New York Giants 2016 NFL Draft Grades

Clemson Linebacker B.J. Goodson

Linebacker has been a need for the Giants forever. There are many people that will undoubtedly be frustrated that they passed on UCLA linebacker Myles Jack with the 10th overall pick; Jack fell out of the first round altogether, as the Jacksonville Jaguars traded up in the second round to snag him with the 36th overall pick.

But with their fourth round pick, the Giants found someone that could really help in the second level this season. Goodson didn’t break in as a starter for Clemson until his senior season, but he crushed it when given the opportunity, as he led the team in tackles. Goodson gives the Giants a two-down thumper in the middle, with adequate skills in pass coverage.

The Giants’ linebackers struggled mightily last season in coverage, constantly being exposed by opponent’s running backs and linebackers whether it be man-to-man or zone coverage. Goodson isn’t great in coverage, but he always gives effort. He is better in zone coverage than man, and uses good angles to cover running backs out of the backfield.

He could use some work as a pass rusher, as he also shows effort here but lacks a counter move if his first one is stopped. He has good timing though, which is half the battle when rushing the passer, he just doesn’t always have the athleticism and burst to finish the play.

While the Giants still need a linebacker that can play sideline to sideline, Goodson is a solid prospect that could take over in the middle eventually. He is the exact type of linebacker the Giants love, and landing him in the fourth round with the 109th pick is spot on value. This was a solid selection by the Giants, and one that ESPN’s Todd McShay called their best selection of the 2016 NFL Draft.

Grade: B+

Next: Fifth Round Grade