As part of The Post’s preview of the 2022 NFL Draft, we examine what the Giants could do at each position. Linebackers Today Next: Cornerbacks.
Much of the valuation of this position hinges on Blake Martinez’s health. He made his Giants debut in 2020 as advertised, with a team-high 151 tackles at center.
He tore his ACL in Week 3 last season and should be ready to roll sometime this summer. Barring any physical limitations, he expects to anchor new coordinator Wink Martindale’s defense. Otherwise there are many questions.
Tae Crowder started all 17 games in 2021 and amassed 130 tackles – he’s more than his “Mr. Irrelevant draft status, but likely a cut below desirable NFL starter material. Quincy Roche (2.5 sacks) blitzed a bit late last season. There’s not much in the way of depth.
Leo ChenalAP
Devin Lloyd (Utah) is undoubtedly a first-round pick, and so is Nakobe Dean (Georgia), although small.
But at #5 or #7? That would be a stretch. More likely, the Giants will look to strengthen that position on day two of the draft. Leo Chenal was a force for Wisconsin’s top-ranked defense in 2021 — 115 tackles total, 18.5 tackles for losses, eight sacks, two forced fumbles — and then tested the charts at the combine.
To get him, the Giants may need to make the call in the second round (No. 36 overall) as he appears to be climbing the draft boards. Christian Harris (Alabama) had a great performance in losing the national championship game to Georgia — three sacks, four tackles for loss — and could be an option.