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Aaron Lynch has been mocked to the New York Giants several times in both the first and second rounds by our sister site, Mockng The Draft. Is he worth being selected that high in the 2014 NFL Draft? He's an explosive, dynamic talent with little production from the University of South Florida. Does that sound familar to anyone?
Pros
- Extreme length. 6-foot-5, 249 pounds with 34-inch arms.
- Explosion off the line is tremendous and the potential for disruption is there on every play.
- Flexibility at the waist and hips is elite. Can really produce nice bend.
- Great functional strength for his light weight. Can push offensive tackles around.
Big Blue View NFL Draft Hub Page
Everything you need to know about the Giants heading into the 2014 NFL draft.
Cons
- Huge character concerns. Left Notre Dame because he didn't "fit in" and admitted that he played with an ego. Apparently had some of the same issues at South Florida. Motivation was an issue.
- Motor was an issue. Gives up a bit too easily.
- Dearth of pass rush moves. Has one outside bull-rush and one half-swim move. Doesn't create plays.
- Uninterested playing the run.
Does He Fit With The Giants?
Yes and no. He's the type of physical specimen that the Giants would drool all over. If he were motivated, he'd certainly be up there with Khalil Mack and Jadaveon Clowney. However, that wasn't the case for a reason. Needs to prove that he wants to play because it certainly didn't show up on tape.
Prospect Video
Aaron Lynch vs Michigan State (2013) (via Aaron Aloysius)
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - Not in top 100
Mocking The Draft - 65
CBS Sports - 206
Draft Countdown - 90
Draft Tek - 67
Final Thoughts
This is one of those times where the draft stock of the player is completely dependent on information outsiders are not privy to. That is, the interview. He needs to show that he can be a motivated, hard working player. If he is, the potential is tremendous.
The thing is, converting potential into production is hard enough when you are actually trying. Just ask Jason Pierre-Paul. Makes it even tougher when you have a reputation as a slacker. For me, I have Lynch off the board given the information we have. This draft is too important to add additional risk. From a physical standpoint, you've got someone who's a solid top 64 talent.