New York Giants: 5 Potential Targets On Day 2 Of 2015 NFL Draft
Jalen Collins, Cornerback, LSU
Nov 23, 2013; Baton Rouge, LA, USA; LSU Tigers cornerback Jalen Collins (32) raises his arm to the crowd prior to kickoff against the Texas A&M Aggies at Tiger Stadium. LSU defeated Texas A&M 34-10. Mandatory Credit: Crystal LoGiudice-USA TODAY Sports
Collins is another player that is listed as a cornerback, but built in the mold of a safety. With the frequency NFL teams are now passing the ball, you can never have enough size at the cornerback position, and a player that is built like a safety cannot hurt.
Collins has exceptional cover skills, as his closing burst and elite size give him exceptional range to make up for his sometimes lacking quickness out of breaks or hand skills at the line of scrimmage. He has solid skills recognizing what is coming, as he reacts well and can diagnose when a run play is coming. He also has solid awareness, which helps when deciphering play action or double moves by receivers.
His athleticism allows for him to challenge bigger receivers on contested throws, as he has good length, strength and leaping abilities, recording a 36-inch vertical leap. He does leave a little something to be desired in the playmaking department though, as he doesn’t always make the big play. He recorded 25 pass breakups in his career, which is a strong number, but only recorded three interceptions. When you are getting your hands on the ball that often, you would hope for a couple more interceptions but as long as he is not giving up big plays that is truly what matters.
Like the other players on this list, Collins is a solid contributor in the run game. It was a struggle overall for the Giants trying to stop the run last season, so they will take the help wherever they can get it from.
He has some injury concerns, missing his pro day after undergoing surgery for a stress fracture in March. But, he should be ready for mini camp. Collins would also give the Giants insurance in case Amukamara cannot return from injury, and he could also become a free agent after the season.
Next: Arkansas Edge Rusher