try to see if the approach of drafting character guys is working. You need a balance. You can’t go to either extreme and expect to win.

-I think the Giants need to upgrade at guard. I think Kevin Boothe, while serviceable, can be upgraded. Chris Snee, for some reason, took a step back. Cordy Glenn, who we profiled, might not be a bad choice, although he might fly up in the first round because he’s versatile. But, you can find guards in later rounds.

-I also think right tackle needs to be addressed. I think Kareem McKenzie’s best days are behind him. You can move Diehl to right tackle and start Beatty at left, assuming he’s healthy, but Diehl, for some reason I won’t understand, is good at left tackle. His skill set should be a guard, but he struggled there. Beatty, I thought, was up and down. He’s athletic, but he’s more of a finesse player, which is fine, but against some rushers, like Jared Allen, that’s not going to fly. You don’t know what James Brewer is, so drafting another tackle might not be a bad idea.

-If Deon Grant does not return, which I don’t know if he will or not, I think another safety would be nice. Someone we will profile soon is a safety from Boise State George Illoka. Really tall, athletic can run with tight ends. Might be an option. I don’t think Tyler Sash is anything more than a good special teams player.

-That said, having a guy like Sash on your team is so valuable. Those special teams demons are indispensable.

-Music interlude: Really into this guy Brother Ali. Rapper. But good rap, none of that crap out there today. I’m a throwback rap fan, and he raps about important things, social issues, etc. That’s the rap I like, not Lil Wayne or anything.

-I think corner depth should be addressed. Not first or second round necessarily, but depth in the middle rounds. That said, if someone like Janoris Jenkins or Dre Kirpatrick falls because of their character concerns, no reason why you shouldn’t pick them. Can never have enough corners.

-And, I might say this every week, but the Giants will draft a pass rusher. Probably later. But they will.

-And if someone like, say, Quinton Coples takes a Da’Quan Bowers like drop (which I don’t think he will) then might as well check him out.

 

Prospect Profiles: Casey Hayward

CASEY HAYWARD, CB, VANDERBILT

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 5-11, 188, 4.55

SCOUTING REPORT:

National Football Post:

Possesses good height and a thin build, but has the frame to add additional girth without losing much athleticism. Displays a natural feel for the pass game in zone coverage. Keeps his head on a swivel, feels routes develop around him and displays the fluidity in his hips to quickly open up and make a play on the football. Is at his best in off coverage where he can sit in routes, read and react, and can simply undercut throws. Displays some natural click and close ability when driving on passes in front of him. However, gets too upright in his drop, doesn’t consistently keep his base under him and wastes too much motion out of his breaks. Not as clean as he could be driving on the football. Picked off 6 passes last year and recorded 17 passes defended. But displays only slightly above-average ball skills. Will leave some picks on the field and I don’t think his ball skills are quite as good as his stats make them out to be. Needs to do a better job catching the football more consistently.

Not real comfortable in man coverage at this stage however. Lacks great straight-line speed and doesn’t seem to trust himself on an island. When he plays closer to the line likes to prematurely open up his hips in order to keep receivers from quickly getting behind him, will give up routine separation underneath. Gets upright when asked to turn and run, doesn’t possess the type of second gear to quickly get back up to speed and can easily be taken advantage of by vertical speed. Gets leggy out of his breaks as well trying to re-direct because of his high pad level.

He does locate the football well in all areas of the game, possess good balance when asked to adjust to the throw and possesses the coordination to make a play at the highest point. Is only an average drag down tackler, and lacks pop into contact but takes good angles toward the football and gives an honest effort.

Impression: A smart, productive corner who can consistently make plays on the football. He’s not a guy who will consistently hold up in man on the outside in the NFL. However, he’s shown the ability to routinely get early jumps on the football and come down with the catch. Looks like one of the safer prospects in the draft as a cover two type guy.

NE Patriots Draft:

Strengths: Plays bigger than he is, takes on big WR’s with ease – Good, not elite speed – Incredible ball skills, is an interception machine – Has the ability to fight off blocks and make a tackle – Reads plays quickly – Smooth backpedal and fluid hips – Feisty competitor, can lay a good hit on a WR – Smart kid on and off the field.

Weaknesses: Will get called for some interference penalties, gets a bit physical – In run support, tends to avoid blockers rather than shedding them

FF Toolbox:

Hayward was one of the more experienced players in college football. The cornerback saw significant playing time as a freshman in 2008 then was a full-time starter the entire rest of the way at Vanderbilt. As a sophomore he led the team with 8.5 tackles for loss and had two interceptions. Hayward picked of six passes as a junior to go along with 70 total tackles (59) solo. He is coming off a strong senior campaign during which he had seven interceptions, which he turned into 107 yards including a 50-yard touchdown. Hayward made 62 total tackles (7.5 for loss).

The Perry, GA native has decent size at 5’11” and 188 pounds. He generally runs in the 4.5s in the 40-yard dash and has been clocked as fast as 4.42 from that distance. Hayward contributed sparingly on special teams for the Commodores, returning one kickoff and one punt as a senior. He plays bigger than he is thanks to superior athleticism and he is an absolute ball-hawk. Hayward racks up interceptions on a consistent basis and he is capable in run defense as well, showing an uncanny ability to get into the backfield. The only real drawback is that he does not possess elite size nor elite speed. He is simply solid all round. Look for Hayward to go off the board in the third or fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft

VIDEO:

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Casey Hayward is my type of corner. Smart. Knows what he’s doing. Athletic. Not super fast, but can hang with receivers. I would put him in the slot right away. Makes plays on the ball. Turns well, tracks the receiver. Technically sound.  Not going to be a star, but is physical and makes plays. 3rd or 4th rounder. The Giants need depth at corner, particularly at nickel corner. We do not know what’s going to happen with Terrell Thomas and we don’t know if Aaron Ross will be back. Hayward works well in cover 2. I think he will also fit nicely on special teams. I like him in the 3rd round as a productive, slot corner who can contribute right away.

PREVIOUS PROFILES

RB:

David Wilson

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

LB

Luke Keuchly

Zach Brown

Prospect Profiles: David Wilson

DAVID WILSON, RB, VIRGINIA TECH

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 5-10, 205, 4.45

SCOUTING REPORTS:

National Football Post:

Looks a lot thicker than his frame would suggest. Possesses natural girth through his lower half, thick legs and a bubble. Is a little thinner through his upper body, but has the lower body girth to hold up inside as the next level. Is an explosive athlete with natural quick-twitch ability when asked to press the hole. Showcases a “plus” burst on the toss sweep to the edge. Exhibits impressive balance and footwork running the corner and possesses the quickness to simply side step defenders at full speed and explode into the open field. Plays fast in space, drops his pad level well and keeps his knees bent when looking to make a defender miss. Looks like a 4.4 guy with top end acceleration.

Showcases some patience at the line of scrimmage when asked to run from I-formation sets/single backsets. Allows his blockers to set up in front of him and trusts his first step even with defenders closing in on him. However, can be a bit slow at times to decipher information inside and vision is only average. Nevertheless, runs with a low pad level and good forward lean, with the change of direction skills to pick his way through a phone booth and accelerate. Demonstrates a unique blend of quickness, burst and an overall aggressive/powerful running style and isn’t afraid to lower his head into contact and slip/break tackles. Is a balanced runner into contact who can keep his feet if defenders don’t wrap up.

At times will allow his pad level to pop upright inside when looking to burst into the open field and can easily be wrapped on the play when he exposes his legs. However, for the most part keeps his pad level down and will churn his leg through contact and make himself small when plays are all blocked up. Will leave some yards on the field and has a tendency at times to try to out run the defense, causing him to run into some negative plays. Would like to see him be more content to simply win the play with a two-yard gain and move on. Also, ball security at times gets a bit lose and he will put the ball on the ground.

Showcases good hands in the pass game. Looks natural snapping his head around on the screen and was used down the field at times as well, showcasing the body control/coordination to pluck off his frame. Needs work in blitz pick-up. More of a cut guy only who isn’t’ real patient and doesn’t routinely get much of his man. Nevertheless, has played a dynamic role in the kick return game and adds a quality return man to an NFL roster.

Impression: He’s a compact kid who runs stronger/harder than you would expect from a guy his size. Has a dynamic quality to his game both inside and in the open field, and looks capable of maturing into a very good NFL running back early on in the NFL.

Rookie Scouting Portfolio

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

FF Toolbox:

Wilson has been an absolute force at running back in three years at Blacksburg. Despite setting high standards every season, he has still managed to get better and better. Wilson rushed 59 times for 334 yards and four touchdowns as a freshman in 2009 (a 5.7 average per carry). Even when he started to see more and more playing time, the average remained the same. He had 113 attempts for 619 yards and five scores as a sophomore before really breaking out in 2011; 290 carries for 1709 yards and nine touchdowns.

The Danville, VA native is also a stellar pass-catcher out of the backfield. After catching no passes as a freshman, Wilson made a total of 37 receptions for 363 yards and five scores over the past two seasons. He stands at just 5’10”, but weighs in at a solid 205 pounds. Wilson may not possess the physicality to be an every-down back in the NFL, but his speed is unbelievable. He has been clocked as fast as 4.32 in the 40-yard dash, a time that every team will take note of at the combine. If Wilson decides to leave early, he should be a second or third-round selection in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Mel Kiper (via Evan Silva
“Athletically off charts. When he works out he’s gonna wow you. Game breaker. Issue is ball security. He coughs it up.”

VIDEO:

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Really speedy guy who can make guys miss. More of an outside runner, but can make guys miss behind the line. Has some issues with not falling forward and not taking what the defense gives him. But dynamic in space. Great returner. Can contribute right away that way. Really good out of the backfield. He’s not going to pound in between the tackles but will provide an element of speed that the Giants don’t have. He can really run and can return and be a nice guy out of the backfield. 2nd round pick. I’m not the biggest fan. For one, the Giants don’t really use a speed game. Two, Wilson seems to be more interested in making the highlight play than making the right play and that’s concerning. Read the Rookie Scouting Portfolio’s breakdown for an awesome understanding of Wilson. I think he has to learn a lot about not relying on athleticism because, while it might work in the ACC, it won’t in the NFC East. I think you have a similar guy in Da’Rel Scott on the roster. While I’m intrigued by Wilson’s speed, I don’t like the other stuff.

PREVIOUS PROFILES:

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

LB

Luke Keuchly

Zach Brown

Big Daddy’s premature Giants mock draft.

We all pretty much know what Jerry Reese is all about. He drafts for value that means he takes BPA or BAP (best available player) into consideration first but also need. Most people think he just drafts for BAP and they would be wrong, he takes everything into consideration. So many GMs say they take the best player there and that’s bull, so many are now drafting for need. The Giants need a tightend and middle linebacker in that order and you can bet you will see some drafted. Were in the draft, nobody knows right now not even Jerry Reese. We all have to wait for the combine and prodays to get a feel for what is going on with the players in the draft.

 

So this is premature, it’s just a guess on my part. If I hit on one correct draft choice it would be amazing right now. This is about having some fun not who knows it all. We still don’t even know what compensation picks the Giants have. There should be a few high ones, maybe a third and/or fourth, maybe some late ones in rounds 6 & 7. That would be nice, you cannot trade them but maybe Reese can trade some of the Giants picks and players in a package to move deeper into round one or two. If you study the trade value chart picking last means your pick has a very low number value.

 

But think about this, does Jerry Reese really want to have 10 draft picks? I think we need less players and a higher pick right now. I think he will sign a veteran middle linebacker and tight end as a stop gap until a younger player steps up or even as a long term solution if the payer is young enough. It would be nice to get into that middle of the pack in the first round, that’s where the Giants got JPP at number fifteen. That’s where the Giants can get a potential star that can start contributing right away despite Tom Coughlin’s aversion to playing rookies.

 

I would not trade any picks from next draft, judging by the schedule and a possible huge turnover in the roster the Giants maybe picking early in the next draft. Manti Te’o is made for the MIKE and looks great in blue. But some moves might be done and there are a few Giants players who can be moved, they have some value. For instance our first round pick, 3rd, 4th and Osi to move into the low to mid-teen area. The math works out and if we have those comp picks we didn’t really lose much. That’s the area where you can get a star OG/OT or even RB, MLB, that’s where they are. I think the offensive line would look really nice with David DeCastro at left guard, or possibly Dont’a Hightower or Vontaze Brufict in the MIKE, how about players like Barron, Upshaw, Glenn just to name a few, wouldn’t you want a chance at them? Although I am not sold on Barron.

 

Definite need for starter- TE, MLB, ROT, KR yes kick returner, but we can get him later in the draft or sign one, maybe Jernigan takes the job. Blackburn is not the answer, neither is Goff at the MIKE. We all know what’s doing at TE. McKenzie is a FA, we need to get youth and athletic ability next to Snee.

Definite need for depth- Safety, OL, RB, I think Jacobs is gone and DJ Ware is not that good, that leaves Bradshaw and Scott. Definitely need for depth at safety, I think Grant is gone and the offensive line is in a state of flux.

Too good to pass up- DL, CB, WR, hey if a player who has a high value that other teams passed on you have to take him, we did that with Marvin Austin and I think next season that will pay off.

 

OK let us play:

 

First round- BPA, do the Giants draft a QB, I think not. It’s Value, at 32 what is there, I think the pick here is Orson Charles Georgia 6’3” 240 pounds and runs a 4.5 40, although I have seen him go in the third round in mock drafts. He does need to polish his blocking but he is a willing blocker and does not shy away from contact. I like the more behemoth type TEs like 6’6” 275 but this guy has skills and would be the player Beckum was not. Another possibility is Dwayne Allen who is a bit bigger and slower, closer to the prototypical NFL TE. Coby Fleener will probably go in the second or even third round, he does not block well, yet he might go in the first or low second because of his height at 6’6” and receiving ability, nobody has a clue yet. Do something crazy Jerry Reese and move down in the second round and take this guy too. Like the Pats did with Gronkowski and Hernandez, what a 1-2 punch at the TE position added to our WRs, unstoppable offense with Eli throwing to all these targets, especially if we lose Manningham. Maybe we take Mike Adams ROT 6’7” 323 Ohio state if he’s there a perfect ROT prospect. This seems more like a Reese pick if the guy is there.

 

Second round- Again we draft late, it almost like a third round pick. This is a more important pick than the first round, more solid professionals and even stars come from the second round. They may take a season or two but they in the long run turn out to be big time players more often than the first round due in part to so many bust quarterbacks and left tackles taken in the first round. My pick would be to move down and take Fleener or stay put and hope that all the GMs pass on someone. But if indeed we stay at where we pick here is the place to get the BPA without worrying about position at all. George Iloka safety Boise State 6’3” 215 looks like a good choice right now, maybe I’m wrong.

 

Third round- Bobby Massie ROT Mississippi 6’6” 320 pounds, if he’s there, he’s moving up the boards and might be gone. If we pick Adams this will not be the pick. Maybe Fleener is here or we move down a bit to get him if we already picked Adams.

 

Fourth round- LaMichael James RB Oregon 5’9” 195, a small running back with what looks like blazing speed and amazing elusiveness, harder to tackle than you would think, he may also be a return guy He like a lot of my picks might be gone by now. Another player of interest originally pegged to be a late round pick Shawn Loiseau MLB Merrimack 6’2” 245, is moving up. He’s a HUGE hitter and will be a solid football player and special teams player. Will he ever be the starting MIKE, could very well be. A much better prospect than Phillip Dillard was.

 

Fifth round- Rhett Ellison TE USC 6’5” 250, I think a lot of teams will pass on him because he is not great at anything, he is the type to be a solid TE in the NFL, he has an NFL body, not a star but better than Jake. He might be gone by now. Unless we took 2 TEs earlier this is the pick. I doubt Reese picks 2 TEs early.

 

Sixth round- Now you’re scratching looking for someone that just might make your roster, Tyler Nelson OLB 6’3” 236 Iowa or Ryan Miller OT/OG Colorado 6’7” 326. Again these guys might not be here it’s still too early to tell.

 

Seventh round- I feel like I am trying to guess who will be president in 2020. I’ll go with Sean Cattouse safety Cali 6’2” 218.

 

And for one UDFA (undrafted free agent) I’ll go with a kid from Rutgers Joe Martinek FB/HB 5’11” 221.

 

After the Combine and prodays this will all change. Some players listed at 6’6” will be 6’3” and some will run 4.8 40 yard dashes when they were said to run a 4.5, this happens every year. And then you have your workout warriors who don’t have a great body of work in college but wow everybody with their athletic ability, those players can turn out to be either JPP or the Jets Vernon Gholston. This is what makes the draft so much fun, the drama sometimes is better than watching CSI.

Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants on DVD from Vivendi Entertainment on March 6th!

Get an Exclusive Look at the Giants Greatest Moments from the Regular Season, Playoffs and Super Bowl XLVI Victory as Vivendi Entertainment and NFL Films Release Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants on DVD, BLU-RAY™ and digitally, for the first time ever, available on March 6, 2012!

They say that history repeats itself, and in the case of the New York Giants it only took four years to defeat the New England Patriots on another late 4th quarter, game-winning drive in the Super Bowl. Big Blue hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy for the fourth time in franchise history after a thrilling 21-17 comeback victory to be crowned Super Bowl XLVI champion. Now Vivendi Entertainment, the National Football League (NFL) and NFL Films team up to release Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants on March 6, 2012. The Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants release will be available on DVD, Blu-Ray™, and, for the first time, through digital retailers, fans can purchase or rent the film.

“We are proud to showcase the 2011 New York Giants as they became Super Bowl champions for the fourth time with the release of Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants, available on DVD, Blu-Ray and Digital,” said Norbert Hudak, Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing and Partner Relations for Vivendi Entertainment. “The Super Bowl Champions film is a must-have keepsake for every Giants fan as it relives all of the memorable games, key players, unforgettable plays and inside-the-game sound bites that only NFL Films can provide.”

This action-packed release will chronicle the Giants’ season, where they started 6-2 before sliding to 7-7. Under the guidance of Coach Tom Coughlin, Big Blue went on a run that energized an entire city! Starting with a Christmas Eve victory against the New York Jets, the Giants continued their amazing run by defeating the Dallas Cowboys in Week 17 to win the NFC East division. They continued with postseason victories over the Atlanta Falcons, the top-seeded Green Bay Packers and the resurgent San Francisco 49ers. New York then capped its remarkable turnaround beating the AFC Champion New England Patriots on Super Bowl Sunday in Indianapolis behind Super Bowl MVP Eli Manning’s brilliant performance and a suffocating defense.

The Blu-Ray and DVD will be sold throughout the New York region at major retailers, sporting goods chains, grocery stores; as well as online at Amazon.com and NFLShop.com for fans to purchase.

“In addition to the full-length Super Bowl XLVI broadcast available today on iTunes and Best Buy Cinema Now, fans for the first time, will be able to purchase or rent Super Bowl XLVI Champions: New York Giants on-line day and date with DVD and Blu-Ray,” said Yolanda Macias, EVP Acquisitions and Business Development.

Suggested Retail Prices for the film it its various formats will be $24.99 on DVD, $34.93 on Blu-Ray, digital purchase $14.99 (SD) $19.99 (HD) and digital rental for $3.99 SRP (SD) and $4.99 SRP (HD).

DVD Special Features will include:

· Super Bowl Media Day
· Super Bowl Post-Game Ceremonies
· Super Bowl XLII Recap
· The Eli Manning Conversation
· The Receiving Giants
· Catching Up With David Tyree
Exclusive Blu-Ray Special Features:
2011 NFL Shots of the Year
2011 NFL Players Wired For Sound
2011 NFL Coaches Wires For Sound

Prospect Profiles: Zach Brown

ZACH BROWN, OLB, UNC

TRIANGLE NUMBERS: 6-2, 230, 4.45

SCOUTING REPORTS:

National Football Post:

A compact, athletically built linebacker with a strong looking frame who possesses an impressive initial burst to his game when asked to close on the football. Looks natural in space, is quick to re-direct and possesses the closing speed to consistently make plays off his frame. For the most part takes good angles in pursuit vs. the run game and breaks down well when running the alley. He generates good natural power into contact, plays low, exhibits a snap through the hips and will run his legs and wrap on contact. He will run himself out of plays in space sometimes and at times plays a bit out of control, but for the most part is a solid tackler. Exhibits better instincts and read-and-react skills than given credit for. He does a nice job of quickly locating the football, doesn’t bite on a ton of play fakes and is quick to diagnose the play. At times he will seal himself away from the action inside the box, but for the most part I was impressed with his natural feel of the game. He needs to do a better job using his hands and extending his arms in order to take on blocks inside, but he looks natural and sudden running around blocks and keeping himself clean. However, he too often leads with his shoulder at the point of attack and, despite his natural power, he doesn’t shed blocks well inside and can be easily sealed from the action.

Looks natural in coverage. He’s quick footed, fluid in the hips and is consistently able to re-direct and explode out of his breaks. At times gets a bit overextended with his hips working in his drop but he collects himself quickly, displays natural balance and exhibits the closing speed to still make plays on the football. He looks natural in zone coverage, keeps his head on a swivel and covers a lot of ground in space. Gets a bit impatient in man coverage, he likes to be physical, and will lose balance into contact trying to create a bump for himself when asked to re-direct. Also, is a bit slow to locate the throw when asked to turn and run vertically. However, he possesses the balance and fluidity that makes him tough to separate from and even if he does give up a step, possesses the second gear to quickly close. Displays the athleticism to hold his own in space in the NFL over the slot and in man coverage vs. NFL caliber running backs.

Impression: A run and hit guy with impressive athleticism and range. Possesses solid instincts and is a better read-and-react linebacker than given credit for, but still not elite in that area. Nevertheless, looks like a starting caliber 43 weak side guy who would be ideal in a cover two scheme.

Mocking The Draft:

• The first thing you notice about Brown is his first step. It’s hard to justify saying any other college linebacker has a better first step.

• Has track speed, which is unique for a linebacker prospect. He can play up to reported 10.6 100-yard dash time. There are few ball carriers who can run away from Brown.

• Is not the most physical defender and can get overmatched more than he should. If Brown wants to survive in the NFL, he has to get stronger.

• Remains active when he’s dropped back in zone, especially when routes are developing behind him.

• North Carolina has used Brown over the slot receiver, especially if its a tight end.

• Brown has hands that would be considered good if he played safety. As it is, they’re excellent for a linebacker. It’s not necessarily his interception total, but his ability to make a play on the ball.

• You can tell by Browns measurements alone that he needs to get bigger to make it at the next level. His frame has good definition, but needs to get bulkier throughout.

• Was only a spot starter in 2010, mostly because Quan Sturdivant and Bruce Carter were on the team.

• Is a terror on special teams. He’ll be able to help an NFL team there immediately

FF Toolbox:

While the suspended players on North Carolina’s 2010 defense garnered most of the headlines, Brown emerged from a host of backups to be the leader of the bunch. The linebacker had been overshadowed by star players like Bruce Carter and Quan Sturdivant, but he made a name for himself by finishing second on the team with 72 tackles despite starting only five games. Now as a senior in 2011, Brown–through eight games–is tops on the squad in total tackles (53), solo tackles (32), tackles for loss (seven) and sacks (4.5).

Brown has a ton of experience, having played sparingly as a freshman before starting six games at weakside linebacker in 2009. His physical assets are not particularly impressive ( he stands at 6’2” and 230 pounds), but he makes up for any size deficiencies with speed. A member of the track team, Brown set a school record in the indoor 60-meter dash last season and he has been clocked as fast as 4.40 in the 40-yard dash. That is almost unheard of quickness for a linebacker. Furthermore, he is very strong despite his relative lack of build and is a sound tackler. Brown should be a first-round pick in the 2012 NFL Draft

VIDEO:

GiantsGab Thoughts:

Brown is an incredibly athletic Will linebacking prospect. Needs to add bulk. Can cover wideouts, backs, tight ends, you name it. I would think that tight ends could be really physical with him at the line, and the taller guys, the 6-6 guys, might have their way. Brown, almost, would be better as a safety because of his speed. Blockers are going to take him on and win, most of the time. He’s going to be awesome on special teams, because his size/speed ratio is just awesome. Is his lack of bulk going to hurt him? Or will he be used in a way that can protect him up front and allow him to run and chase? If its the latter, then I think he will be successful. If you’re going to ask him to take on blockers and shed them, it won’t work. Can he get stronger without losing the speed? Big questions surrounding Brown. On talent, late first round pick. Should be available at 32. He won’t start right away, but we all know the Giants have struggled with covering tight ends and backs down the field. Brown could solve that.

 

PREVIOUS PROFILES:

TE:

Coby Fleener

OG:

Cordy Glenn

LB

Luke Keuchly