Day 2 and 3 Defensive Tackle Targets:
At the moment, defensive tackle doesn’t seem to be a major position of need for the Giants. It’s understandable considering they have Leonard Williams and Dexter Lawrence manning the interior, and also signed Rakeem Nunez-Roches to a one-year deal. However, let’s remember Leonard Williams is approaching 30 and as of now the Giants can move on from him after the 2023 season. They also haven’t locked Dexter Lawrence up long term. I’d be surprised if they don’t get a deal done with him at some point, but the Giants defense did rank 28th in rush yards allowed per game in 2022. On day two or three of the draft defensive tackle is an area where Joe Schoen should attempt to “future proof” the position. Here are some possible options:
Adetomiwa Adebawore, Northwestern:
Pat Kirwan of SiriusXM NFL Radio calls him double A, so we’ll refer to him as that. Double A tested incredibly well at the combine and has serious explosiveness to get after quarterbacks from the interior. According to Dane Brugler of The Athletic he’s the only 280 plus pound player to run a sub 4.5 40 yard dash in the history of the Combine. He’s an elite athlete and has versatility to play across the defensive line. At 6’2 and 280 pounds Double A possesses the exact body type for a guy who projects to be a three technique defensive tackle. Finishing tackles and improving his hand usage are some areas he can work on.
Keeanu Benton, Wisconsin:
Not quite the same athlete as Double A, but Benton does have exceptional hand usage and gets off blocks with no problem. He played in multiple spots along the defensive line at Wisconsin, so he would also bring some versatility to the Giants. The 6’4 315 pounder has a great motor and doesn’t give up on plays, but can add more pass rush moves and improve his technique.
Jalen Redmond, Oklahoma:
Redmond was a three-year starter at Oklahoma and really excels with his burst at the snap.. 29 tackles for loss the last three years shows the type of disruptive player he can be. The Midwest City, Oklahoma native will have to upgrade his processing and awareness as well as improve his pass rush plan. He also battled injuries at times in college, but he’s a likely day three pick who should be able to contribute as a run defender sooner than later while developing better pass rush skills.