New York Giants rookie linebacker Micah McFadden got an education in his first year in the NFL.
The fifth-round draft pick (No. 146 overall) out of Indiana was the only member of the Giants’ 2022 11-man draft class that played in all 17 games last season.
McFadden took over at inside linebacker after Tae Crowder fell out of favor during the season and then started seven games. He ended the season with 59 total tackles (six for a loss) with two QB hits and a forced fumble.
McFadden was clearly in over his head on some plays but mostly he showed development and the Giants have him in their plans going forward.
During a recent appearance on the Tallen Time Podcast, McFadden spoke about the biggest differences between the college and pro game.
“A lot of people don’t understand the difference between the NFL and college. It’s like night and day, with just the expertise and experience that guys have. You’re playing against guys who have been in the league for 10-15 and they have it down to a science,” McFadden said.
“Now the biggest difference for me is having to play physical into the line of scrimmage. You get that experience in college playing against Ohio State and Michigan. It was definitely a transition in training camp and during the season.’
“It’s definitely a long haul. It’s pretty much two college seasons back to back. Even those preseason games, being a young guy, you play the whole game. But you’re certainly blessed to be there and play the game that you love.”
The Giants are likely to bring in some competition to challenge McFadden this summer. Darrian Beavers, another 2022 draft pick, will be back after missing his rookie year to a knee injury. The team will also likely draft an off-ball linebacker or two and may even bring back veteran Jarrad Davis and/or Jaylon Smith.
McFadden also revealed what he learned during his rookie year in East Rutherford.
“Shedding blockers, that was a big adjustment at my position. It’s become a passing game, and that’s so important these days,” he said. “For me, covering backs out of the backfield was a learning experience, too. The biggest thing is that everything is heightened, from practice, meetings, everything. When you’re playing 22-24 weeks in a row, you need to know what to expect and what to prepare for. You have a pattern and what to expect, and the coaches do a great job with all of that.”
Yes, shedding blockers was one of his weaknesses early on, but as stated, he improved over time. The Giants are looking forward to seeing exactly how big of a leap McFadden can make in Year 2.
