2020 NFL Mock Draft, Week 6: Chase Young takes top spot
By Phil Poling
Defensive End. 6. player. 31. Scouting Report. Iowa Hawkeyes. A.J. Epenesa. Pick Analysis
After what appeared to be a reach in the 2019 NFL Draft for Duke quarterback Daniel Jones, the New York Giants draft one of the more sure-fire prospects in 2020 in Iowa defensive end A.J. Epenesa. He doesn’t necessarily fit their new 3-4 scheme, but his versatility and track record of dominance should translate to any front in the NFL.
Epenesa isn’t Chase Young, but he’s the second-best pass rusher in the 2020 NFL Draft. He stands 6-foot-6 and is listed at 280 pounds, so he could see a switch to outside linebacker in a 3-4 depending on how he tests at the NFL Combine. He racked up 10.5 sacks a year ago, including 16.5 tackles for loss, while also tallying four forced fumbles and three pass deflections
He’s not the flashy name Giants’ fans might want, but he’s a hard-nosed Hawkeye who will come in and help add to the growing culture in New York. Since Odell Beckham, Jr.’s departure, the team’s been searching for an identity. Saquon Barkley alone doesn’t provide one, but him, along with Daniel Jones and Epenesa? That’s a solid core to build around moving forward.