NFL Draft Round Three: Giants Select N.C. State DT B.J. Hill

With the 69th overall pick in the third round, the New York Giants select N.C. State defensive tackle B.J. Hill.

While the Giants did pass on Bradley Chubb in the first round, they do select his Wolfpack teammate. The 6-3, 311 pound defensive tackle made a splash at the scouting combine, as he performed 35 reps on the bench press, which was the third-most among defensive linemen. Hill has also set himself apart as being one of the more athletic tackles in this draft class, as well as moving fluidly along the line of scrimmage.

During his senior season with the Wolfpack, Hill recorded 55 total tackles (3.5 for a loss), three passes defended, two sacks, and one forced fumble.

How Hill Fits in New York

As we all know, the Giants are switching to a 3-4 defense under new coordinator James Bettcher, who had one of the best squads in the past three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals.

New York already has Damon Harrison locked in as the primary nose tackle in Bettcher’s scheme, but Hill has the opportunity to usurp Dalvin Tomlinson for the backup role in 2018. Not only that, but he could find himself with a primary role in the future.

Ironically, Hill has received comparisons to former Giants defensive tackle Linval Joseph. The comparisons are not done there, as he was called the defensive equivalent of Will Hernandez by head coach Pat Shurmur.

The Giants have had trouble stopping the run last season, ranking 27th in rush defense (120.8 yards/game). Hill will certainly help improve that, as he solidified himself as a run stopper during his time with N.C. State, and is looking to bring that same ability to New York.