New York Giants: 3 Offensive linemen to consider in 2019 NFL Draft

(Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images)
(Photo by Loren Orr/Getty Images) /
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The New York Giants could certainly use some upgrading along their offensive line in 2019. Here are three players they should consider selecting in the upcoming NFL Draft.

By every measure, the offensive line of the 2018 New York Giants was a disappointment. Left tackle Nate Solder, their big free agent acquisition, struggled for much of the season. So did rookie left guard Will Hernandez, although he showed improvement in the second half. Big Blue can certainly use some upgrades along the line with the 2019 NFL Draft coming up in late April.

Let’s take a look at three players the G-Men should consider selecting. I fully expect the Giants to draft a quarterback in the first round (number six overall). That signal-caller will probably be Ohio State’s Dwayne Haskins, as I profiled here recently.

With that being said, here are a trio of offensive line prospects that general manager Dave Gettleman should keep in mind during the draft and the projected round they’ll come off the board.

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Andre Dillard, Washington State (OT)

The 6-5, 310-pounder was a first-team All-Pac-12 performer for Washington State in 2018. His father, Mitch, also was an offensive linemen for the Cougars from 1983-86. Dillard played mostly at left tackle the last two years so he may have to slide inside or commence his NFL career as Solder’s backup.

The Woodinville, WA native was in a pass-happy offense for the most part during his four-year college career, so his forte is pass blocking. He’s a good enough athlete to adapt to the power running game but he’ll need more experience blocking at the point of attack moving forward.

Dillard is known as an excellent pass protector with long arms and good lateral mobility. He uses his hands well and stands up well against bull rushes. He may not start in the league right away – he needs to develop his run blocking skills — but he is a superior athlete that will provide quality depth to any squad. He may be a year away from starting though. Projected Round: 2-3

Elgton Jenkin, Mississippi State (C)

The Mississippi State standout has superior size for a center (6-4, 313 pounds) and would provide solid depth behind Spencer Pulley and John Greco. He’s not the most athletic center but Jenkins uses his hands well and has fine balance. He needs work in pass protection, but is considered to be smart and the leader of the Bulldogs offensive line.

Jenkins is not an instant starter in the NFL because he needs to continue his overall development, but his potential is high. Projected Round: 3-4

Isaiah Prince, Ohio State (OT)

The 6-7, 310-pounder played right tackle for the most part during his four seasons at Ohio State and earned First team All-Big Ten honors last year. Prince has excellent size and arm length but he needs development in the run game and with pass protection.

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He needs to get stronger and become more aggressive. The former Buckeye tends to be more of a finesse blocker. Prince is raw, but his upside his lofty and he would give Big Blue some quality depth behind Chad Wheeler. He’s worth a pick on day three of the NFL Draft. Projected Round: 4-5