Alabama's first defensive player was drafted in the second round, the New York Giants selected Xavier McKinney with the 36th pick overall, the fourth pick in the second round. McKinney is the first safety off the board and the fifth Alabama player selected. He helps a pass defense that finished 28th in the league last season.

McKinney was the best defender on the field for the Crimson Tide this past season racking 95 tackles, three sacks, three interceptions and returned one for a touchdown. He earned First Team All SEC this past season.

The Giants select McKinney a year after allowing former Crimson Tide safety Landon Collins leave in free agency. He becomes the second draft pick for new head coach Joe Judge who spent time at Alabama as an assistant to the special teams.

Last year's 36th pick was Deebo Samuel to the San Francisco 49ers, he signed a four-year contract worth $7.7 million. McKinney will sign a similar contract with the Giants.

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