Height/Weight: 6-5/267
| Birthdate: 03/08/1983
| Birthplace: Indianapolis, IN, USA
| Team: New York
| College: Boston College
| NFL Experience: 6
| Owned/Started%: 60/51 | Average Draft Position: 172.29
News: Giants DL/LB Mathias Kiwanuka totaled two solo tackles in Week 16 against the Jets. The two tackles were a season-low. He has 79 tackles on the season.
Analysis: Kiwanuka plays a hybrid LB-DL role for the Giants. Luckily for Fantasy owners is that he keeps his DL eligibility in Fantasy. That keeps Kiwanuka as a viable Fantasy start in IDP formats.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka totaled five tackles (three solo) in Week 15 against the Redskins. He now has 77 tackles in 14 games.
Analysis: Kiwanuka plays a hybrid LB-DL role for the Giants. Luckily for Fantasy owners is that he keeps his DL eligibility in Fantasy. That keeps Kiwanuka as a viable Fantasy start in IDP formats.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka posted four tackles in Week 12 against the Saints. He recorded three solo and assisted on another in the 49-24 loss.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a versatile defender that the Giants love to move around and he already has 3.5 sacks on the year. He also has 63 tackles and remains a viable Fantasy DL in the majority of IDP formats.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka led his team in tackles in Week 11 against the Eagles. He recorded six solo and assisted on one more, giving him seven total in the 17-10 loss. Three of Kiwanuka's tackles went for a loss.
Analysis: After recording just four tackles a week ago, Kiwanuka got back to his productive ways on Sunday and has 59 on the year. He also has 3.5 sacks and an interception. Because of his versatility, continue to view Kiwanuka as a viable Fantasy option in the majority of IDP formats.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka had just four tackles, including one for a loss, during New York's 27-20 loss to San Francisco in Week 10. Kiwanuka's total was his lowest since he recorded only three stops against St. Louis in the second game of the season.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was coming off a 12-tackle performance in his last game versus New England, but was one of several Giants held in check on Sunday. He has 52 total tackles this season, but his sack production seems inconsistent. Consider him a quality option in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka did something in Week 9 against the Patriots that he hadn't done since 2006 -- pick off a pass. He intercepted QB Tom Brady in the second quarter and finished with a team-high 12 tackles in the 24-20 win.
Analysis: Kiwanuka plays a hybrid role for the Giants as he can line up as a pass rusher and also drops back in coverage when need be. He has 3.5 sacks through the first eight games to go along with 48 tackles. He remains a viable option in Fantasy so keep Kiwanuka active in the majority of IDP formats going forward.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka totaled seven tackles (five solo) and 1 1/2 sacks Week 8 against the Dolphins. He now has 3 1/2 sacks in seven games.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is technically the Giants' starting strongside linebacker, but hei s still mostly used as a pass-rushing presence. He does have DL eligibility in Fantasy IDP formats, but he is more of a No. 2 option.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka was credited with seven tackles in Week 6 against Buffalo, including a sack. It was his second consecutive week with a sack.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has decent sack potential and can provide consistent tackle totals. His dual role as a player who can play both on and off the line makes him a versatile source for everything from passes defensed to sacks and tackles for a loss. He remains a viable option in any IDP format.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka was credited with two tackles in Week 5 against Seattle. One of those tackles was a sack, his first of the season.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has decent sack potential and can provide consistent tackle totals. His dual role as a player who can play both on and off the line makes him a versatile source for everything from passes defensed to sacks and tackles for a loss. He remains a viable option in any IDP format.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka had six solo tackles in New York's 31-27 win on Sunday against the Cardinals.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has tallied 18 tackles through the first four weeks of the season. He still has not recorded a sack for the Giants. While he has plenty of potential, Kiwanuka has to do more on a consistent basis to warrant more Fantasy attention. Right now, he is a low-end DL option in IDP leagues.
News: Giants SLB/DE Mathias Kiwanuka managed four tackles in Week 3 at Philadelphia. Kiwanuka was credited with one tackle for a loss.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has decent sack potential and can provide consistent tackle totals. His dual role as a player who can play both on and off the line makes him a versatile source for everything from passes defensed to sacks and tackles for a loss. He remains a viable option in any IDP format.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka recorded five tackles in Week 1 against the Redskins. One of those tackles went for a loss. He did not record a sack.
Analysis: With Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora both out due to injuries, Kiwanuka was able to step up. He did not get in on any of the four sacks, but he should remain a steady source for IDP production -- even as the team gets healthier.
News: Giants SLB/DE Mathias Kiwanuka left Monday's game against the Jets in the second quarter with a groin injury and is not expected to return. Undrafted rookie LB Mark Herzlich should pick up a few more snaps on the strongside in Kiwanuka's absence.
Analysis: Kiwanuka dealt with several injuries last season that limited him to playing in just three ball games, so Fantasy owners should keep a close eye on his status going forward. Groin issues can be very tricky. Kiwanuka is a solid Fantasy IDP producer when healthy, so he is still worth a late-round pick until the severity of the injury is known.
News: Giants DE/LB Mathias Kiwanuka will be the starting strongside linebacker says LB coach Jim Herrmann. Herrmann was complimentary toward LB Clint Sintim but said Kiwanuka would handle the position on first and second down. However, Herrmann said "All bets are off" on third down, so Kiwanuka could move back to DE in those circumstances.
Analysis: If Kiwanuka can stay healthy, his hybrid role could yield him some decent Fantasy points. Grab him with a late pick in IDP drafts.
News: The New York Post reports that Giants DL declared on Wednesday that he is fully healthy after missing the final 13 games of last season due to a herniated disc. “The herniation’s completely healed. Cleared to play some time ago,” he said. “It’s something I’ve been waiting for a few months now. I’m ready to go.”
Analysis: Kiwanuka's role will have a lot to do with what happens to DL Osi Umenyiora. Umenyiora had been given the green light to seek a trade due to his unhappiness with his current contract, but that green light was rescinded on Wednesday. Kiwanuka's chances at a breakout season would be greatly improved without Umenyiora on the roster. Continue to monitor his situation in the preseason.
News: The Giants reached an unofficial deal with defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka on Thursday. Fellow defensive end Justin Tuck posted on his Twitter account that the deal with his friend Kiwanuka had been secured: "Kiwi is returning to the big blue. Yes, sir."Kiwanuka is the team's most versatile defensive player, having seen time both at defensive end and outside linebacker. He is expected to be in attendance when the Giants officially open training camp Friday.
Analysis: Kiwanuka, a six-year veteran who played in only three games in 2010 due to a herniated disc in his neck, received medical clearance to return to football-related activities in February.Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress in camp as he regains football shape. Kiwanuka has the chance to regain his top-form from before the injury, and if he does, he will be worth a late-round pick in IDP formats on Draft Day.
News: Hours after Giants general manager Jerry Reese said at the NFL scouting combine that DE Mathias Kiwanuka's future was still in doubt due to his neck injury, New York released a statement saying he has been cleared by the team's medical staff, according to The Sports Xchange. "After I spoke to the media this morning at the combine, I had a conversation with [VP of medical services] Ronnie Barnes, who confirmed for me that last night we did receive the final written evaluation that gives Mathias medical clearance to return to the field," Reese said in the statement. "The consensus of all of the spine physicians and Dr. [Russ] Warren is that it is safe for Mathias to return to play. I have talked to Mathias and he is fully committed to returning to football."
Analysis: Earlier Friday, Reese told reporters that while the team was "getting good reports" on Kiwanuka, he wasn't entirely cleared in terms of medical evaluations. Kiwanuka is one of 20 Giants whose contracts expire March 3, and while Reese expects him to play again, nothing is guaranteed when it comes to neck injuries. "It's a possibility. Who knows?" Reese said. "Neck injuries are serious injuries and you have to be careful." Kiwanuka registered 11 tackles and four sacks before injuring his neck in Week 3 against Tennessee. He was placed on injured reserve and if he is able to regain his tenacity prior to the injury, makes for a viable option in Fantasy IDP leagues for 2011.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka, who hasn't played since Week 3 because of a bulging disk in his neck, was placed on injured reserve Thursday. According to the Newark Star Ledger, doctors are optimistic the injury will heal on it's own, but "it's just going to take time.”
Analysis: Kiwanuka had four sacks in three games before getting hurt this year, emerging as a useful option in Fantasy IDP leagues. Now that he's going to miss the rest of the season, you can cut him in all formats.
News: New York Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka (neck) has officially been listed as "out" for the Week 7 Monday night contest. Kiwanuka will miss the game against division-rival Dallas.
Analysis: Kiwanuka might have to miss even more than just Week 7 with this injury. Unless you have injury spots for Fantasy IDP players, you might consider cutting ties with Kiwanuka, who can be solid in IDP leagues when he's healthy.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka said that he is feeling better Thursday, but there's no timetable on his return from a bulging disc. "I'm trying to see every specialist in this area and across the country," said Kiwanuka, who said he has visited six different doctors for their opinions on his injury. "I'm grateful that some doctor saw the severity of my situation, because it could have saved my life and my career. I just can't go back and play right away, because I could be one hit away from paralysis."
Analysis: It looks like Kiwanuka is going to miss a good chunk of time with this injury, so unless you have an injury spot to stash him away in, owners in IDP Fantasy formats should probably think about cutting their losses at this point. Kiwanuka can be a solid IDP option when healthy.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka (neck) has officially been ruled out for the Week 6 game against the Lions, according to the official injury report. Kiwanuka took part in individual drills for the first time since doctors found a bulging disk in his neck a little less than two weeks ago. However, he has not been cleared for practice. Kiwanuka, who had been the team's best player on defense in the first three games, is hopeful that he will be back soon, but he admits there is a possibility he still might need surgery if the swelling around the disk does not subside.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was playing very well before this bulging cervical disk popped up, and he could well miss 2-3 months of action. The Giants clearly think he might be able to help them this season, otherwise they would have put him on IR already. Continue to stash Kiwanuka away in deeper IDP Fantasy leagues if you can afford to.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka took part in individual drills for the first time since doctors found a bulging disk in his neck a little less than two weeks ago. However, he has not been cleared for practice. Kiwanuka, who had been the team's best player on defense in the first three games, is hopeful that he will be back soon, but he admits there is a possibility he still might need surgery if the swelling around the disk does not subside.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was playing very well before this bulging cervical disk popped up, and he could well miss 2-3 months of action. The Giants clearly think he might be able to help them this season, otherwise they would have put him on IR already. Continue to stash Kiwanuka away in deeper IDP Fantasy leagues if you can afford to.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka (neck) was listed as inactive for Week 5, as expected. He had been ruled out earlier in the week.
Analysis: Kiwanuka could well miss 2-3 months of action. The Giants clearly think he might be able to help them this season, otherwise they would have put him on IR already. Continue to stash Kiwanuka away in deeper IDP Fantasy leagues if you can afford to.
News: The Giants have ruled out DL Mathias Kiwanuka (back) for their Week 5 game at Houston.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was playing very well before this bulging cervical disk popped up, and he could well miss 2-3 months of action. The Giants clearly think he might be able to help them this season, otherwise they would have put him on IR already. Continue to stash Kiwanuka away in deeper IDP Fantasy leagues if you can afford to.
News: Not only is Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (neck) ruled out for the Week 4 game against Chicago, he could be out for up to three months, reports ESPN.com. Kiwanuka has a bulging cervical disk in his neck. He underwent an MRI and CAT scan and the results say he could need anywhere from 2-3 months of recovery time. He will seek a second opinion. If he needs surgery, it would end his season.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was on a tear before being sidelined Friday. He had four sacks through three games, good for second in the NFL, to go with a forced fumble and 11 tackles. Kiwanuka was emerging as a Fantasy must-start in IDP leagues before the injury.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka (neck) has been ruled out for the Week 4 game against the Bears. The New York Daily News reports him having a bulging cervical disc in his neck. Kiwanuka practiced all week, in full participation, without appearing on the injury report before being added after Friday's practice. The severity of the injury is not yet known. "It's disappointing," Kiwanuka said in a statement. "It just feels like a stiff neck. The pain is not intolerable, but I want to make sure I will be OK down the line."
Analysis: Kiwanuka was on a tear before being sidelined Friday. He had four sacks through three games, good for second in the NFL. Kiwanuka was emerging as a Fantasy must-start in IDP leagues before the injury. Monitor his progress to see if he will be available Week 5 at Houston.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka recorded his fourth sack of the season in Week 3 against the Titans. He has had a sack in each of the team's first three games and recorded the only sack for the Giants against the Titans. He finished with four tackles in the game.
Analysis: Kiwanuka looks to be on the verge of a breakout season. He has already surpassed his sack total from a year ago and looks to be a very active part of the gameplans new coordinator Perry Fewell is putting together. He is emerging as a must-start in IDP leagues.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka, who had two sacks in the season opener against the Panthers, was the only Giant to record a sack Week 2 at Indianapolis. He also had three solo tackles.
Analysis: With three sacks, Kiwanuka has already equaled his total from last season. He seems to have a bigger role under new defensive coordinator Perry Fewell, which makes him worth adding off the waiver wire in all Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka recorded two sacks in Week 1 against Carolina, part of his four tackles. He also added one tackle for a loss and forced a fumble.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was part of an energized Giants defense that played well under new defensive coordinator Perry Fewell after struggling most of last season under Bill Sheridan. The team's aggressive blitzing schemes and solid play by Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora allowed Kiwanuka to break free and make an impact. Consider Kiwanuka more of a low-end No. 2 DL for now, but there is some serious growth potential here.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka attended a linebackers meeting Friday before taking reps on the strongside in practice Saturday. He and defensive line coach Robert Nunn agreed that the versatility of players like DT Chris Canty (who can play inside and outside) allow Kiwanuka to switch positions. From time to time during camp, the Giants have shown a five DL front. Canty slides to end, DT Rocky Bernard enters the game at tackle, and Kiwanuka moves to his old position, linebacker, giving him the option to stand or to drop his hand on the ground.
Analysis: Kiwanuka recorded only 46 tackles and three sacks last season, and is generally considered a disappointment after four years in the league. Until he shows signs of turning it on, he's not worth owning in Fantasy play. The only catch is if the Giants keep him designated as a defensive lineman but play him at linebacker -- that could make him an interesting late-round flier since there aren't a ton of DL-eligible Fantasy studs.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka (motorcycle accident) participated in Monday's practice and has lined up at various spots along the defensive line. He left practice last week to be with his brother, who got hurt in a motorcycle accident.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has a lot to live up to this season after being quiet statistically over his career. Consider him nothing more than a potential one-week replacement off waivers during the season as the Giants have a lot of pass rushers to work into the game and Kiwanuka has never been a monster tackler or sack producer.
News: The New York Post reports that Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka will be back at work this week for OTA workouts after a motorcycle accident last Friday in Indianapolis left his older brother, Benedict, in critical condition. His brother is now in stable condition but has a long road to recovery as he deals with a serious arm injury. Witnesses say the brothers were speeding and that Benedict Kiwanuka was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, which occurred when he hit a car pulling out of an apartment complex. Mathias was not involved in the crash.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a solid DL in IDP leagues. He should be considered a No. 2 option this year and is worth a late-round pick on Draft Day.
News: Several Giants defenders played well Sunday against the Cardinals. DB C.C. Brown had 11 tackles and a forced fumble. LB Antonio Pierce had 10 tackles. DB Terrell Thomas had seven tackles and an interception. DL Mathias Kiwanuka had two tackles and a sack. LB Justin Tuck had five tackles and a forced fumble. LB Danny Clark as one tackle and a sack. DL Osi Umenyiora had a tackle.
Analysis: The Giants should play well Sunday at the Eagles. Plan on starting all your regular Giants defenders in IDP leagues in Week 8 at Philadelphia.
News: Giants DLs Osi Umenyiora and Mathias Kiwanuka both failed to make a tackle in a Week 3 rout of the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Umenyiora is a must-start DE in all IDP Fantasy leagues, but the Bucs were so bad on Sunday they they didn't provide him with a tackle. Kiwanuka was filling in for Justin Tuck and only has value in deeper leagues heading into Week 4 at Kansas City.
News: Giants DL Justin Tuck, who was questionable with a shoulder injury for Week 3 at Tampa Bay, was not named among the inactives for the game, but will come off the bench behind DL Mathias Kiwanuka.
Analysis: Tuck is usually a No. 1 DL in IDP Fantasy leagues, but you'd be better off benching him in Week 3 with the fact his snaps will be limited. Kiwanuka is more of a low-end option.
News:The Sports Xchange notes that Mathias Kiwanuka, who can also play strong-side linebacker, will lose his starting job due to Osi Umenyiora's return. "I don't mind the role as a reserve," he said, "especially in our defense where we rotate the linemen so much. But I do miss the title of starter. It's an ego thing."
Analysis: Kiwanuka became a viable IDP option in antasy leagues last season due to the absence of Umenyiora, but he will enter this year as a backup in most formats. Should anything happen to Umenyiora or Justin Tuck, he would once again become a strong option.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka had 1.5 sacks and a forced fumble Sunday at Dallas. He also added five tackles.
Analysis: Kiwanuka remains a No. 1 Fantasy option and should be used in all IDP leagues in Week 16 against Carolina.
News: The Giants DST had four sacks, a forced fumble and a safety Sunday at Dallas. Mathias Kiwanuka had 1.5 sacks, Jay Alford and Renaldo Wynn had a sack each and Justin Tuck had a half-sack. Kiwanuka also forced the fumble. But the Giants allowed 20 points and did little on special teams. Ahmad Bradshaw had four kickoff returns for 48 yards, and R.W. McQuarters had one punt return for 6 yards and one kickoff return for 18 yards. Sinorice Moss also had two kickoff returns for 39 yards.
Analysis: The Giants DST remains a great source of sacks and should play well at home in Week 16 against Carolina. Continue to start the Giants DST as a No. 1 Fantasy option.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka had four tackles and a sack Sunday against Baltimore.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a solid DL in IDP leagues. Consider him a good start in Week 12 at Arizona.
News: Giants FL Mathias Kiwanuka had three solo tackles and two assists in Week 8 at Pittsburgh, including three sacks and a forced fumble.
Analysis: Kiwanuka more than doubled his sack total for the season. He has been useful as a No. 2 DL in IDP formats and his stock certainly could be up after this performance.
News: The New York Daily News reports that Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka's ankle is feeling better after the bye week. He's still not completely free of the pain and swelling, but he said the issue has been reduced to basically "nothing."
Analysis: Kiwanuka has nine tackles and one sack in three games this season, which about his usual pace. He remains a low-end Fantasy DL in IDP leagues.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka, who was listed as probable for Week 3 vs. Cincinnati, was active and able to start. He had returned to a full practice Friday after limited reps the previous two days.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has had a sore ankle since being injured on the last play Week 1, but has yet to miss a game. Kiwanuka had six tackles but no sacks in two games. He is a low-end Fantasy DL until further notice.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 3 vs. Cincinnati. He finally returned to a full practice Friday after limited reps the previous two days.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has had a sore ankle since being injured on the last play Week 1, but has yet to miss a game. Kiwanuka had six tackles but no sacks in two games. He is a low-end Fantasy DL until further notice.
News: Giants DL Mathias Kiwanuka (ankle) was probable for Week 2 at St. Louis. He was active and in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Consider Kiwanuka a No. 2 DL in IDP play when healthy. It does not seem like this injury will be an issue any longer.
News:Mathias Kiwanuka has been asked about the health of his left ankle (it should be fine by kickoff of tomorrow's game in St. Louis) and what he's thinking now that he's back in his natural defensive end spot (he's thrilled) all week. Kiwanuka, though, won't be in a vacuum when he faces the Rams, operating at his own pace and defining his own performance. There will be a 6-foot-7, 325-pound potential future Hall of Famer lining up against him on every snap, meaning Orlando Pace will have a say in how Kiwanuka spends his afternoon. "Big guy," Kiwaunka said of Pace. "Shuts down a lot of people." Pace has been a franchise left tackle for nearly a decade, going to seven consecutive Pro Bowls before a torn triceps muscle cut into his 2006 season and a right shoulder injury limited him to one game last season. The 32-year-old may not be what he once was, but he has chewed up and spit out many anxious defensive ends just like Kiwanuka. "Everybody can be beat, but he plays hard, plays intense and he's got a lot of talent," Kiwanuka said. "If you want to beat him you got to be diligent, you got to come off the ball every play and when he slips up you got to capitalize."
Analysis: This is the first time Kiwanuka will line up opposite Pace, known as "the Big O" and renowned as one of the best pass blockers in recent NFL history. Pace is coming off surgery to repair a torn right rotator cuff and torn labrum, a tough injury for a huge man who must keep rushers at bay with his hands and arms. Kiwanuka, in his first game back at end after moving from strong side linebacker in the wake of Osi Umenyiora's season-ending knee injury, did quite well in last week's 16-7 victory over the Redskins. On the final play, Kiwanuka went down in a heap after Chris Samuels leaped on the back of his left leg. After practicing on a limited basis, Kiwanuka isn't 100 percent, but should be more than ready for this start. Two guys who are great but a little banged up. If you depend on Kiwanuka in IDP leagues, go ahead and keep him active.
News: Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka returned to practice Thursday for the first time since injuring his left ankle on the last play of the season opener against Washington last week. Kiwanuka said he is "doing well" a week after Redskins tackle Chris Samuels fell on the back of his left ankle. "It's probably going to take all the time till the game, but I'll be there and I'll be good," Kiwanuka said in the New York Daily News. "I thought it would come around before now. I think I'll be good stepping out there on Sunday. I got a good day in (Thursday) and I'll be practicing (Friday). I'll have plenty of time to get ready for them."
Analysis: Consider Kiwanuka a No. 2 DL in IDP play for Week 2 against the Rams and expect him to attack Marc Bulger. The Giants DST is a No. 1 option with the Rams looking sluggish against the Eagles in Week 1.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger reports that Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka's left ankle was OK following the Giants' win over the Redskins on Thursday. X-rays were negative, and he was walking OK following the game. He had six total tackles in the game.
Analysis: Kiwanuka should remain a low-end No. 3 Fantasy DL when he plays at St. Louis in Week 2. If his condition worsens, we'll let you know.
News: The only concern for the Giants after a Week 1 16-7 win against the Redskins was that defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka went down with an ankle injury on the final play, but he said after the game that he was OK. He was switched from linebacker to end when Osi Umenyiora was lost for the season with a knee injury in the preseason.
Analysis: Kiwanuka had six tackles, four solo, in the win and the Giants can ill-afford to lose him after he went down with a leg injury in 2007. Kiwanuka is a solid fit at defensive end for the Giants and should develop into a decent pass rusher. Consider him a No. 2 or No. 3 Fantasy DL. It appears as though he will play Week 2 against the Rams.
News: Seconds after sacking a third-string New England Patriots quarterback in the final preseason game, New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka jumped to his feet, shimmied and pounded his chest three or four times with a fist. It was a statement play just a week before the Giants were to kick off the NFL season against the Washington Redskins on Thursday night. Kiwanuka has returned to right end from strongside linebacker in the wake of an injury to Pro Bowl Osi Umenyiora, and he believes the Super Bowl champions are not going to lose anything in the switch. "That was big," Kiwanuka said of the sack. "I wanted to get one early and I knew I had a limited amount of plays so getting one early on was a good confidence booster. It put me in a good situation to get set up for this week."
Analysis: Heading into the season, the play of Kiwanuka at right end might be one of the biggest question marks for the Giants. He started nine games as a rookie at end but he was moved to linebacker last year so the team could get their best 11 defenders on the field. A broken leg in the 10th game ended his season, and that's another question mark. "I was never not a defensive end, I just played linebacker as well," said Kiwanuka, who was drafted out of Boston College in first round in 2006 as a defensive end, a position he had played since he was 7-years-old. "Now I'm getting back into this on the first and second down, and getting the calls and the reads down. To be honest I am so excited about it that I will take any challenge that comes up." Kiwanuka is a solid fit at defensive end for the Giants and should develop into a decent pass rusher. If you can start him as a DL in Fantasy, he's worth taking with a late-round pick.
News: DE Mathias Kiwanuka, who was moved back to defensive end in the wake of the Osi Umenyiora injury, had a sack in limited action in Thursday's preseason finale against the Patriots.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a solid fit at defensive end for the Giants and should develop into a decent pass rusher. If you can start him as a DL in Fantasy, he's worth taking with a late-round pick. Consider Kiwi a reserve DE in Fantasy until he proves himself, though. He should only be starting in deeper formats for Week 1 against the Redskins.
News: The Giants moved Mathias Kiwanuka back to defensive end to replace the injured Osi Umenyiora on Monday, a decision that decreases the already slim chances of the Super Bowl champions needing to make a push to get seven-time Pro Bowler Michael Strahan out of retirement. The Giants' first-round draft pick in 2006, Kiwanuka was moved from defensive end to strongside linebacker last season so the team could get its best 11 defenders on the field. However, he has played almost his whole career as a lineman, including his first season with the Giants and last season on third-down situations before breaking a leg against Detroit in November. "Obviously this is not the way you want it to happen but it's an opportunity for a lot of guys, and I am one of the guys who has to step up and take advantage of it," said Kiwanuka.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a solid fit at defensive end for the Giants and should develop into a decent pass rusher. If you can start him as a DL in Fantasy, he's worth taking with a late-round pick.
News: The Newark Star-Ledger and NFL Network both report that Giants DE Osi Umenyiora will undergo season-ending surgery on his left knee a day after suffering serious ligament damage vs. the Jets, and that he is expected to miss the 2008 season. The paper adds that Umenyiora considered short-term rehab but opted for surgery since that's better for his long-term outlook. It is expected that Mathias Kiwanuka will replace Umenyiora in the starting lineup.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a solid fit at defensive end for the Giants and should develop into a decent pass rusher. If you can start him as a DL in Fantasy, he's worth taking with a late-round pick.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that LB Mathias Kiwanuka (ankle) will not be able to participate in two-a-days until he receives approval from the medical staff.
Analysis: After missing the Giants' Super Bowl run with a broken leg last season, Kiwanuka will be hungry to make an impact on a pretty good defense this fall. He is a decent No. 3 LB in IDP leagues if he can return at full strength.
News: Having also missed the Super Bowl with a broken leg, linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka has a good idea why four-time Pro Bowl tight end Jeremy Shockey became alienated with New York Giants following their run to the NFL title. The pain from the broken bone is bad enough, Kiwanuka said Saturday between practices on the second day of training camp at the University at Albany. There is also the mental pain of missing a sport you love and then a stabbing pain when someone says that if the team won without you, you might not be needed after all.
Analysis: You might not believe it, but this should help Kiwanuka's Fantasy value. The Giants LB is hungry to show them he belongs and he is needed and should bounce back and have an excellent 2008. Kiwanuka is a decent No. 3 LB in IDP leagues if he can return at full strength.
News: On Tuesday, the New York Post reports Giants LB Mathias Kiwanuka spent his morning on the field along with his teammates, admittedly more excited than most of them to merely be out there running around. He missed the last six games of the regular season with a broken left leg and ankle damage that required surgery, meaning he was a very interested bystander for the entire playoff run and Super Bowl glory. Kiwanuka started the first 10 games last season on the strong side and was just beginning to look like a bona fide linebacker when on Nov. 18 his left fibula snapped in Detroit. Kiwanuka said he came through Tuesday's first real test with no residual problems. For now, he remains at linebacker, although that could change if Michael Strahan retires, meaning Kiwanuka could return to defensive end.
Analysis: Kiwanuka is a decent No. 3 LB in IDP leagues if he can return at full strength. He appears to be on pace for a strong recovery, which is a good sign for Fantasy owners.
News: Sitting in front of his locker, Giants linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka put his left leg into a knee-high protective boot and tightened the straps. Instead of talking about facing Jeff Garcia and the Tampa Bay offense on Sunday in an NFC wild-card game, Kiwanuka spoke of next season before heading home on Thursday. Kiwanuka, who had 47 tackles and 4 1/2 sacks in his first season since switching from defensive end to linebacker, doesn't know whether he will be ready for minicamp this spring. He guaranteed he will play next season. Kiwanuka, 24, feels his recovery is progressing, but he can't wait for the day that he can throw away his crutches, get out and run, and even do the little things like carry his groceries up the stairs. "Once I am off the crutches and I can get around on my own, that will be the first milestone," Kiwanuka said, adding that his family has been helping with those little things during the past six weeks.
Analysis: When healthy, Kiwanuka had enough upside to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy LB. We'll keep tabs on his progress through the offseason.
News: The Giants placed LB Mathias Kiwanuka on IR Tuesday, officially ending his season.
Analysis: Reggie Torbor replaced Kiwanuka at the linebacker spot in Week 11, but Coughlin must replace him in third-down dime package where he played tackle, and in some other scenarios where he played a roving pass rusher. Tackle Fred Robbins got most of the work in the dime package Sunday, but Coughlin plans to consider other options to keep the "joker" (roving rusher) active. Regardless, Kiwanuka should be kicked off all seasonal IDP teams.
News: Giants LB Mathias Kiwanuka had surgery to stabilize his leg and ankle on Monday after breaking his leg in the team's Week 11 win at Detroit. Head coach Tom Coughlin said doctors don't think there is enough time for the second-year pro to recover and play again this season.
Analysis: Reggie Torbor replaced Kiwanuka at the linebacker spot, but Coughlin must replace him in third-down dime package where he played tackle, and in some other scenarios where he played a roving pass rusher. Tackle Fred Robbins got most of the work in the dime package Sunday, but Coughlin plans to consider other options to keep the "joker" (roving rusher) active. Regardless, Kiwanuka should be kicked off all seasonal IDP teams.
News: Giants linebacker Mathias Kiwanuka broke his left leg Sunday against the Detroit Lions. X-rays revealed he broke his fibula. Kiwanuka was hurt when teammate Osi Umenyiora rolled into him while making a tackle on the second play of the game. He was helped off the field, keeping his left foot off the ground, and was later taken toward the locker room on a cart. Giants coach Tom Coughlin said Kiwanuka might be out for the season. "It's obviously a big loss for us," Coughlin said.
Analysis: Kiwanuka had been a reason for the Giants defense's rise since Week 2. If he is out for the season, IDP owners will have to look elsewhere for LB help.
News: Mathias Kiwanuka posted three sacks in Week 4 against the Eagles and he totaled five solo tackles and two assists in the win.
Analysis: Kiwanuka normally would have been the story of the game, but he had half of the amount of sacks Osi Umenyiora had. He is a low-end Fantasy option in IDP leagues for Week 5 at N.Y. Jets despite the big game.
News: Giants LB Mathias Kiwanuka looked lost playing linebacker through the first two weeks of the season and that trend carried into the first half Week 3 against the Redskins. So the Giants made a change at halftime. They moved Kiwanuka to defensive tackle and the second-year player out of Boston College exploded. He finished with eight total tackles (seven solo), two sacks and one forced fumble.
Analysis: The Giants finally got wise that Kiwaunka is much better with his hand on the ground and you bet they will find a spot on the defensive line for him after Week 3's breakout performance. He still has a lot of potential as a pass rusher and Fantasy owners should keep an eye on his progress. Consider him a low-end Fantasy DL heading into Week 4 against the Eagles.
News: The New York Post reports that Giants DL Adrian Awasom was placed on Injured Reserve with a fractured traverse process in his neck. With this move, the Giants may be forced to move OLB Mathias Kiwanuka back to his natural spot of DE.
Analysis: Kiwanuka may be better off as a defensive end for the Giants, but Fantasy owners will struggle starting Kiwanuka as a linebacker while he plays at end. If this comes to fruition, expect Kiwanuka to be a low-end reserve in all IDP leagues so long as he is only eligible as a linebacker.
News: According to the Newark Star-Ledger, if DL Osi Umenyiora' injury turns out to be a long-term thing, coach Tom Coughlin said there is a possibility that LB Mathias Kiwanuka could move back to end. "There'll be more discussions in the next day or so," Coughlin said about a potential move for Kiwanuka. "We need to get a handle on where Osi is." Kiwanuka, who was taken in the first round of the 2006 draft as a DE out of Boston College (he played the position in all 16 games last season, and started nine), was switched to OLB this season.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was a stellar DE in college and was only moved to LB so that he and Umenyiora could be on the field at the same time. Considering how poorly he played in his early attempts at LB, this move could be a big confidence boost for Kiwanuka. The Giants DST take on a weak Packers offense in Week 2, however Kiwanuka is still listed as an LB, so don't drop any of the DE's on your roster to make room for him just yet.
News: In his last meeting with Dallas, Giants LB Mathias Kiwanuka had a sack, forced fumble and interception. He was a DE then, so let's see how he does at LB.
Analysis: Consider Kiwanuka a low-end LB in IDP leagues. He has potential, but give him time to develop at his new spot.
News: Michael Strahan missed the New York Giants' preseason opener and so did the rest of the defense. Strahan had an excuse. The seven-time Pro Bowl defensive end is holding out while he decides whether to retire. The rest of New York's defenders played like they had retired in their first game under new coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. They missed tackles, overran plays, struggled against the run and made mistakes that led to big plays in a 24-21 loss to the Carolina Panthers on Saturday night. The big experiment with Mathias Kiwanuka was also a dud. The second-year pro, who was moved from defensive end to linebacker so he could get on the field and make plays, was somewhat invisible playing less than a half. He looked lost at times, making three tackles.
Analysis: Giants head coach Tom Coughlin was satisfied that Kiwanuka got a chance to learn in the game. "If you are looking for a definition of why you play these preseason games it's the opportunity for Kiwanuka to be in the position he was in (Saturday)," Coughlin said. "The different things they were throwing at him and the experience he got and will get by looking at this tape, that's one of the good things about preseason." The transistion wasn't going to be easy, let's hope his struggles don't carry into the season. Consider him a reserve Fantasy LB for the upcoming season at this time. Even if he moves back to DE, he can still be a viable Fantasy IDP option since he was a sack specialist at Boston College.
News: Mathias Kiwanuka is enjoying football again. Even being called a linebacker doesn't sound so strange any more. The transition from defensive end to linebacker has been completed in a little more than three months, with the debut scheduled for Saturday night when the New York Giants play host to the Carolina Panthers. "The more comfortable I get, the more I like playing it," Kiwanuka said Wednesday between training camp practices at the University at Albany. "It's starting to be fun again. I'm not learning as much. I still have a long way to go, but I am out there having fun again."
Analysis: During his rookie season, Kiwanuka started nine games, had 55 total tackles, four sacks and two forced fumbles. Everyone still remembers the play he didn't make, letting Tennessee quarterback Vince Young go on what would have been a game-clinching sack against the Titans because he was worried about getting a roughing penalty. With Michael Strahan's holdout now in its 13th day, there is the possibility that Kiwanuka might be moved back to defensive end if Strahan decides to retire after 14 seasons. Consider him a reserve Fantasy LB for the upcoming season at this time. Even if he moves back to DE, he can still be a viable Fantasy IDP option since he was a sack specialist at Boston College.
News: For the past seven months, the Giants planned on having Michael Strahan, the NFL's active leader in sacks (132 1/2), line up at left end. They even moved second-year pro Mathias Kiwanuka from defensive end to strongside linebacker in April to get both of them on the field. A day into training camp, they are considering other options since Strahan was a no-show Saturday. For now, Kiwanuka is still a linebacker. William Joseph, the 2003 first-round draft pick who has never lived up to expectations, is starting for Strahan. Kiwanuka believed Strahan didn't think about retiring until recently. "If Michael comes back, it will be a tremendous help to this team," Kiwanuka said. "If he doesn't, we still have talent to go ahead and be strong."
Analysis: Moving back to defensive end would not be a problem, Kiwanuka said, adding he has to know where the defensive ends are going on every play. Kiwanuka's production should rise as an OLB, and he may come up with a few more passes defensed and other defensive stats -- especially tackles. Consider him a reserve Fantasy LB for the upcoming season at this time. Even if he moves back to DE, he can still be a viable Fantasy IDP option since he was a sack specialist at Boston College.
News: Mathias Kiwanuka is changing positions and moving into the Giants' starting lineup at linebacker. The Giants No. 1 draft pick in 2006 will move from defensive end to strongside linebacker next season. "There is no question that he can make the transition to outside linebacker, that he can play SAM linebacker," GM Jerry Reese said, noting that the 6-foot-5, 265-pound Kiwanuka is athletic and dropped into some zone pass coverages last season while playing end.
Analysis: Kiwanuka's production should rise as an OLB, and he may come up with a few more passes defensed and other defensive stats -- especially tackles. Consider him a reserve Fantasy LB for the upcoming season.
News: Despite playing without three injured defensive starters and losing another early, the Giants held Tampa Bay to 174 total yards and set up a score with a turnover deep in Buccaneers territory in a 17-3 victory in Week 8. While it might be considered poor play by a Bucs' offense that was 2-for-16 on third-down chances, the Giants defense stepped up in a game in which it was missing All-Pro defensive end Osi Umenyiora (hip), strongside linebacker LaVar Arrington (season-ending Achilles' injury) and starting cornerback Sam Madison (hamstring).
Analysis: Rookie Mathias Kiwanuka, veteran Carlos Emmons and R.W. McQuarters replaced them, respectively. Rookie Gerris Wilkinson also had to play after weakside linebacker Brandon Short left with a quadriceps injury. The group was outstanding on a blustery afternoon when the winds whipped across Giants Stadium, gusting from 24 mph to 41 mph and Kiwanuka got his first NFL sack. Consider the Giants a great start in Week 9 vs. Houston.
News: Giants DL Osi Umenyiora (hip) was among the inactives for Week 8 vs. Tampa Bay. Rookie DL Mathias Kiwanuka got the start in his place. DB Sam Madison was also inactive. R.W. McQuarters got the start in his place at the right CB position.
Analysis: When healthy, Umenyiora is among the best DL in the NFL. Monitor his status leading up to Week 9 vs. Houston. Kiwanuka is a decent replacement option in deeper leagues. Despite the loss of Madison and Umenyiora, the Giants DST remains a very good Fantasy start in leagues of 12 or more teams.
News: Rookie DE Mathias Kiwanuka, the team's first round selection, has shown quickness and aggression in his two games and leads the team with 2.5 sacks. "He's quick, and when he plays he doesn't stand as tall as he does in practice," noted a scout. "He was too high when I saw him in (rookie tryouts) in Indianapolis, but he almost looks like a different player now."
Analysis: Kiwanuka was an All-American defensive end at Boston College and he's expected to learn the professional ways under the tutelage of Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora. Grab him in rookie drafts around the late-second or early-third rounds.
News: The team's official website reports former Boston College standout DE Mathias Kiwanuka was impressive in Friday's preseason debut at Baltimore. He managed to tally 1.5 sacks and he was also credited with a pair of quarterback hurries.
Analysis: Kiwanuka was a stud in college, but the game is a lot faster at this level. He will be a part of the Giants' pass rush rotation, but at least for 2006 will not be a huge statistical contributor. Owners in IDP leagues should ignore Kiwanuka for now unless in a dynasty league where Kiwanuka could be had for a middle- to late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: First-round draft pick Mathias Kiwanuka reached an agreement on a five-year, nearly $7 million contract with the Giants. Kiwanuka will earn nearly $5 million in guaranteed money under terms of the deal. The Boston College defensive end had 32 1/2 sacks in his final three seasons. He will have to compete for playing time with Pro Bowl defensive ends Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora and highly regarded second-year player Justin Tuck.
Analysis: Kiwanuka will definitely be a part of the Giants' pass rush rotation, but at least for 2006 will not be a huge statistical contributor. Owners in IDP leagues should ignore Kiwanuka for now unless in a dynasty league where Kiwanuka could be had for a middle- to late-round pick in rookie-only drafts.
News: The New York Giants selected Boston College DE Mathias Kiwanuka with the 32rd overall selection in the 2006 NFL Draft. The move is odd since the team has stud DEs Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora.
Analysis: Kiwanuka has a ton of long-term potential, but he won't do much behind Strahan and Umenyiora. The Giants defense is worth a late-round selection in all seasonal formats.
