Matt Deiana, RB, William Patterson
The 5’7″ and 187 lbs Deiana jumps off the tape as a runner with his incredible vision as a runner and ability to make defenders miss. A team captain his senior season, Deiana ranks fourth All-Time in rushing in William Patterson school history, sixth All-Time in all-purpose yards in school history, and holds the records for the max bench press and dead-lift ever done by a running back at the school.
“I would most compare my play to Darren Sproles, because we both play much bigger than our size,” noted Deiana. “Both of us are utilized to catch passes, but can also run the ball inside and be accountable in pass protection when necessary. Our size doesn’t have an effect on our play and we also can contribute on special teams.”
The All-NJAC Second Team honoree was a redshirt in 2011 with the University of Connecticut and played his 2012 season at SUNY Cortland. During his three seasons with William Patterson, Deiana took 331 carries for 1492 yards and six touchdowns, while adding 44 catches for 414 yards and one touchdown in the passing game.
“I thought it went really well,” said Deiana on his Giants’ visit. “The running backs coach had a lot of positives to say to me during drills and at the end of the day told me I had great feet and hands, so we will see.”
Deiana best projects as a priority free agent signing for the Giants. Should the team pick him up, he would have to battle fellow change of pace runners Bobby Rainey and Orleans Darkwa for a roster spot. Deiana’s ability to also contribute as a slot receiver, kick returner, punt returner, and gunner should give him somewhat of advantage, as he attempts to compete with the NFL experience of Rainey and Darkwa.
