5. New York Giants: Kayvon Thibodeaux, EDGE, Oregon
Even with the questions, we all know Kayvon Thibodeaux isn’t going to slide very far at all. He’s simply too talented not to get drafted early and the New York Giants, who have needed a star edge rusher for a few years now, would be more than happy to draft him at No. 5 with the first of their two picks in Round 1.
Thibodeaux is by far the most physically gifted defensive end in this class but we don’t know if he did enough in team interviews to prove he loves the game enough to turn that into greatness. Some can shrug off the questions but those usually don’t come from thin air — as they say, where’s there’s smoke, there’s always fire. Still, he’s too good not to take here as the Giants fill a massive need.
6. Carolina Panthers: Evan Neal, OT, Alabama
With Ikem Ekwonu taking the top spot, Alabama’s Evan Neal slides to No. 6 but finds a soft landing spot as the Carolina Panthers add him with their first pick. The jury is still out on who will be their starting quarterback but this move at least ensures they will have a much better offensive line.
Neal is 6-foot-7 and a 1/2 and weighs 337-pounds and moves like a man much lighter. He won’t get bullied and can handle the speed rush, making him an instant starter and impact player.