New York Giants mock draft: Passing on WR in round one

Jonathan Mingo, WR, Ole Miss

The New York Giants need a playmaker at the wide receiver position. With the fifth-round pick of the 2023 NFL Draft, they should target Ole Miss senior receiver Jonathan Mingo. Mingo’s ability to make plays after the catch and his big body makes him an ideal fit for the Giants’ offense.

Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 225 pounds, Mingo has a muscular upper body and a dense lower half that helps him become an effective receiver. His physical presence makes him a tough tackle for defensive backs, and he has consistently shown the ability to gain yards after the catch. The Giants need a receiver who can make plays in space, and Mingo’s YAC ability could be a game-changer for their offense.

Mingo has also shown the ability to play through press coverage and quickly get into his routes. Once he has the ball in his hands, his strength and physicality make him difficult to tackle. Mingo’s ability to make contested catches is also a plus, although he needs to work on going up and catching the ball at the highest point, which would make it harder for defensive backs to make a play on the ball.

One of the biggest reasons the Giants should target Mingo is his size. With Darren Waller as the team’s top tight end, the Giants need a big-bodied receiver who can step in if Waller were to get injured. Mingo’s frame makes him an ideal candidate for this role, and his experience as a YAC receiver could also make him a valuable contributor on special teams.

Of course, there are areas where Mingo needs to improve. He lacks true down-the-field speed, which could limit his effectiveness as a deep threat. His route-running could also use some work, but this is something that can be developed with the right coaching.