The Giants (along with all the NFC East teams) are weird in that they always look pretty good on paper but then will have a few games a season that leaves their fans scratching their heads in confusion. They’re a team that generally has no blatant needs but always has a few positions that could use upgrades and strengthening. This year, those positions are in their defensive secondary, offensive line (including tight end) and linebacker spots. Look for the Giants to address these needs in this year’s NFL draft.
January 01, 2013; Orlando, FL, USA; Nebraska Cornhuskers quarterback Taylor Martinez (3) is sacked by Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Alec Ogletree (9) during the second half of the Capital One bowl at The Citrus Bowl. Georgia defeated Nebraska 45-31. Mandatory Credit: Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports
Round 1 – Alec Ogletree, MLB, Georgia – After releasing the decent Chase Blackburn, look for the Giants to fill the ILB (which has been a weak spot in their defense since Antonio Pierce left) in a big way. Alec Ogletree is by far the best inside linebacker in the draft this year and may also be the best player overall on the board by the time the Giants make their pick. He played safety in his freshman year at Georgia which translates to a lightning fast inside linebacker. As long as he can focus, stay out of trouble and stay on the field, he’s a steal for the G-Men. If he’s not available, look for the Giants to look at Notre Dame TE, Tyler Eiffert to fill in for vacant Martellus Bennett
Feb 25, 2013; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State Tigers defensive back Eric Reid catches a pass during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Round 2 – Eric Reid, FS, LSU – A standout safety originally thought to be a first round pick. The Giants lost Kenny Phillips in free agency and the best player on the board in round 2 will likely be a safety, WR or HB and the Giants are pretty set with Cruz, Nicks, Brown and Wilson. The only reason a player like Reid would fall to the Giants here is because of the depth at safety this year not only in the draft, but also free agency. The Giants had very bad luck with the last LSU standout safety they drafted, but my gut tells me Eric Reid’s career will have a considerably happier ending.
Jan 19, 2013; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide Coach Nick Saban hand the crystal ball to center Barrett Jones during the National Championship celebration outside Bryant Denny Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports
Late Round Sleeper Pick – Barrett Jones, G/C, Alabama – The Giants bolster their line by adding maybe the most versatile offensive lineman in the draft, Barrett Jones. Jones has had experience playing and doing well at the center, guard and even left tackle spots on the Crimson Tide offensive line. The Giants need to upgrade and get a younger offensive line on all fronts, what better way to start than with a player who could move around and play any spot on it?