With the draft almost upon us, linebacker/defensive end Adam Brandt is one name to lookout for when it comes to the New York Giants.
By Jack Aylmer
The New York Giants spent big time money to bring talented edge rusher Olivier Vernon over from the Miami Dolphins this offseason, as well as shelled out a new deal to re-sign defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul.
However, Big Blue’s quest to add talented sack artists to their struggling defense from a year ago should not end there. After all, New York’s 2007 and 2011 championship defenses were built on having a strong front four with a plethora of players that could rush the quarterback.
Southern Illinois outside linebacker/defensive end Adam Brandt is a long and athletic prospect capable of getting to the quarterback and disrupting the offense, and the kind of player the Giants need to take a look at.
The 6’5″ and 255 lbs Brandt has the ideal height and weight to be a productive 4-3 defensive end at the NFL level.
The grandson of John Brandt, a former Buffalo Bill, he will finish his college football playing days with career numbers of 84 total tackles, 5.5 sacks, 11.5 tackles for a loss, and one interception.
“I would compare myself to Ryan Kerrigan, outside linebacker for the Washington Redskins,” said Brandt. “A long-rangy linebacker who likes to rush the passer and create havoc in the back field. I take pride in getting physical in the run game and holding the edge. I have a High motor with great effort and a knack for special teams, whether it’s blocking, or pinning my ears back on the kick off.“
While Brandt has dealt with a few off the field issues during his time at Southern Illinois, losing several games due to suspensions, he has made it clear he is putting those issues behind him.
“I believe an NFL team should take a chance on drafting or signing me because I can help your organization not only on the field but off the field,” explained Brandt. “Reaching out to the community and being a role model for those who are in need, all while representing the organization in a professional manner.“
Brandt participated in the FCS Bowl, receiving plenty of attention from scouts after the event. He often played with his hand in the dirt during his college career, but many think his high motor and aggressiveness could make a switch to outside linebacker or a “tweener” 4-3 defensive end well within his skill set.
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The Giants experimented with implementing the stand-up “tweener” role into their defense with Justin Tuck a few years ago, and with athletic edge players like the newly added Vernon and potentially Brandt, it could be something they revisit.
“Along with that my efforts on the field such as my relentless attitude and high motor to get to the ball can make others around me better, and the overall organization as well,” said Brandt.
With a 34.5 inch vertical and 4.8 second forty-yard dash, Brandt has tantalizing athleticism to go along with his already impressive size.
His intense competitive spirit and solid frame should make him a solid pickup for any team looking to add a skilled edge rusher to their roster, something New York desperately needs more of.
