2019 NFL Draft: New York Giants full mock draft
By Joe Romano
Round 2 – Pick 37
Chase Winovich, EDGE, Michigan
One thing David Gettleman is known for is his adverse nature to selecting pass-rushers early in the draft. Throughout his tenure, defensive end and edge rushers just have not be a priority position in his eyes. During his tenure in Carolina he opted for defensive tackles and linebackers over ends and defensive backs. In fact, the highest defensive end that Gettleman has ever drafted was Kony Ealy towards the back end of the second round. He’s got a system to what he values on the field and pass rush from the outside is not near the top
That might change with this draft. New York is in desperate need of help getting to the quarterback. Markus Golden is a useful piece but not a long-term answer. Young players Lorenzo Carter and Avery Moss are expected to fill in a role as well. Carter especially needs to show progress after being a third round pick last year. Grabbing a player atop round two could complete the rotation.
Michigan’s Chase Winovich is the type of player that makes sense with Gettleman running the show. Someone who plays with a non-stop motor and team first mentality seems to fit what they are looking for. Winovich’s combine performance opened some eyes to the level of athlete he is on the field. He can’t match his teammate Rashan Gary but he is no slouch athletically. That is why, despite the Giants running an odd-man front, Winovich would slot in well on the edge. He’s a player that would not need to come off the field on early downs with his play strength and provides pass rush help on long downs.