The New York Giants can’t afford to pass on offensive line talent in the first round this year, even if it means landing the third-best option with the 5th or 7th overall selection. One way or another, the Giants need an upgrade at right tackle and have voids at both guards spots and center.
With that being the case, either Ikem Ekwonu or Charles Cross should be high on the priority list for new general manager Joe Schoen, who has already pointed out the need for talent in the trenches.
NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah put together a mock draft this week, completely passing on OL talent and going after a pass rusher and wide receiver, a strange turn of events.
Daniel Jeremiah Mock Draft 2.0 (link):
5th overall: Travon Walker, EDGE, Georgia
Walker is a unique talent because of his size, athleticism and versatility. The Giants need more playmakers on defense.
There is no question that Travon Walker is a solid player at 6’5″ and 275 pounds. He’s capable of playing inside and on the edge, using his rare athleticism and power to provide a pass rush. With long arms and quality speed, he could be a fantastic selection in the 1st round, but Jeremiah has the Giants passing on Kayvon Thibodeaux, who falls all the way to the 8th pick by the Atlanta Falcons.
Walker finished the 2021 season with 6.0 sacks, 7.5 tackles for a loss, and 33 tackles in total. Looking purely at statistics, Florida State pass rusher Jermaine Johnson might be a more productive player as a rookie.
7th overall: Drake London, WR, USC
The Giants seem very committed to giving Daniel Jones a fair evaluation in 2022. London has inside/outside versatility and he’ll be a monster in the red zone.