[tps_title]Development of Young Defensive Players[/tps_title]
The Giants defense has been less than stellar this season to put things lightly. However, there have been some young players who have stood out. Second-year defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins has started all 14 games this season, recording 48 tackles and 7 sacks. He has been a beast in both run stuffing and rushing the passer and is quietly emerging as one of the best defensive tackles in the league. Rookie linebacker Devon Kennard has proven to be a steal being taken in the fifth round. Right away the Giants knew they had something in Kennard with his quickness, size and instincts. Although a lingering hamstring injury stalled his development, he has accumulated 39 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, and 4.5 sacks (all in the last 3 games). His play earned him defensive rookie of the week honors for his play against Tennessee, where he recorded 6 tackles, 2 sacks, and a forced fumble. These players are poised to emerge as top tier defensive players in 2015.
