A Christmas wish list for New York Giants fans

2. A good draft

Apr 25, 2013; New York, NY, USA; New York Giants fans react as the team selects offensive tackle

(Syracuse, not pictured) as the nineteenth overall pick of the 2013 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

During Jerry Reese‘s time as the Giants general manager, he’s had some hits and some misses. 2007 was his first year as general manager, and it was widely regarded as one of the best drafts in Giants history. With rookies like Steve Smith, Ahmad Bradshaw and others playing intricate roles in the Giants’ Super Bowl run, things looked good for the future.

However, since then, Reese and the front office have failed to find similar success.

The Giants only have six players left on the roster from the 2008-2011 drafts, and only one player drafted during that time period was named to a Pro Bowl. 2012’s draft was especially disappointing. David Wilson, Rueben Randle, Jayron Hosley, Adrien Robinson, Brandon Mosley, Matt McCants and Markus Kuhn make up the underwhelming bunch. Excluding Randle, who has become a starter, the group only has 19 starts combined, per Pro Football Focus.

Lately, the Giants have gotten back on track, as 2013’s and 2014’s draft have been very solid. The Giants’ first three picks are all starters, although tackle Justin Pugh has regressed. Damontre Moore and Jonathan Hankins are becoming solid players on the defensive line, though.

You could make the argument that this year’s rookie class is better than 2007’s, but nobody really cares considering the Giants are 5-9. Odell Beckham, Weston Richburg, Andre Williams and Devon Kennard have all started and made big contributions to the team. Odell Beckham won Rookie of the Month for the month of November, and Kennard was named NFC Defensive Player of the Week after his outing against Tennessee.

Hopefully the Giants can continue the momentum and compile another good draft class. Although it’s hard to tell what their place in the draft will be, they will likely have a good pick. Also keep in mind that a defensive scheme switch would contribute in a draft pick. For instance: if the Giants lose out and have a chance at either Nebraska defensive end Randy Gregory or Clemson outside linebacker Vic Beasly, their choice would depend on what scheme they’re in. An offensive lineman would be beneficial as well.

Here’s something to ponder: in 2004 when the Giants were coming off a deplorable season, they decided to make a big move as they traded for Eli Manning. Also remember, the Giants have always been known for drafting based on talent instead of need. So if Marcus Mariota is still on the board, who knows? Would I be surprised if the Giants took Mariota? Well, I’ll put it like this: If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised.

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