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New York Giants select Northern Iowa EDGE rusher Elerson Smith with 116th pick

While everybody expected the New York Giants to draft an interior offensive lineman with 116th overall pick, they took an interesting approach, landing Northern Iowa pass rusher Elerson Smith. The 6’6″ and 252-pound defender is a bit skinny and could use some more weight in the trenches, but he has incredible athleticism and a tall, bendy frame.

While he continues to fill out his frame with muscle mass, Smith should see an increase in power. He already has quality speed, but transitioning speed to power will be the next step in his development.

I see Smith as a situational pass rusher who can offer value in sub-packages; he can contribute in similar situations, like when the Giants faced off against the Seattle Seahawks and utilized Carter Coughlin as a spy on the edge.