New York Giants' third-round pick Darius Alexander could be a key part of the defense in 2025.
The New York Giants went into the draft this season hoping to add some depth to the defensive line.
After the team drafted Abdul Carter with the No. 3 overall pick, general manager Joe Schoen took Toledo defensive tackle Darius Alexander in the third round, helping to solidify the unit with early picks.
Alexander is already known as a stout run defender, and that's something the Giants desperately needed to improve on heading into 2025.
Bucs Wire predicted every team's possible surprise from the NFL Draft this year, and Alexander is on the list for New York.
"While all eyes will be on quarterback Jaxson Dart and edge rusher Abdul Carter, the biggest rookie surprise may come from third-round defensive tackle Darius Alexander," Dan Benton of Giants Wire wrote. "Assuming he returns to full health, Alexander will likely play a significant role for the Giants, providing depth on the inside and pairing with All-Pro Dexter Lawrence. It was an area of concern for the Giants last season, and Alexander is viewed as having huge upside and a high floor.
"He will see an increased number of snaps as he develops and the season goes on."
Shoen also added Chauncy Golston, Roy Robertson-Harris and Jeremiah Ledbetter in free agency in an attempt to completely rebuild the line.
Stopping the run is a priority for the Giants next season, and Schoen seems to have made strides in that regard.
Alexander had 26 tackles at or behind the line of scrimmage on designed rushes since the start of 2023 - that's the fifth-most in FBS.
New York finished 27th in the league in run defense last season.
English (US) ·