By Shaun Morash - InReeseWeTrust.com 4/12/11
In the midst of talk of labor negotiations, lockouts, and court rooms there is some excitement being generated for NFL fans as the days of April pass. That excitement is the NFL Draft. The draft is 3 days of a new, fresh feeling for fans of all 32 teams, wondering if the player chosen will be the one who helps to get their team over the hump, and into the podium hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in early February.
The New York Giants and their fans should feel no different. With an elite quarter back in Eli Manning, paired with one of the best receiving corps in the league, as well as a solid secondary, and possibly the best pass rushing unit in the league, the G-Men are so close to putting themselves back into the playoff mix, and even the big game.
The consensus amongst most fans is the early, and obvious position of need, a play making linebacker. However with the first round studs at that position being the likes of Von Miller, whom seems to be a top 5 pick, and Akeem Ayers who appears as if his best fit will be in a 3-4 system, the Giants may not be able to find that kind of impact need at linebacker in round 1. The next position on their wish list? Offensive line. The Giants seem to be after Florida Center Mike Pouncey. Rich Seubert is coming off a dislocated knee cap in last year’s season finale and Shaun O’Hara struggled to stay on the field and missed the majority of last season. The Giants could draft a stud like Pouncey and have the luxury of having him groomed by like the likes of O’Hara before he has to step in and play every week. Many first round offensive linemen have to step and start right away for a need, Pouncey likely wouldn’t have to do that with Big Blue. Down the line that could be the best thing for this team.
If Pouncey is gone at pick 19 and Jerry Reese and company don’t love another offensive linemen at that pick, this team could make an interesting change. They could go after a big running back such as Mark Ingram. Ahmad Bradshaw is a free agent, if and when free agency can begin there is no telling what kind of contract he could get on the open market, and if the Giants need to open up the wallets to keep him, they could turn around and cut Brandon Jacobs. Running back could be a position that may be completely different on the roster then it was a year ago. A durable strong Ingram at pick 19 could do wonders for the Giants offense.
After round 1, the Giants will draft for depth and other needs the rest of the way. The team also has 3 6th round picks. They could find some depth at cornerback that should be needed, as well as tight end. Tight end is a key position for the Giants. When Kevin Boss was nicked up last season they only had Travis Beckham to turn to. Beckham’s blocking could be rated at a level even less that sub par. Bear Pascoe is still on the roster and was transformed to full back last year, and it is uncertain where he will be on the depth charts when camp opens. The team could also add another offensive linemen late, and anyone who can get down the field on kickoff coverage and make a play. Get the big blue jerseys and hats on, draft weekend is almost here, and its something to look forward to during this dark NFL situation.
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