As the New York Giants look to revamp their defensive roster for the 2020 season, all eyes turn to Xavier McKinney. The versatile safety out of Alabama was selected in the second round of the 2020 NFL Draft, and the sky looks to be the limit for the 21 year-old defensive leader. With a strong college resume and a NFL ready profile, Xavier McKinney of the New York Giants looks to be a name to remember.
Who is Xavier McKinney?
Xavier McKinney, a native of Roswell, Georgia, is a former 5-star recruit out of Roswell High School and the 19th overall recruit of the state of Georgia in 2017. After high school, Xavier elected to attend the University of Alabama and continued his football career with head coach Nick Saban.
At Alabama, McKinney had an impressive entry into the Crimson Tide’s storied defensive tradition. He immediately established himself as one of the key pieces of the team’s secondary and worked his way up to a starting role as a sophomore. In the process, McKinney earned several accolades and recognition from media outlets and national award committees. During his time at Alabama, McKinney became a 2x All-SEC honor recipient and was awarded the 2019 Jack Tatum award for the nation’s best defensive back.
Highlights from College Career
Xavier McKinney’s college career was filled with achievements and highlights. He started a total of 28 games and earned 180 tackles, 15 tackles for a loss, 5.5 sacks, 4 INTs, and 6 PBU. In the 2019 season, he racked up a total of 74 total tackles, 4 TFLs, 1 INT, 2 PBU, 2 FFs, 2 FRs, and a fumble recovery touchdown. This performance earned him First-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC honors.
In addition to powerhouse performances in college games, Xavier McKinney scored well in the NFL Combine. His 40-yard dash finish at 4.63 seconds, along with 16 bench press reps, 4.33 second 20-yard shuttle, and solid 7.09 3-cone drills, proved he was NFL ready.
Why the New York Giants Drafted Xavier McKinney
The 2020 NFL Draft was a big moment for Xavier McKinney. The athletic safety was drafted by the New York Giants in the second round with the 36th overall pick. The New York Giants used this pick to gain a versatile defensive back for their roster.
Xavier McKinney brings a mixed bag of football skills to the New York Giants. Primarily a centerfield-style safety, McKinney’s college career proved that he can do it all. He is an excellent free or strong safety, and consistently displays a nose for the ball that allows him to make plays all over the field. In addition to his linebacker-like tackling ability and good coverage skills, McKinney also provides a well-polished pass rush that is relatively uncommon in the NFL.
What Makes Xavier McKinney Special?
In addition to the proven college performance and NFL-ready measurables, there is something special that Xavier McKinney has that other players in the league lack—poise and leadership.
McKinney was listed as a team captain for the Alabama Crimson Tide in the 2019 season, where he displayed excellent leadership on and off the field. He is a vocal leader and an on-field general for the defense, calling the tactics and making necessary adjustments to the defensive sets. Whether that’s signaling routes for cornerbacks, sniffing out plays for the line, or calling out blockers on the offensive line, McKinney is always there to provide help to his teammates. His leadership is unrivaled, and he is a naturally born leader with a knack for the defensive game.
What to Expect from Xavier McKinney
With all of the greatness that Xavier McKinney has already achieved, the sky is the limit for the young safety. In 2020, the safety will most likely command the New York Giants’ defensive backend and show why they made him their draft selection.
McKinney should immediately dive into the mix of the Giants defense and bring the physicality and leadership qualities that made him so successful in college. He will play a part in the Giants’ version of the “Generational Talent” when he lines up with the likes of Leonard Williams and De’Andre Baker. Complete with his knowledge of the 3-4 system, Xavier McKinney could possibly become an All-Pro safety within his first year in the league.
Xavier McKinney, the versatile safety for the New York Giants, looks like he is destined for success in the NFL. After a successful college career, McKinney brings a plethora of skills that the Giants will benefit from in 2020 and in the seasons to come.
Expectations are high, but if McKinney lives up to his high school and college reputation, the Giants could have a star on their team. With determination, poise, and elite football talent, Xavier McKinney will make a name for himself in the NFL and help the New York Giants reach their full defensive potential.
