Giants’ 2nd-year linebacker making waves

nfl: new york giants at san francisco 49ers, micah mcfadden

Sep 21, 2023; Santa Clara, California, USA; San Francisco 49ers running back Elijah Mitchell (25) is tackled by New York Giants linebacker Micah McFadden (41) in the second quarter at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Giants have experienced a lot of disappointment this season, but one young linebacker has been a bright spot for the team. Micah McFadden turned in a solid performance in the Giants’ 14–7 victory over the Washington Commanders on Sunday, building on what has been an impressive start to his second season.

Micah McFadden turns in elite Week 7 performance

McFadden posted his second elite performance in a row in Week 7. The 23-year-old recorded half of a sack and five total tackles to go along with a season-best two quarterback hits.

His efforts earned him a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 89.8, which was the best among all linebackers in Week 7.

The Giants are forming an impressive linebacker corps

After McFadden’s struggles through portions of his rookie season inspired Big Blue to sign Bobby Okereke and acquire Isaiah Simmons in the offseason, the second-year linebacker is starting to break out and potentially create a formidable linebacker group for the Giants’ defense.

So far this season, we have seen McFadden yield positive results in pass coverage and run defense. He is second on the team in total tackles with 43 (25 solo), only trailing Okereke in that category, and has also recorded an interception and a fumble recovery this season.

If there is any glimmer of hope that can come out of what has been a dark season so far, it is that McFadden’s rapid development could make him a crucial piece of the defense moving forward.

Big Blue’s defense has risen to the occasion

As the Giants look to salvage their season, they will need to continue receiving positive contributions from McFadden and the rest of their defense. In their last two games, they have allowed just a combined 21 points.

McFadden will have another opportunity to continue building off of solid performances when the Giants take on their crosstown rival, the New York Jets, in Week 8.

Follow this writer on X: @DylanBacker_

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