Could Demetrius Knight II Be the Next Key Piece for the Giants’ Linebacker Corps?
The New York Giants have seen solid production from their linebackers over the last two seasons, thanks to Bobby Okereke and the emergence of Micah McFadden. But with Okereke taking a slight step back in 2024, could New York look to bolster its defense with another versatile, three-down linebacker?
Enter Demetrius Knight II, the South Carolina standout who has quickly become one of the most intriguing linebacker prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft.
From Quarterback to Linebacker – Knight’s Unlikely Rise
Knight’s journey to the defensive side of the ball is far from conventional. Originally recruited as a quarterback at Georgia Tech in 2019, he transitioned to linebacker and has since played at Charlotte and South Carolina. Despite having just six years of experience on defense, he has developed into one of the most well-rounded and versatile linebackers in the country.
Standing 6-foot-1 ½ inches, 246 pounds, with 33-inch arms, Knight has the size, instincts, and athleticism to be a legitimate three-down player in today’s NFL.
Breaking Down Knight’s Game – Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths
✔ Size & Athleticism – Knight possesses ideal NFL linebacker size but moves with surprising quickness and fluidity. His ability to change direction and cover ground in the second level makes him a valuable asset in pass coverage and run defense.
✔ Football IQ & Play Recognition – Knight has shown exceptional instincts for a player relatively new to the linebacker position. He diagnoses plays quickly, positions himself effectively, and communicates well with his teammates.
✔ Pass Coverage & Zone Drops – He excels in zone coverage, getting good depth in his drops and reading the quarterback’s eyes. He does a great job of anticipating throws and triggering on the ball to make plays.
✔ Run Defense & Block Shedding – Knight uses his long arms and physicality to stack and shed blocks, especially against tight ends and smaller linemen. He’s an active run defender who leverages his positioning to force ball carriers into bad angles.
✔ Reliable Tackler & Physical Presence – Once he gets his hands on a ball carrier, it’s over. He’s a hard hitter with a knack for finishing plays.
Weaknesses
❌ Blitzing & Pass Rush – While he has the physical tools to be an effective pass rusher, Knight lacks aggression when blitzing and has just 4.5 career sacks in 61 games. He occasionally appears hesitant when rushing the passer.
❌ Top-End Speed – Knight is a good, not elite athlete. While he covers ground well, he isn’t a true sideline-to-sideline linebacker and could struggle to keep up with elite speedsters in man coverage.
Film Breakdown & NFL Projection
📽 Games Watched: vs. LSU (2024), Ole Miss (2024), Missouri (2024), Clemson (2024)
Knight’s versatility makes him a plug-and-play option for multiple defensive schemes. He projects as a starting off-ball linebacker at the NFL level, capable of playing inside (MIKE) or outside (WILL, SAM).
His football IQ, tackling ability, and coverage skills give him three-down potential, and while he isn’t an elite pass rusher, his instincts and leadership make up for it.
Expect Knight to be a Day 2 pick, likely coming off the board in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Would Knight Be a Fit for the Giants?
Absolutely.
With Bobby Okereke and Micah McFadden already in place, adding Demetrius Knight II could give the Giants a young, athletic trio at linebacker. His ability to stop the run, drop into coverage, and communicate on the field would make him an instant contributor in New York’s defensive scheme.
While the Giants might prioritize other needs early in the draft, if Knight is still available in the second round, he could be too good to pass up.
