2.28: SS Xavion Alford, 71OVR
Development Chance: Low, projected 1-2 DDT points
With the twenty eighth pick in the second round, the Giants selected strong safety Xavion Alford from Arizona State. This was a pick straight out of positional need with the Giants not having a third round pick. The team didn’t have a strong safety they were comfortable in using so they knew that they had to draft one. Downs and Thieneman were the top two that the Giants have on their board. They were both picked in the second round so the Giants went with who was on the top of their board at this point.
Although Alford is all but sure that he won’t get a development trait, he was the best safety at this point to pick up. This is proven with the fact that the other safeties were drafted lower than his 71 overall. He comes out of the gate with 91 speed, 94 acceleration, 87 change of direction, and 82 hit power. He has the physical tools to be a great safety in the league. His coverages need work, but the huge issue is his injury rating. He has a 83 injury rating, mixed with 84 stamina, and 82 toughness. These all will make it tough to be a hard hitting safety, while staying healthy. Alford may make a big hit then take himself out. These will all be built to 85 with attribute requests but that may not be enough. Alford will start the season, and we will see how this goes.
It would be great if he could get a good development trait, but with his projected points being low, star dev is the hope at this point.
