By Michael Stewart @TheTruthNYG
After the free agency period and NFL draft, the Giants GM Joe Schoen will move quickly to sign as many college players who weren’t taken in the draft and sign them as UDFA. The prospects in this year’s draft that weren’t selected within the 7 rounds have graded as mid level talent. All GM’s have high hopes of finding that diamond in the rough player who can contribute to the team right out of the gate. Let’s take a look at my top 4 offensive and defensive college prospects that might interest Joe Schoen and who could fall under that category.
Offense
- Mason Brooks (OG) Ole Miss-6’6/305: Brooks transferred from Western Kentucky where he protected current Patriots QB Bailey Zappe. Brooks has good technique with his hands and footwork and has a strong base to withstand a bull rush.
- Tavion Thomas (RB) Utah-6’0/240: Thomas has a thick frame and uses it efficiently as a power runner. Thomas doesn’t possess breakaway speed, but he can give the tough yards between the tackles and would be an excellent short yardage runner and near the goal line.
- Duece Watts (WR) Tulane-: Watts is a solid wide receiver with strong hands and big catch radius. Watts runs crisps routes and can stretch the field.
- Thomas Greaney (TE) Albany-6’5/253: Greaney has nice size with a good blend of speed and route running ability. Greaney also has good body control and a high catch radius.
Defense
- Terrance Lang (DE/EDGE) Colorado-6’7/290: Lang is built more like a basketball player and could add more size to his large frame without sacrificing his speed and quickness.
- Tavius Robinson (EDGE/OLB) OLE MISS-6’6/265: Robinson has impressive speed (4.60) with overall athleticism to surprise many NFL teams in training camp. NFL teams will likely transition Robinson as an OLB at the next level.
- Christian Young (Safety) Arizona-6’3/228: Young has good size and speed (4.44) and plays physically especially in run support. Young excels in the box and struggles at times in open space.
- Micah Baskerville (ILB) LSU-6’1/230: Baskerville is a sideline to sideline defender with great instincts and solid tackler. Baskerville has great awareness in pass coverage as well.
Arguably the greatest free agent signing for the Giants was Hall of Fame safety Emlen Tunnell, but most recently wide receiver Victor Cruz. Last season the Giants found Tomon Fox through UDFA and he was the only UDFA signee to make the 53 man roster. Fox performed well in his rookie season and is expected to take on a large role in 2023. GM Joe Schoen could have a repeat performance during the UDFA phase this season and the Giants organization is counting on it.