The 2017 NCAA leader in tackles was a First Team All-Conference player who ran a forty time in the high 4.6’s at his Pro Day. His 29 reps on the bench press would have been first amongst off-the-ball linebackers at the combine and his 6.97 3-cone time would have ranked in the top ten at the position. While these accolades, statistics, and workout numbers are impressive, Frank Ginda’s biggest strength is his ability to play with the game with outstanding instincts.
The former San Jose State linebacker took home All-Mountain West First Team honors after setting the conference record for tackles in a single season.
He’s also one of the most underrated players in the 2018 NFL Draft. While we project Ginda to get the call late on Day 3, it wouldn’t be at all surprising to see him make a team and contribute early on.
Most rookies are asked to contribute on special teams and that’s an opportunity Ginda relishes. His excitement in a recent interview with us was genuine when he said, “I just like doing that stuff. I just think it’s fun; just running down the field like a bat out of hell.” It’s clear he’ll be meeting with his future special teams coach shortly after learning where he lands later this month.
Make no mistake, Ginda also offers plenty of potential to his future defense as well. I think he fits best as a MIKE or SAM in a 4-3 base or an inside backer in a 3-4 front. Ginda may only be a 2-down player who comes off the field on third down or in nickel and dime packages, but his better-than-expected speed and quickness times at his Pro Day show that he may have the potential to cover tight ends and running backs after a couple years of development.
Naysayers will argue that his tackle numbers are inflated by the ineptitude of San Jose State’s offense this past season. While my days with ESPN Stats & Information taught me that college tackle statistics are generally inaccurate and unreliable, it’s clear that Ginda was consistently in position to get to the football due to his high football IQ. NFL personnel won’t care about the numbers, but they’ll be impressed by how often he was able to put himself in position to make plays on film.
Some may have had questions about his medical report after his involvement in a minor automobile accident when stopped at a red light. Keep in mind, that took place before his Pro Day so Ginda has proven that it is a non-issue. He also talked a bit about it and reinforced that he is fine when he joined us on the podcast.
He mentioned that he did not have any official visits scheduled with NFL franchises as of this past Wednesday evening, but Frank Ginda’s instincts, underrated athleticism, enthusiasm to play special teams, and overall character will absolutely propel him to an NFL training camp this upcoming July.