New York Giants 2017 Roster Preview: Safeties
By Sean Dyer
Landon Collins
It’s hard to argue that any player improved more from their rookie year to their second season than Landon Collins.
As a rookie in 2015, Collins had 112 total tackles, nine pass breakups, and an interception. Those are solid numbers, but if you watch the tape, Collins was lost in coverage. Forced to play free safety because of a lack of better options, Collins was beat time and again in the passing game.
Moved back to his natural strong safety position in 2016, Collins was free to roam in and around the box. The position change worked wonders for Landon Collins. In his second season, Collins had 125 total tackles (100 solo), four sacks, 13 pass breakups, and five interceptions.
Already a hard-hitter coming out of Alabama, Landon Collins improved his pass coverage and has become a complete safety.
Collins was the New York Giants defensive MVP in 2016. He made first-team All-Pro and, in my opinion, deserved to be named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.
In the Giants preseason opener last week, it looked as if Collins had been checking off each day on his calendar until he could hit someone again. Collins was flying around the field making plays. He said himself, “when I’m on the field, I’m going to be full speed.”
I’m expecting another big year from the Giants strong safety and our site expert John Franklin predicted that Landon Collins will win NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2017 on our NFL Preseason Special of Empire Writes Back the Podcast.
Collins is a big part of Big Blue’s defense and he should only improve throughout his Giants career. We are looking at the next great safety in the NFL.