Caleb Williams and Rome Odunze Featured in Giants’ Newest ‘Hard Knocks’ Episode originally appeared in NBC Sports Chicago
In the newest episode of the Giants’ version of “Hard Knocks,” the NFL Scouting Combine was the main focus.
At the combine, the Giants talked to a few rookies, including Bears‘ Caleb Williams and Roma Odunze.
Of Williams, the Giants praised his competitive nature. But they expressed concern about his attitude; specifically, him not dealing with the media after losing to UCLA during the 2023 season.
“I’m just seeing how he handled that adversity,” said Blaise Bell, an area scout for the Giants. “(He) refused to speak to the media after UCLA. Obviously, leaving our market, that’s prohibited. But other than that, everything checks out. The guy is a competitor, he loves football, he’s stuck.”
Meeting with the Giants in their suite at Lucas Oil Stadium, Williams impressed with his knowledge of the X’s and O’s. Coach Brian Daboll asked Williams if he had to throw one passing play all game, which one would he choose?
The Bears quarterback designed an empty pass with a series of options. He outlined a fade route, stick and deep corner routes while explaining his ability to get the ball over a receiver’s back shoulder and get it between defenders.
Daboll seemed impressed as he related the concept to his days with the Jets as Brett Favre’s coach. Then, Favre fired at his receivers downfield through a narrow window.
you get ONE pass to play
you have to run that ONE play EVERY TIME there is a passing play
so if there are 70 plays in a game and 45 passes, you will have to run that play 45 times
Do you know the part you want??? pic.twitter.com/2lLpYlXwi2
-Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) July 10, 2024
The Giants were impressed with Williams. But they didn’t seem to pay him any attention, probably because they knew the Bears would end up drafting him with the No. 1 pick in the draft — which they did.
As for Odunze, the Giants were in love with him. He was one of the few leading receivers to compete at the NFL Combine, participating in drills and running the 40-yard dash.
“You need to let me know every time Odunze is awake if I’m not paying attention,” GM Joe Schoen said.
Odunze was on the Giants’ radar before the draft. They seemed to be debating whether to trade up and sign a quarterback, or keep the No. 6 pick and land a wide receiver.
When they opted for the latter, the Giants certainly had Odunze in mind.
“Alpha,” Hannah Burnett, a University Area Girl Scout, said of Odunze. “He’s going to be an energetic guy. He can take control of a room, just by feeling that personality. This kid is smart, tough, trustworthy, whatever you want.”
During his meeting with the Giants, Odunze was friendly and respectful. He mentioned his characteristic versatility on the field, but also mentioned his ability to lift locker rooms.
The Giants were impressed, but were more enamored with LSU receiver Malik Nabers, who they ultimately selected No. 6 in the 2024 NFL Draft. They helped Odunze fall to the Bears at No. 9.
They, and certainly, the Falcons…
