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It is no secret that the New York Giants need to upgrade the right side of their offensive line. Right guard John Jerry is an adequate starter at guard — a plus pass protector but a limited run blocker — and also a 30-year-old free agent, while sophomore Bobby Hart looked overwhelmed at times playing right tackle and was benched for the Wild Card game in favor of Marshall Newhouse.
Michigan had one of the best teams in the country this year, running a pro-style offense built on a stout offensive line. Could the Giants find an answer in Wolverines right tackle Erik Magnuson?
Measurables
Height - 6-foot-5
Weight - 310 pounds
40 Time - 5.17s (projected)
Pros
- Powerful run blocker. Sustains blocks and consistently creates movement at the point of attack
- Balanced in pass protection, sits back into his stance and anchors well
- Gets out into space well
- Looks for work in the open field
- Plays with a nasty streak and finishes blocks
- Versatile. Started games at both guard spots and right tackle for Michigan
Cons
- Hands can get out of control at times
- Somewhat slow-footed, could struggle against speed at the next level
- Athletic limitations likely limit him to right tackle or guard
- Probably not athletic enough for a pure zone blocking scheme
Does He Fit With The Giants?
He might. I’m not convinced that he has the feet to stick at offensive tackle at the next level- - I want to see how he does in field drills at the combine. However, I think he could slide inside and be a solid right guard. He has experience inside, a good build, and his feet are definitely good enough for the Giants’ “Pin and Pull” inside zone and man-gap running schemes.
Prospect Video
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - N/A
Mocking The Draft - N/A
CBS Sports - 133rd overall
Draft Countdown - N/A
Draft Tek - 129th overall
Final Thoughts
Erik Magnuson shouldn’t be confused with a top prospect. However, he is the kind of player who can make a roster and either surprise or work to secure a role for himself. I believe his future is more likely at guard than tackle, but he has been well coached in a pro-style offense, and has experience at both guard positions.
How Magnuson performs in the East-West Shrine Game and the scouting combine will go a long way towards determining his draft stock.