There was much optimism for success as the New York Giants had the fifth and seventh picks in the first round. With those premier selections, the Giants splurged on edge Kayvon Thibodeaux and offensive tackle Evan Neal. When the second round came about, the Giants traded back twice, resulting in the 43rd overall pick. The remaining segment of the draft ran smoothly and efficiently. New York handpicked based on their criteria, which seems to please the Big Blue management.
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Best Pick: Evan Neal (Round 1, Pick 7)
There may be a case for Thibodeaux to be the headline of the Giants draft. However, just two picks thereafter lurks the silhouette of Neal. A 6’7″ tackle out of the University of Alabama, Neal will improve a feeble offensive line which has tumbled in recent years. His size may be deceiving, as Neal can cover ground rather quickly while preserving a stronghold on his opponent. All the more so, weighing in at 337 pounds, he also provides the tools and fundamentals a lineman must possess in order to compete at the next level.
Grade: A
For more on Neal, check out our scouting report on him.
Worst Pick: Wan’Dale Robinson (Round 2, Pick 43)
Many were perplexed by the early decisions of the Giants’ staff. With the 43rd overall pick, the Giants selected Robinson, a former Kentucky Wildcat whose draft stock forecasted a third- or fourth-round pick. However, New York was hooked on the 5’8″ wideout and wasted no time before selecting Robinson as the newest member of the Big Blue. On the bright side, while Robinson lacks in size, he depicts a well-rounded route runner, implemented mostly by his long haul speed.
Grade: C+
For more on Robinson, check out our scouting report on him.
Sleeper Pick: Micah McFadden (Round 5, Pick 146)
The selections of Thibodeaux and Neal are unyielding. However, the triumph of the draft resides amidst the shadows in McFadden. A fifth-round virtue from the University of Indiana, the Giants have splurged on a phenomenon. With a 6’1″ frame weighing 240 pounds, McFadden understands the run game fairly well which factors with his tackling ability. Nonetheless, he will enroll in a formidable defensive line, adjacent to Azeez Ojulari and his peers.
Grade: B+
For more on McFadden, check out our scouting report on him.
Summary
In spite of recent misfires in the NFL Draft, it seems that the Giants may have found their new recipe for success. From Thibodeaux and Neal in the early stages of the draft to a late prized selection embodied by McFadden, they were guided by the recently affixed general manager Joe Schoen. New York displayed their urgency for a revamped roster.
Grade: B+
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