The New York Giants have cut defensive tackle Ejijah Chatman, per a report from Dan Duggan of The Athletic.
The decision to cut Chatman comes as the first truly surprising move of of the Giants cuts. Chatman was a consistent presence on the defensive line since making the team as an undrafted rookie out of SMU last year. He worked with the first team throughout training camp and the preseason, making this decision something of a stunner.
Chatman is an undersized defensive tackle at 5-foot-11, 280 pounds, but he has explosive athleticism that makes him a hand full for opposing guards. He grabbed coaches’ attention with an incredible hustle play to prevent a touchdown on a breakaway run last year, and acquitted himself well when on the field in the regular season.
This year, Chatman has been a regular with the starting defense while also contributing on the offensive side of the ball as a fullback. That added responsibility, in addition to his uncommon skill set, made him an favorite to make the roster.
Instead, the Giants seem to be favoring size on their defensive interior front and leaving speed to their cadre of hyper-athletic edge rushers.
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