Landon Collins is the Best Safety in the NFL

Even with all of the big-money off season moves by the Giants to bring in top free-agent talent like Damon Harrison, Janoris Jenkins, and Olivier Vernon, the undisputed leader of the Giants' revamped defense has been safety Landon Collins. Statistically, Collins is the most well rounded defensive back in the league and is currently the Giants team leader in tackles, sacks, and turnovers. Despite the Giants defense only forcing 10 turnovers so far this season, tied for 3rd worst in the NFL, Collins is second in the league with 4 interceptions, including a pick six. The second year Alabama man also ranks tied for 5th in the league with 60 solo tackles and is the only defensive back in the top 10. Collins has also recorded 3 sacks this season, which ties him with Green Bay's Morgan Burnett for most by a defensive back in the NFL.  But more than just his impressive statistics is Collins' knack to make clutch plays at big times during games. Most notable is Collins' interception return for a touchdown to tie the game against the Rams in week 7, which swung momentum in the Giants favor. But equally as important was his pick against Andy Dalton in the 4th quarter to stall the driving Bengals and preserve New York's 1 point lead. Coming out of Alabama in 2015, Collins was not only not known for his ball skills, but many scouts believed that they were one of his weaknesses and considered him more of a hard-hitting, run-stopping, strong safety. Collins, however, is probably the most improved player in the league and has shown a tremendous commitment to polish his all-around defensive image and emerge as the NFL's best safety. If he can keep up his production, which shows no signs of slowing down, Collins will be a shoe-in not only for a trip to Honolulu, but also a spot on the NFL All-Pro 1st team, which would be a first for a Giants defensive player since Jason Pierre-Paul in 2011.