The New York Giants’ final four rounds of work in the 2012 NFL draft were not anything noteworthy, but their selections did a lot to add necessary depth. Although promising developmental projects, the majority of these picks were not big contributors in their rookie seasons. But then, most late-round players aren’t.
The progress of these four players is something to keep an eye on going forward. More will be expected from each as training camp kicks off this summer and job opportunities will be available if they can earn the approval of their coaches.
Adrien Robinson, TE, Cincinnati
The Giants selected Cincinnati tight end Adrien Robinson in the fourth round — much earlier than many analysts predicted. He saw just three offensive snaps in 2012 but will likely get more playing time in 2013.
An amazingly gifted athlete, Robinson has the tools to develop into a Jimmy Graham or Antonio Gates-esque playmaker at the tight end position. Of course, his 29 career receptions at Cincinnati could be a bit of a concern, but he played in a very run-heavy offense in which he was underutilized. If respected tight ends coach Mike Pope can work some magic, it is very possible Robinson may perhaps evolve into a lethal piece in the Giants’ offensive attack.
Grading the Selection: C-. I’m still not sold on this pick. Partly because this was a huge reach for a guy many believed would not even be drafted, but also because he’s shown nothing to date. A fourth-round pick shouldn’t be a starter from day one, but Robinson was way too raw to spend such an early-round pick on.
Brandon Mosley, OT, Auburn
This lineman was a highly-regarded offensive tackle when he first left Auburn, but his stock quickly fell. The Giants added him at a steal rate in the fourth round with high hopes that he might develop into a starter in a year or two.
Mosley didn’t really get to see the field in 2012, but that doesn’t mean he won’t get his shot this upcoming season. The right tackle job should be wide open, even with veteran offensive lineman David Diehl’s return. A solid summer could garner Mosley the opportunity.
The former Tiger boasts some impressive athleticism for a tackle, which plays in his favor. He may never prove to be anything more than a backup at the NFL level but his versatility at both tackle positions should keep him on a roster.
Grading the Selection: B-. Mosley has not contributed yet and, even if he never does, his presence provides much-needed depth. He has potential and he’ll have a chance to prove his worth in training camp.
Matt McCants, OT, Alabama-Birmingham
Sixth-round selection Matt McCants was an intriguing prospect because of his mammoth height (6-foot-7) combined with unparalleled athleticism for someone of that size.
Unfortunately, like Robinson, McCants is still very raw. His technique needs refining and he must find a way to bulk up (he is only 295 pounds) if he’s going to be able to push opposing defenders around.
Possessing quick feet, McCants moves well off the ball, shuffling and staying in front of opposing pass-rushers. With time and effort, the former UAB star could develop into a serviceable left tackle in the NFL. However, he’ll have to earn his way onto the field first.
Grading the Selection: B. I like this guy. Size alone makes him an interesting prospect. He has the tools to be successful… it’s just a matter of bringing them all together.
Markus Kuhn, DT, North Carolina State
Seventh-round draft pick Markus Kuhn was a pleasant surprise for the Giants in 2012. The defensive lineman out of North Carolina State played 173 defensive snaps according to Pro Football Focus, and was featured as a key player in the Giants’ defensive line rotation.
Kuhn struggled against the run, as he did in college. His pass defense — which improved over time — was impressive. Unfortunately, his season was cut short by a torn ACL in Week 10 against the Cincinnati Bengals. He logged eight tackles before the injury.
With the departure of defensive linemen Chris Canty and Osi Umenyiora, Kuhn should be a factor in the Giants’ rotation once again in 2013. The stout defensive tackle earned quality playing time this past season. The Giants will hope that this can translate into improved play and a greater presence on defense in the future.
Grading the Selection: A. Even if Kuhn never develops into a serviceable, every-down player, he contributed quite a bit in his rookie season despite being a seventh-round pick. He showed promise in 2012 and could be featured more prominently on passing downs in 2013. That is, as long as his ACL injury doesn’t stunt his development and keep him from reaching his potential.
Louis Musto is a writer and host of upcoming show, The Morning View, on the Sports Journey Broadcast Network. You can follow him on Twitter @LouisMusto.