8. Kenny Phillips
Position: Free Safety
College: Miami (FL)
Overall Pick: 31
Year Drafted: 2008
Free safety Kenny Phillips has similarities to the previous two guys on the list. Like Ereck Flowers, he attended school at the University of Miami. Like David Wilson, he was the Giants first round selection in the draft following their Super Bowl triumph. Also like Wilson, Kenny Phillips career was derailed by injuries.
When healthy, Kenny Phillips was among the best players in the New York Giants secondary. However, he was oft-injured during his four seasons in New York, most notably in 2009, when he only played 2 games.
Phillips did have his moments, however, most notably during the 2011 season. The Miami alumni recorded career highs in tackles (82), interceptions (4), and pass deflections (11). He played a big role in the Giants secondary, partnering with fellow Miami alum Antrell Rolle at the safety position. The Giants faced Matt Ryan, Aaron Rodgers, Colin Kaepernick (when he was actually good at football), and Tom Brady that postseason, and managed to win all four games, a testament to how strong a presence Phillips had in the backfield.
Following the 2012 Super Bowl triumph, Phillips signed with the rival Philadelphia Eagles, but struggled both in Philly and with the Saints, before announcing his retirement due to injuries.
While Phillips never became an elite safety, he did contribute to a Super Bowl title, and thus cannot be considered a bust, but rather an underwhelming selection in the tail end of the 2008 first round.