Big Blue View - NFL Scouting Combine 2017: Everything you need to knowYour place for year-round New York Giants discussion and informationhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47371/bigblueview_fave.png2017-03-06T14:21:49-05:00http://www.bigblueview.com/rss/stream/145247352017-03-06T14:21:49-05:002017-03-06T14:21:49-05:00NFL Combine Results, Risers and Fallers: CB Gareon Conley wins big
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<figcaption>Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The depth of the defensive back group was on full display Monday at the Combine</p> <p id="hOIQEW">The 2017 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Scouting Combine</a> is in the books, and we got to see one of the best defensive back groups in recent memory take the field. In a weekend that saw records set, the defensive backs would have their work cut out for them to shine, but they did. </p>
<p id="9jcEBk">While the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> have assembled a talented and deep secondary, they might yet find themselves drafting one of these defensive backs. With that in mind, let’s see who helped themselves on the last day of the combine.</p>
<h3 id="RPGBiQ">Big Winner</h3>
<p id="J0RUVZ"><span><strong>Gareon Conley</strong></span><strong> (Ohio State)</strong> </p>
<p id="8tOsZv"><span>Conley</span> was considered Ohio State’s “other corner” across from <span>Marshon Lattimore</span>, but he established himself as a player in his own right in his workout. He proved that he has NFL speed, and he hung with the very best corners in the class in positional drills. Conley showed some of the best feet, loosest hips, and best movement skills out there. He is forcing scouts are going to have to go back to the Ohio State tape and concentrate on him, and not Lattimore or <span>Malik Hooker</span>.</p>
<p id="VH3YvY"><strong>Risers </strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="7pL00j">
<span><strong>Damontae Kazee</strong></span><strong> (San Diego State) -</strong> Kazee might not be an outside corner at the next level. However, he showed good athleticism, feet, and hips and great ball skills in drills. Kazee looks like a great option as a nickel corner going forward and could be a steal in the mid rounds.</li>
<li id="gVP1Bn">
<span><strong>Jabrill Peppers</strong></span><strong> (Michigan) -</strong> Peppers is showing up on the field for the second day in a row. His movement skills should have stood out against linebackers, but his easy and explosive athleticism still looks good even when surrounded by other DBs. </li>
<li id="KwdxYx">
<span><strong>Obi Melifonwu</strong></span><strong> (UConn) - </strong>If <span>Melifonwu</span> was a curiosity before the combine, he is another player who locked down a first round selection with his work in Indy. He dominated the measurable drills and has looked remarkably smooth for such a big player in the positional drills. </li>
<li id="FdfZtI">
<span><strong>Adoree Jackson</strong></span><strong> (USC) -</strong> Jackson does have issues on tape, and will need coaching at the next level. However, whatever coach gets his hands on him will have plenty to work with. Jackson might have been the easiest mover at the combine on top of being a tremendous athlete. </li>
<li id="RH2I17">
<span><strong>Shaquill Griffin</strong></span><strong> (Central Florida) -</strong> Griffin made himself some money today. Knocked for lacking long speed, but gave scouts something to think about with a 4.38 40-yard dash. He also showed very well in drills with easy movement and loose hips.</li>
<li id="AYDwEy">
<span><strong>Fabian Moreau</strong></span><strong> (UCLA) -</strong> <span>Moreau</span> was called a first round talent by his defenisve coordinator, and the player did his best to make an honest man out of his coach. Moreau threw down one of the best workouts of the DB group and showed excellent movement skills in drills.</li>
<li id="RHvzky">
<span><strong>Kevin King</strong></span><strong> (Washington) -</strong> There were questions whether or not <span>King</span> would be a corner or a safety at the next level, and he answered them well. Showing up at 6-foot-3, 200 pounds, he has excellent size paired with 4.45 speed. His hips weren’t exactly “oily,” but he moves very well for such a long corner.</li>
<li id="QmEkXW">
<span><strong>Josh Jones</strong></span><strong> (NC State) -</strong> <span>Jones</span> is one of the biggest defensive backs in attendance, and while his workout was overshadowed by Melifonwu’s, it was still very impressive. With the lines blurring between linebackers and safeties, and the incoming class of hyper-athletic tight ends, <span>Jones</span> likely made himself some money. </li>
</ul>
<p id="n6xeLs"><strong>Fallers</strong></p>
<ul>
<li id="X6PQBo">
<span><strong>Teez Tabor</strong></span><strong> (Florida) -</strong> Tabor had a disappointing workout as far as metrics are concerned. He still showed the quick feet, loose hips, and easy movement on the field that has him among the top of his position group. But, in such a loaded class, timing slowly could give scouts and GMs a reason to not select him as highly.</li>
<li id="jSkcsx">
<span><strong>Jourdan Lewis</strong></span><strong> (Michigan) -</strong> <span>Lewis</span> timed slower than expected and showed some stiff hips in drills. He did show quick feet and aggressive change of direction, so he will likely be a nickel at the next level. This isn’t a big fall, however. </li>
<li id="Q4pSox">
<span><strong>Jack Tocho</strong></span><strong> (North Carolina State) -</strong> <span>Tocho</span> disappointed in metrics but also appeared to labor in drills. He came into the combine a corner, but might now best be considered a safety. If teams have to project a player in such a deep draft, it will likely hurt his stock.</li>
<li id="jGQnwN">
<span><strong>Marshon Lattimore</strong></span><strong> (Ohio State) - </strong>Lattimore put down some really good work on the field and in the metrics. However at some point he suffered a hamstring injury, which is a big deal for a player who had hamstring surgery in 2014 and re-injured it again in 2015. </li>
</ul>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/6/14827864/nfl-scouting-combine-results-2017-melifonwu-conley-lattimore-defensive-backs-corners-workout-newsChris Pflum2017-03-06T13:00:01-05:002017-03-06T13:00:01-05:00Is Charles Harris the edge rusher the New York Giants need?
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<figcaption>Charles Harris | Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Missouri defensive end is a pass rusher — just ask him</p> <p id="KjN83F">The <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> have slapped <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2017/2/14/14584232/how-does-the-nfl-franchise-tag-work-players-paid">the franchise tag</a> on <span>Jason Pierre-Paul</span>, which means the bookends of Pierre-Paul and <span>Olivier Vernon</span> will return to the defense next season. Still, both players were on the field for an extraordinary numbers of snaps — at least until JPP got hurt. </p>
<p id="dBDynQ">Young players like <span>Romeo Okwara</span> and Owamagbe Odghizuwa have potential, and <span>Kerry Wynn</span> is a workman-like veteran, but the Giants’ defense could benefit from finding one more pure edge pass rusher to take some of the heat off Vernon and Pierre-Paul.</p>
<p id="jWCm7N">Perhaps someone like Missouri edge rusher <span>Charles Harris</span>, a 6-foot-3, 253-pound speed rusher who could garner late-first round consideration. <span>Harris</span> had 16 sacks and 30.5 tackles for loss over the past two seasons.</p>
<p id="rcbZjK">During a media interview at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a> over the weekend, <span>Harris</span> didn’t pull any punches about what he does best.</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="qfg1hi"><q>“I got here by sacking the quarterback.” — <em>DE Charles Harris</em></q></aside></div>
<p id="YHkmjQ">“I got here by sacking the quarterback. That's not a secret. So I feel like most teams are gonna play me how I'm supposed to get played,” <span>Harris</span> said. “That's me getting the quarterback. Me covering when I need to cover. When it's necessary, me playing special teams. Things like that. I'm big, I'm athletic, I can move. So really using my how I'm supposed to be used.”</p>
<p id="D12drQ">He’s got speed coming off the edge — just ask him.</p>
<p id="ut77M1">“I have a great first step,” <span>Harris</span> said. “I just thank God, just natural ability. To come out of that stance over and over and over in practice. That was our warmup — to come out of that stance.”</p>
<p id="SnFYRk"><a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/5/14820630/2017-nfl-scouting-combine-results-reddick-peppers-workout-garrett-allen-thomas-watt">Chris had Harris among his “risers”</a> from on-field defensive end/linebacker workouts.</p>
<blockquote><p id="zgkbff">Harris has issues as a run defender, but he is a terrific athlete with an explosive first step and a nasty spin move. He backed that up on the field and looked like a good fit as a “hybrid” edge rusher who could play as a rush linebacker or as a defensive end.</p></blockquote>
<p id="Nh9JwP">Harris believes he should be selected “top 15 at the least.”</p>
<p id="GiovBO">“That's really how I feel. I feel like my natural ability, my upscale (upside) is just amazing. I feel like I'm still raw at the game, I'm young at the game. I think coaches all know that I'm yearning to learn more, I'm eager to be better. I'm eager to be great,” Harris said.</p>
<p id="BMMxAl">“Actually, football wasn't big thing in my house growing up. We didn't have Super Bowl Sundays, we didn't have certain teams hanging up in the rafters. I don't have favorite team. That's why when coaches are asking me, who you want to play for, I really want to play for whoever's gonna take the chance on me. And just like Mizzou took a chance on me, I'll make their investment worthwhile.”</p>
<p id="0kEhxE">Here is Harris’s spider chart, showing how he compares to other defensive ends.</p>
<div id="5iQgKf"><iframe src="https://www.mockdraftable.com/embed/charles-harris?position=DE&page=GRAPH" width="480" height="651" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe></div>
<p id="uJhTpH"></p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/6/14828658/nfl-combine-draft-2017-de-charles-harris-new-york-giants-potential-targetEd Valentine2017-03-06T08:00:01-05:002017-03-06T08:00:01-05:00NFL Combine 2017: Ten defensive backs to watch on the last day of workouts
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Outback Bowl-Florida vs Iowa" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/5WPNxwjSvLT1qfSUVjhfElX0zfA=/0x37:2433x1659/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53516101/usa_today_9839706.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>A sensational defensive back class promises to put on a show</p> <p id="ip4vGa">The final day of the combine is often one of the most hotly anticipated. The defensive backs are some of the very best athletes on the field, and this year should be no different. </p>
<p id="ToG9g8">In fact, the 2017 defensive back class is anticipated to be one of the best in years, and we can expect a show today. </p>
<p id="noyJ5v">While the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a>’ secondary was the strength of the team in 2017, it pays to pay attention to these players. It never hurts to add depth and competition to even the strongest position, so which players should Giants fans be watching? </p>
<ul>
<li id="Sx3cbB">
<span><strong>Adoree Jackson</strong></span><strong> (DB, USC) -</strong> Where <span>Jackson</span> plays at the next level is up in the air. He could be a cornerback, he could be a safety, he could even find himself playing offense. Jackson is one of the most exciting athletes in the entire draft, and he should be fun to watch as he does athletic things. His positional drills could help teams decide what his future position will be.</li>
<li id="gA8rz2">
<span><strong>Sidney Jones</strong></span><strong> (CB, Washington) -</strong> With Marlon Humphrey and <span>Marshon Lattimore</span> getting more attention, this is Jones’ chance to remind everyone that he is one of the best corners in the land. He is a bit undersized, but an oily mover who should make the positional drills look easy. </li>
<li id="HhgzIX">
<span><strong>Fabian Moreau</strong></span><strong> (CB, UCLA) -</strong> <span>Moreau</span> put himself back on the national radar with a strong performance at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a>. His college coach believes that he has first round talent, but a lack of turnovers has kept him out of that conversation so far. If he can show that he is a better athlete than believed, and continue to be rock-solid in coverage, Moreau could make himself some money. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/nfl-daft-2017-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2017/1/19/14315502/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-fabian-moreau-cb-ucla-ny-giants-scouting-report-news-rumors">Prospect Profile</a>]</li>
<li id="bZthim">
<span><strong>Desmond King</strong></span><strong> (CB, Iowa) -</strong> <span>King</span> is in a similar situation as Moreau. He was one of the best coverage players in the country the last couple years, but he didn’t generate many turnovers last year. There was even talk that his lack of athleticism would force a move to safety. He recorded the top speed at the East-West shrine game, but his performance today could help determine his future. </li>
<li id="pmr9aZ">
<span><strong>Damontae Kazee</strong></span><strong> (CB, San Diego State) -</strong> <span>Kazee</span> is undersized and doesn’t look fast on tape, and that could keep him from being considered an outside corner. However, he is physical and sticky in man coverage, which should get him consideration as a nickel corner. He does have a reputation as a gambler who generates turnovers, but can get burned if he guesses wrong. </li>
<li id="5wadhq">
<span><strong>Kevin King</strong></span><strong> (CB, Washington) -</strong> Another Washington Husky to watch, <span>King</span> is an intriguing prospect. He has experience at both safety and corner, and rare size for either position. There will be questions about where he would play best at the next level and his workout could play a big role in what position he is drafted to play, and when.</li>
<li id="FclC6i">
<span><strong>Marcus Williams</strong></span><strong> (S, Utah) -</strong> With LSU’s <span>Jamal Adams</span> and OSU’s Malik Hooker dominating the headlines at the safety position, but the safety from Utah combines good size with dynamic playmaking ability. This is his chance to show that he is as good as the top guys on the same field, doing the same drills.</li>
<li id="g3GJdT">
<span><strong>Budda Baker</strong></span><strong> (S, Washington) -</strong> Like his teammate <span>Sidney Jones</span>, <span>Baker</span> is one of the best in the country at what he does, but doesn’t get the recognition. Baker isn’t a big enforcer of a safety, but rather a rangy free safety with the ability to lock down the deep middle of the field. He should show well in drills and surprise people who are discounting him because of his size (and Washignton playing late on the east coast). </li>
<li id="ROpjQr">
<span><strong>Eddie Jackson</strong></span><strong> (S, Alabama) -</strong> Something of a forgotten man this year, Jackson’s season was cut short by a broken arm. He is a true free safety with the versatility to come down and play cornerback, which defensive coaches will appreciate. His tackling needs work, but the combine should play to his strengths. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/22/14697352/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-eddie-jackson-s-alabama-ny-giants-scouting-report-news">Prospect Profile</a>]</li>
<li id="gAS9Sn">
<strong>Obi Malifonwu (S, UConn) -</strong> Not many fans knew about Malifonwu until he started getting some buzz at the start of the draft process. But he is big and very athletic, and put some good play on tape last year. He should put on a show today and could be a riser who surprises with how highly he is drafted.</li>
<li id="3B3imA">
<strong>BONUS - </strong><span><strong>Jabrill Peppers</strong></span><strong> (S, Michigan) -</strong> In what might be a combine first, Peppers will be doing his second workout today. Coaches and GMs are sure to love the work ethic and competitiveness requuered to overcome a raw deal and go through two complete combine workouts in consecutive days. But how will he look when stacked up against the rest of tgis stacked DB class?</li>
</ul>
<p id="LURISy">Use this as your open thread for today’s workouts and let us know who you are watching.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/6/14800884/nfl-combine-2017-defensive-backs-workouts-king-moreau-ny-giants-jackson-news-draftChris Pflum2017-03-05T12:00:02-05:002017-03-05T12:00:02-05:00NFL Combine 2017: Jerod Evans “wouldn’t mind” learning from Eli Manning
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<figcaption>Jerod Evans | Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Virginia Tech QB a potential mid-to late-round target</p> <p id="QPqRze">The <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> could be looking for a quarterback in the middle rounds of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2017 NFL Draft</a>, a player they would hope to develop as <span>Eli Manning</span> winds toward the end of his time as the team’s franchise quarterback. </p>
<p id="3H12zA">One player who could be under consideration if <span>Jerod Evans</span> of Virginia Tech. Evans, who said he has met with all 32 NFL teams, wouldn’t mind the job of being Manning’s understudy.</p>
<p id="fMK3xG">“I wouldn’t mind coming into the league and learning from a veteran at all. Learning form a guy of that magnitude and who has two <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> rings and knows a lot about the game, it doesn’t hurt me to sit behind a guy like that,” Evans said. “I think <span>Aaron Rodgers</span> did the same thing with <span>Brett Favre</span> so it wouldn’t bother me.”</p>
<p id="HJXuy5">Evans declared for the draft despite having a year of collegiate eligibility left, and despite many analysts believing the 6-foot-3, 232-pounder could have benefited from another year of college.</p>
<p id="6t4w1F">He had no doubt he made the right choice.</p>
<p id="czwSYh">“Me making that decision to leave was definitely not a rash decision. I never make rash decisions. It’s not in my nature. I’m very particular in what I do. I calculate every move I make, make no mistake about that. My dad is my consultant — he don’t make my decisions; I make my decisions because I’m a man, but I consulted with him on a lot of things ever since I left the Air Force Academy,” Evan said. “That was a big decision, leaving something that is certain for something uncertain. I went to Trinity Valley where I was not on scholarship; I was a walk-on. So that decision, then me going to Virginia Tech over the 20-30 schools I had, I prayed on that. So this is not my first big decision; this is the first big decision that y’all been keeping track of. It was definitely not rash; I just felt confident and comfortable and calm and ready with it.”</p>
<p id="x8TXxn"><a href="http://walterfootball.com/draft2017QB.php">Walter Football</a> said of Evans:</p>
<blockquote><p id="02kBkQ">“Evans has a good skill set with size and athleticism, but coming from a college system and his lack of experience, he is going to need some development for the NFL. Team sources have said they have graded Evans as a sixth- or seventh-rounder.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="eR3hBv">Will the Giants be the team that takes the chance they could develop Evans into a capable NFL quarterback?</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/5/14816110/nfl-combine-2017-jerod-evans-wouldnt-mind-learning-from-eli-manning-ny-giantsEd Valentine2017-03-05T08:00:01-05:002017-03-05T08:00:01-05:002017 NFL Combine: Could any of these LBs, DEs be New York Giants?
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<figcaption>Randy Sartin-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Ben McAdoo wants the Giants’ defense to play even better in 2017. Might they draft one these talented defenders?</p> <p id="fC5Sg0">It’s Sunday at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Scouting Combine</a>, so that means that its time for the defensive linemen and linebackers to take the field. With the depth of talented edge players in this year’s draft class, today promises to be an exciting day at the combine. </p>
<p id="hJuNup">The main player to watch is Texas A&M defensive end <span>Myles Garrett</span>, who might put on an all-time great workout. However, the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a>’ chances of drafting <span>Garrett</span> are approximately somewhere between “slim” and “none”. So with that in mind, let’s turn our attention to some prospects who could interest Jerry Reese and the Giants who could be there when the Giants make their selections. </p>
<p id="ucZth9"><em>Note: As of this writing, the status of </em><span><em>Derek Barnett</em></span><em> is unknown. He was reported to be be dealing with a virus and hoped to come out and compete today. </em></p>
<p id="TgIBOz"><span><strong>Solomon Thomas</strong></span><strong> (DE, Stanford) -</strong> While <span>Thomas</span> is an almost consensus first rounder, the opinion on him from there varies wildly. <span>Thomas</span> is a wrecking ball off the edge and his motor never seems to wind down. However, with a squatty build, evaluators seem perplexed as to his future position. A strong combine should help convince scouts that he can play on the edge in the NFL.</p>
<p id="8Wv4Vi"><span><strong>Tarell Basham</strong></span><strong> (DE, Ohio) -</strong> An small-school defensive end, <span>Basham</span> got himself noticed at the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a> with his speed off the edge in 1-on-1 drills. He is a bit undersized, but he has an NFL frame and was very productive at Miami of Ohio. He could boost his stock quite a bit by hanging with big school D-ends, and could prove to be a riser following the combine.</p>
<p id="RBv6gf"><span><strong>Caleb Brantley</strong></span><strong> (DT, Florida) -</strong> Defensive ends aren’t the only players to watch today at the combine. The Giants have a habit of adding defensive tackles the year before a current tackle enters free agency. With Jay Bromley’s rookie deal expiring next offseason, they could well look to draft a defensive tackle at some point highly. <span>Brantley</span> is one of the best two-way tackles in the draft, so he is a good one to keep an eye on. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/23/14712470/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-caleb-brantley-dt-florida-ny-giants-scouting-report-hankins">Prospect Profile</a>]</p>
<p id="uRJbp2"><span><strong>Carlos Watkins</strong></span><strong> (DT, Clemson) -</strong> Another good two-way tackle, <span>Watkins</span> was the <a href="https://www.shakinthesouthland.com/">Clemson Tigers</a> best pass rusher in 2016. He isn’t getting as much attention as other pass rushers, but a strong combine will change that. He is also stout enough against the run to play on all three downs. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/27/14751568/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-carlos-watkins-dt-clemson-ny-giants-scouting-report"><strong>Prospect Profile</strong></a>]</p>
<p id="BXhHIJ"><span><strong>T.J. Watt</strong></span><strong> (EDGE, Wisconsin) -</strong> The name gets headlines all by itself. People will be watching when the younger brother of one of the best defensive linemen — and most amazing athletes — in the NFL takes the field to work out. The younger <span>Watt</span> is a capable edge rusher with the size to put his hand in the ground as a defensive end. He will need to show that he can play in space if he wants to keep the “linebacker” designation, but the trademark “Watt” hustle and work ethic will be on display.</p>
<p id="u9KZdU"><span><strong>Tyus Bowser</strong></span><strong> (EDGE, Houston) -</strong> Another lesser known edge player, <span>Bowser</span> not only has the name of a famed Nintendo villain, but speed and agility off the edge. Like Basham he turned heads at the Senior Bowl with his explosiveness off the edge. Bowser will likely be a rush linebacker who could come down to the line of scrimmage in nickel situations at the next level. It will be interesting to see how he performs in linebacker drills on the field, and they could play a big role in his stock.</p>
<p id="G8hPZm"><span><strong>Charles Harris</strong></span><strong> (EDGE, Missouri) -</strong> <span>Harris</span> has one of the best first steps in the draft and an absolutely nasty spin move. How he measures could decide whether the NFL views him as a rush linebacker or a defensive end, and he will need to show the NFL that he isn’t hopeless as a run defender to really help his draft stock.</p>
<p id="RRXP38"><span><strong>Carl Lawson</strong></span><strong> (EDGE, Auburn) -</strong> After being slowed for much of his college career by injuries, <span>Lawson</span> was finally healthy in 2016, and it showed on the field. He has never produced the stats he has been expected to, but his rush prowess has an undeniable effect on the field. However, the questions NFL teams will most like to see answered is if his torn ACL and hip injury have robbed him of any ability, and if he is an injury risk going forward. </p>
<p id="oE6wUU"><span><strong>Haason Reddick</strong></span><strong> (LB/EDGE, Temple) -</strong> <span>Reddick</span> came to Temple as a defensive back, and transformed into an undersized defensive end. He raised eyebrows by playing inside linebacker at the Senior Bowl, and then raised them even further by excelling at the position. His athleticism is beyond question, and right now the biggest question about Reddick is “how high can he push his stock?”. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/9/14559470/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-haason-reddick-lb-edge-temple-ny-giants-scouting-reports-news">Prospect Profile</a>]</p>
<p id="MxR54V"><span><strong>Zach Cunningham</strong></span><strong> (LB, Vanderbilt) -</strong> <span>Cunningham</span> was probably miscast in 2016 as an inside linebacker, but he showed nice instincts and physicality coming downhill to play the run. He is long and athletic, and should look really good in the on-field portion of the combine. The NFL will be most interested in how he performs in the pass rush drills after rarely being asked to rush the passer in college. [<a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/2/14483692/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-zach-cunningham-olb-vanderbilt-ny-giants-vanderbilt-scouting-report">Prospect Profile</a>]</p>
<p id="VG3XyN"><em>Use this as your open thread for today’s workouts</em></p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/5/14790490/nfl-scouting-combine-defensive-line-linebackers-workoutChris Pflum2017-03-05T06:30:01-05:002017-03-05T06:30:01-05:00Mayock: Offensive tackle is “weakness” of 2017 NFL Draft
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<img alt="NFL: Combine" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Np079EH3geQCHW1sugPbUfjutEY=/0x0:3333x2222/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53539361/usa_today_9912453.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Taylor Moton | Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>NFL Network guru says Western Michigan’s Taylor Moton a Day 2 player to watch</p> <p id="eIZuEv">Before the 2017 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Scouting combine</a> began, NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock said the offensive tackle class in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">2017 NFL Draft</a> <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/28/14766950/nfl-draft-2017-offensive-tackle-class-mike-mayock-ny-giants-ramczyk-bolles-robinson">was not a good one</a>. He reiterated that during a press conference on Saturday, one day after watching those linemen go through their paces on the field at Lucas Oil Stadium.</p>
<p id="ykDgRO">“The offensive tackle class, as good as this draft is, that’s where the weakness is,” Mayock said. “This running back class is the best I’ve seen in years, like the tight end class, like the corner class, like the edge class, like the safety class.”</p>
<p id="dWffoU">So, let’s suppose the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> are unable to sign a top-tier tackle like <span>Russell Okung</span> or <span>Ricky Wagner</span> in free agency, then find neither <span>Ryan Ramczyk</span> or Gerett Bolles available to them in Round 1 of the draft. Is there any good news?</p>
<p id="WRevFw">Mayock said there is one second-day right tackle prospect he has been impressed with.</p>
<p id="JWn1qe">“The guy that’s helped himself in the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a>/Combine process is <span>Taylor Moton</span> from Western Michigan,” Mayock said. “Lot of people thought he might be a guard. I think he’s going to be a tackle.”</p>
<p id="bZEFIr"><span>Moton</span> measured 6-foot-5, 319 pounds this week, down from 330 pounds during the season. In his <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/1/28/14424124/2017-nfl-draft-prospect-profile-taylor-moton-ol-western-michigan-ny-giants-scouting-report-new">prospect profile of Moton</a>, Chris wasn’t certain he fits the Giants. Moton ranks No. 68 on the <a href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/2/8/14546536/2017-nfl-draft-rankings-big-blue-view-top-100-big-board-ny-giants-news-rumors">Big Blue View Big Board</a>.</p>
<h3 id="qlS98W">Defensive line, linebackers hit the field</h3>
<p id="yfB1Po">Defensive linemen and linebackers go through on-field workouts Sunday morning. Chris will have a full look at players to watch, but here are a couple of guys Mayock will be eye-balling. Both coincidentally, could be on the Giants’ radar.</p>
<p id="aEUUyw"><span><strong>Haason Reddick</strong></span><strong>, LB, Temple</strong></p>
<p id="gPxVg6">“I’m a big <span>Haason Reddick</span> guy. Teams are look at him as a 4-3 WiLL and a 3-4 inside WILL. He can drop, he can run, he can actually blitz. The job he did covering running backs at the Senior Bowl, he’s gone from maybe a third, fourth-round guy to probably a second-round player. If he runs 4.55 [in the 40-yard dash] I think he’s gonna be in the [Round 1] conversation with [Zach] Cunningham, I really do.”</p>
<p id="EaaAVr"><strong>Tanoh Kpassagnon, DE, Villanova</strong></p>
<p id="dZk4Ai">“His ceiling is really high. I think he’s going to fit as a developmental defensive end. If he does well tomorrow [today], which I think he will it wouldn’t surprise me if he went in the second round. He probably fits more in the third or fourth round just because of what you’re gonna get out of him in the next year or two, but his ceiling is huge.”</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/5/14817862/nfl-combine-2017-mike-mayock-offensive-tackle-is-weakness-of-2017-nfl-draft-taylor-motonEd Valentine2017-03-04T16:42:52-05:002017-03-04T16:42:52-05:00NFL Combine Results, Risers and Fallers: John Ross is the combine’s fastest man
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<img alt="NCAA Football: Pac-12 Championship-Colorado vs Washington" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ic9w7wLClWih2Yvvza6mQPeVW_g=/0x344:1941x1638/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53536505/usa_today_9726731.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>John Ross stole the headline, but who else helped themselves Saturday in Indy?</p> <p id="NlR0fU">The quarterbacks, wide receivers, and tight ends took the field on Saturday, and while we knew we were in for a show, we didn’t know how good it was going to be. </p>
<p id="tW0Dhw">The story of the day is the dethroning of <span>Chris Johnson</span> as the “Fastest Man In The NFL”, when Washington receiver <span>John Ross</span> blew past <span>Johnson</span>’s 4.24-second 40-yard dash record. But there were other terrific performances, and Ross wasn’t the only prospect to set a record Saturday. </p>
<p id="ncJkWs">We know the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> were paying attention to the tight ends, but how did the rest of the positions do? </p>
<h3 id="PxkqEU">Quarterbacks</h3>
<p id="05fSbA"><strong>Risers </strong></p>
<p id="DhBJVw"><strong>DeShaun Watson (Clemson) -</strong> We already knew that Watson is a great athlete. He helped himself today by making everything look easy when it came to delivering the ball to the receivers. He had been out of the conversation for top quarterback, but he might have re-entered that discussion.</p>
<p id="XJ3gD2"><span><strong>Brad Kaaya</strong></span><strong> (Miami) -</strong> When it came to looking good as a pro style quarterback, <span>Kaaya</span> aced the test. He has plenty of experience in a pro style system, and it showed. His feet were clean and mechanics smooth making “NFL” throws. His issues come when the pocket gets dirty and he is under pressure, so the combine plays to his strengths. </p>
<h3 id="Z1KCQX">Wide Receivers </h3>
<p id="jRtHT8"><strong>Big Winner - </strong><span><strong>John Ross</strong></span><strong> (Washington) </strong></p>
<p id="Nm4Yz2">Ross’ day ended early thanks to a calf cramp, but after putting up a record-breaking time in the 40-yard dash, that doesn’t matter. He started strong with great numbers in the broad and vertical jumps, then stole the show with a 4.22 second 40 yard dash. He also reportedly blew teams away in meetings. There are some decision makers who think he has vaulted into the top 10 of the draft.</p>
<p id="pA4SQM"><strong>Risers</strong></p>
<p id="Gj5Grd"><strong>Charles Godwin (Penn State) - </strong>Godwin came on strong for Penn State towards the end of the season and carried that momentum through to Indy. He ran faster than anticipated, and and showed good hands in the receiver drills. </p>
<p id="UgQ8H5"><span><strong>Zay Jones</strong></span><strong> (ECU) -</strong> Jones has been in Cooper Kupp’s shadow throughout the draft process so far. He emerged as a player in his own right today. He had some of the best numbers of any receiver and was impressive in drills. </p>
<p id="AbosqV"><span><strong>Carlos Henderson</strong></span><strong> (Louisiana Tech) -</strong> Henderson came into the combine as an “under the radar” prospect. However, after running faster than expected and looking smooth and natural in drills, His is a name everyone should remember.</p>
<p id="DaML3L"><strong>Krishawn Hogan (Marian) -</strong> One of the biggest receivers in the building, Hogan is a small school player who took advantage of his opportunity. His workout was impressive and he showed that he could hang with the bigger-school prospects.</p>
<p id="bj0Atz"><span><strong>Kenny Golladay</strong></span><strong> (Northern Illinois) -</strong> Called a “triangle” player by Mike Mayock, <span>Golladay</span> certainly possesses an intriguing blend of height, weight, and speed. Measuring in as one of the bigger receivers, he sowed an impressive burst off the line and out of his breaks. That is a good trait for a big receiver.</p>
<p id="Il6XIm"><span><strong>Curtis Samuel</strong></span><strong> (Ohio State) -</strong> A running back / wide receiver hybrid for Ohio State, teams might not have known quite what to make of <span>Samuel</span>. After a 4.31 second 40, he should be drafted as a play-maker who can threaten defenses from all over the field. </p>
<p id="Fl1Xni"><strong>Fallers</strong></p>
<p id="cBK2gr"><span><strong>Travin Dural</strong></span><strong> (LSU) -</strong> Speed was supposed to be <span>Dural</span>’s stock in trade, but his workout seemed to fall flat after turning a 4.6 forty yard dash. His long strides would likely eat up field in a game, but as he was already handicapped by poor quarterback play, he doesn’t have much film to fall back on.</p>
<p id="DUGfaE"><span><strong>Corey Davis</strong></span><strong> (WMU) -</strong> <span>Davis</span> was in the conversation for the top wide receiver in the draft. However, an ankle injury has kept him from working out with the rest of the receivers. In his absence, John Ross set a new record for the 40 yard dash. And in the process of stealing the show, Ross may have leapfrogged both Davis and Williams in the minds of general managers at the top of the draft.</p>
<h3 id="RwnkLZ">Tight Ends</h3>
<p id="0sHU5N"><strong>Big Winner - </strong><span><strong>Evan Engram</strong></span><strong> (Ole Miss)</strong> </p>
<p id="kWPJcb"><span>Engram</span> did it all today. Not only was he at the top of the class as far as measureables are concerned (his 4.42-second 40-yard dash speaks for itself), but he was excellent in the positional drills. Smooth and effortless running routes and showed natural hands catching the ball. He is under-sized, but for the team that likes to attack match-ups, Engram will be a weapon. </p>
<p id="IuvMK0"><strong>Risers</strong></p>
<p id="enmYUI"><span>Bucky Hodges</span> (Virginia Tech) - Arguably the best athlete at the combine, many wondered whether <span>Hodges</span> would come in heavier than 240 pounds. He showed up at nearly 260 pounds, still turned in a 4.57-second 40, 39-inch vertical, and a combine record 11’2” broad jump. Hodges looked uncomfortable blocking out of a three-point stance, but he showed natural hands as a receiver.</p>
<p id="NJjVZW"><span><strong>George Kittle</strong></span><strong> (Iowa) -</strong> <span>Kittle</span> isn’t widely known, but he had a strong showing. Likely a hybrid or H-back tight end at the next level, he showed surprising athleticism both in measureable events and position drills. </p>
<p id="VK6LiO"><strong>Adam Shaheen (Ashland) - </strong>This was Shaheen’s introduction to many outside of the NFL. He showed off the athleticism that has scouts buzzing, while also looking surprisingly polished as a receiver, rarely fighting the ball. </p>
<p id="BilnhN"><strong>Fallers</strong></p>
<p id="QIDaY3">In a tight end class this good, nobody really hurt themselves. It would have been nice, however, to see <span>Jordan Leggett</span> (Clemson) and Eric Saubert (Drake) run the 40, instead of waiting for their Pro Days.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/4/14814146/nfl-combine-results-risers-fallers-john-ross-40-time-record-hodges-howard-watson-engram-shaheenChris Pflum2017-03-04T10:42:44-05:002017-03-04T10:42:44-05:00N.J. native David Njoku says it would be “awesome” to come home with Giants
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<img alt="NFL: Combine" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/TgCXLx3RPRhgfz432OLQyg_prAs=/0x0:5760x3840/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53532919/usa_today_9913718.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>David Njoku | Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Tight end says he grew up watching Giants, Jets</p> <p id="hwPucE">Tight end <span>David Njoku</span> is the player most often given to the <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> in mock drafts. He also happens to be a Cedar Grove, N.J. native who grew up rooting for the Giants and <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a> who says it would be “awesome” to play for one of those two teams.</p>
<p id="c7Mvsv">“It feels like yesterday that I was a little kid and I was the biggest fan watching them on TV, hoping one day I would go to a game, and now I’m here and could possibly be on that team next season. It’s a great blessing,” <span>Njoku</span> said. “To go home? That would mean a lot. I mean, anywhere I go honestly is a blessing, but being raised in Jersey and watching the Giants and the Jets and having them both as my top two favorite teams when I was younger, it would be awesome.”</p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="h6LaDN"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"NFL Combine Results: OT Garett Bolles may have risen out of New York Giants’ reach","url":"http://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/3/14807594/nfl-combine-results-ot-garett-bolles-may-have-risen-out-of-new-york-giants-reach"}]}'></div></aside></div>
<p id="lOKDlm">Njoku confirmed the Giants are one of the many teams he has met with.</p>
<p id="DGjxaM">“When it comes to formal and informal meetings, I’ve probably met with all of them,” Njoku said. “I think wherever I go, I can definitely bring speed. I’m willing to block anywhere, attached or detached. Speed. And a lot of fun.”</p>
<p id="Q5lQYV">Could he be bringing that fun to New Jersey as a member of the Giants? We’ll find out in a few weeks.</p>
<div id="2FyM7W"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FFCrLKkcX0w" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2017/3/4/14813986/nfl-combine-draft-nj-native-david-njoku-ny-giantsinterviewEd Valentine