When the New York Giants originally drafted Kadarius Toney with the 28th overall pick in the 2021 NFL draft, they viewed him as an electrifying playmaker with elite stop-and-go abilities.
Toney showed off those attributes throughout the 2021 season, enjoying a phenomenal performance against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5. He recorded 189 receiving yards with 18.9 yards per reception. While he failed to convert any of his receptions for a touchdown, he put multiple defensive stars on blast with his ankle-breaking shiftiness and agility.
However, Toney showed a bit of immaturity, throwing a punch at a Dallas defender late in the game, with the Giants losing by a few scores. That small red flag has sparked a debate regarding Toney’s immaturity, and the fact he hasn’t shown up to voluntary workouts this off-season is another sign that the Giants may have their work cut out for them.
It is fair to mention that voluntary training is just that, voluntary. Nothing in Toney’s contract stipulates he shows up to these practices, but it is a sign of goodwill for new head coach Brian Daboll and general manager Joe Schoen.
Many will likely be concerned about his absence, but who’s to say that Daboll isn’t communicating with Toney via video chat or text? It is possible that Toney is dealing with something serious regarding a family member or a problem in his personal life. Since we don’t know the full story, it is fair to keep assumptions to a minimum until proven otherwise.
Reports have indicated the New York Giants are intrigued by Mississippi State tackle Charles Cross:
According to Matt Miller of ESPN, the Giants are in “love” with Cross, who is considered the best pass protector in the entire draft class. The stand-out tackle earned an 86.7 overall grade, per PFF. Featured in 919 snaps last season, including 719 pass-blocking snaps and 200 run-blocking snaps. Cross is known for his pass protection but could be a liability as a run-blocking right tackle early in his career.
Last season, Cross gave up two sacks and 14 hurries but didn’t allow a quarterback hit, showcasing his quality. There is cause for concern, given he doesn’t have any experience at right tackle, but Giants OL Coach Bobby Johnson worked him out at RT during his Pro Day and came away impressed.
Realistically, the Giants would be happy to walk away with any of the top three offensive tackles in the 2022 draft class, but if they want to go with a pure pass protector who can upgrade that category immodestly at RT, Cross is undoubtedly a great prospect to target.