New York Giants fans may need to lower their expectations for this draft pick.
The New York Giants knew they needed to address their cornerback room heading into the NFL Draft, and they did that by nabbing Tennessee Volunteers star Colton Hood with the 37th overall pick in the second round.
LSU's Mansoor Delane went No. 6 to the Kansas City Chiefs, and Hood's collegiate teammate, Jermod McCoy, fell the way to Round 4 due to medical concerns, so Hood was actually the third cornerback chosen (San Diego State star Chris Johnson was selected by the Miami Dolphins at No. 27).
In spite of the fact that Hood wasn't as prominent of a prospect as Delane or McCoy, most agreed that he was a sound pick for a Giants squad that needed a tough, tenacious player in its secondary.
The problem is that Hood might not be ready to contribute in a big way right off the bat, which is worrisome considering New York lost Cor'Dale Flott to free agency and replaced him with Greg Newsome II, a pretty clear downgrade.
Pro Football Focus does not seem to be enamored with Big Blue's decision to draft Hood, at least as far as instant production is concerned.
Colton Hood. Credit: USA TODAY Network."Hood is a talented but inconsistent young prospect who needs further development," PFF wrote. "With only one full season as a starter, he may struggle early if tasked with covering NFL receivers right away."
There is a lot to like about Hood. He has decent size at six feet tall, 195 pounds, he's physical, he tackles well and he has a terrific motor. However, there is no question he is a bit raw and could use some seasoning before the Giants can fully unleash him.
To be fair to Hood, this is the case for the vast majority of rookie corners, as cornerback is one of the most difficult positions to play in all of sports. And while Pro Football Focus doesn't think Hood will be an immediate stud, it does seem to believe that New York landed good value in the 21-year-old at No. 37.
But there is no question that the Giants' cornerback group is a major cause for concern given how disappointing Paulson Adebo was last season. Adebo is definitely a bounce-back candidate, but if he doesn't rebound, New York's pass defense could be in for a rough time next fall.
That's especially if Hood proves to be far from NFL-ready.
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