Ahmad “Sauce” Gardner is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2022 NFL draft as his stock continues to rise.
The Cincinnati Bearcats corner did not allow one touchdown throughout his college career. His 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame combined with his above-average 4.41 40-yard dash time makes him an elite physical talent at the cornerback position.
Gardner excels in press coverage having “played over 100 more snaps in press coverage than anyone else in the FBS since 2019” while also leading all cornerbacks in coverage grade during those reps according to PFF.
This makes Sauce Gardner a perfect fit for the New York Giants and defensive coordinator Don “Wink” Martindale, says Anthony Treash of PFF.
Gardner is too good in press coverage to not be used in press in the NFL, and either of the two New York teams would be a perfect fit for the Cincinnati corner.
The 6-foot-3, 190-pounder has played over 100 more snaps in press coverage than anyone else in the FBS since 2019, and he leads the entire group in coverage grade on those reps. He has big-time arm length at 33.5-inches and brings the alpha mentality during one-on-one reps.
Regardless of the NFL team he ends up with, Gardner will have to get used to playing more off-zone than he did in college. But if he lands with either the Giants or Jets, his transition to the pros would be as smooth as can be.
Martindale is known for his aggressive blitz schemes and man coverage which would, indeed, be perfect for Gardner, who is likely a top-10 selection in the draft making him a potential selection for the Giants in the fifth or seventh overall pick.
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