New York Giants Select Inside Linebacker B.J. Goodson 109th Overall
The New York Giants hit a need with their fourth round pick, selecting linebacker B.J. Goodson with the 109th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
The New York Giants finally addressed their need at linebacker, selecting Clemson inside linebacker B.J. Goodson with the 109th pick of the 2016 NFL Draft. Goodson is a player that could help out the Giants immediately, as Jerry Reese not only found value with the Giants’ fourth round pick, but also hit on a major need.
The linebacker spot is a mess for the Giants, as there is really no one that strikes fear into opponents. The Giants under Reese have essentially ignored the position, which has led to some lackluster production and a lack of depth and talent at the position. While Goodson is a fourth round pick, he should immediately provide production for the Giants in a number of ways.
Defensively, Goodson can play all over the field. He is a perfect fit for the Giants and their scheme, as he can play all three linebacker spots in the 4-3 base defense that the Giants use. He tested out better during the NFL Combine than people thought that he would, as he brings sneaky athleticism that doesn’t always show up on tape.
More from New York Giants
- Caesars New York Promo Code: Win $250 Bonus GUARANTEED on ANY Bet!
- When will the New York Giants’ First Win Come?
- New York Giants Look Horrible in Loss to 49ers
- New York Giants to Play an Injured 49ers Team Sunday
- New York Giants: Breaking Down the Devonta Freeman Signing
One of the weaknesses for Giants linebackers last season was the ability to defend the pass. It seemed that the linebackers were constantly being targeted by opposing quarterbacks and with great success. Goodson is capable of handling those responsibilities in zone coverage, where we saw some of the Giants players struggle. He sometimes will struggle in man-to-man coverage, but the Giants will not as him to do things he is not ready to do.
Goodson is above average against the run, as the Giants continue to add talent to try and slow down opposing running backs. While he is not the sideline-to-sideline monster that will chase people down, he plays with a good motor and takes strong angles to make up for the lack of athleticism. He is quick diagnosing the plays in front of him and will be a three-down player eventually for the Giants.
While his production isn’t as high as the Giants would like to see, as he was only a starter his senior season, he performed when given the chance. In that one season as starter, he led Clemson in tackles and was also named a captain of the team. The talent is there for the Goodson to become a contributor right away for the Giants; even if he doesn’t become a starter Day 1 at linebacker, he will contribute to special teams right away.
Next: New York Giants Seven-Round Mock Draft
This was an excellent pick for the Giants, as Goodson fits their profile for a linebacker that can play all three-downs and plays downhill with speed. The Giants are hoping that they hit with a fourth round linebacker once again, as 40 years ago they landed Harry Carson in the fourth round with the 105th pick in 1976.