The New York Giants bypassed several offensive linemen and linebackers to select “country strong” Alabama DT Dalvin Tomlinson.
The New York Giants used the 55th pick in the NFL draft to select Alabama prospect, DT Dalvin Tomlinson. There was a hole created at the DT spot with the departure of Johnathan Hankins to the Indianapolis Colts.
Tomlinson was a sleeper choice, playing alongside so many talented Alabama defensive players. He had Ivy League offers coming out of high school, demonstrating his intelligence on and off the field. three-time time wrestling champion in high school, which he attributes to his success on the football field.
Tomlinson tore his ACL senior year of high school. After redshirting his freshman year, he tore the ACL in his other knee in 2013. He amassed 62 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss and three sacks as a seniorat Alabama.
Tomlinson possesses tremendous strength in his hands, allowing him to gain control of opposing linemen. He’s adept at locating the ball quickly and his hands are active in the passing lanes. He maintains gap leverage with his awareness and power until the tackle is completed. Tomlinson is very good at recognizing plays based on formations. The Giants will love the motor and effort he dedicates to the game. He was versatile within Alabama head coach Nick Saban’s scheme, playing both inside and outside.
Tomlinson is not known for his pass rushing ability. Most of his success rushing the passer in college was off twists and stunts.
He could be a perfect fit for the Giants inside lineman alongside Snacks Harrison. The Giants defensive scheme expects DT’s to mainly clog the middle and stop the run. There is a chance he could be used in twists and stunts as well. His lack of pass rushing ability will be hidden by the elite defensive ends Olivier Vernon and Jason Pierre Paul. There is potential for him to be an early starter, but definitely expect him in the defensive line rotation.
“Dalvin is strong, he is country strong, he has jolt, he has walk-back power, he is stout at the point of attack, he has sneaky athleticism and every down he plays hard. Every down.” – Giants VP of Player Evaluation Marc Ross
