New York Giants 2012 NFL Draft Profile: California OT Mitchell Schwartz
The New York Giants 2012 NFL Draft profile series moves right along with University of California offensive tackle Mitchell Schwartz, who has been linked to the Giants in the second round of a few mock drafts.
With the Giants current situation at offensive line, they could definitely look to improve the position in the first round. However after the top five offensive tackles, who all will likely be gone by the 32nd overall pick, there is a bit of a drop off in value.
Notice I said value, not talent, because while guys like Bobby Massie, Zebrie Sanders and Schwartz may not be first round prospects, they are very talented in their own right.
The Giants informed long time right tackle Kareem McKenzie he will not be brought back, leaving a gaping hole at the right tackle position. The Giants have options to fill the void, such as 2011 fourth round pick James Brewer or David Diehl. However, I would feel more comfortable if the Giants drafted someone in the first or second round (as long as he is worth the pick).
Schwartz offers versatility as a backup if the Giants go with Diehl for one last season. He played left tackle for 35 starts and right tackle for 16 starts in his career. Schwartz really opened eyes in front of NFL scouts at the Senior Bowl, who mostly thought he was a right tackle only at the next level.
He man handled some of college football’s elite pass rushers, proving he can be at the very least a backup left tackle in the NFL. He plays with a nice wide base and has good footwork keeping the edge while pass blocking.
Schwartz has a high football I.Q. and is a fantastic run blocker. He plays with a mean streak and has good instincts and looks comfortable pulling. He can get his pad level too high at times and is limited athletically. Does not have elite strength but uses his body well to get leverage run blocking. He should not be a long term option at left tackle but could fit right in on the right side for the Giants.
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