The New York Giants are in need of offensive playmakers. Heading into this offseason, New York is making it a priority to add offensive weapons. Many fans and analysts predict that the Giants will spend their first-round pick on a wide receiver.
One intriguing and lesser-discussed option for the Giants is to trade down in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Currently, the Giants own the eleventh overall pick in the draft. But a trade down from eleven could yield additional mid-round picks for the Giants to spend in the draft.
There is a scenario where the Giants could trade down and still land their offensive weapon that they so desire. If Dave Gettleman does decide to do what he has never done before (trading down), Rashod Bateman is an intriguing option for him to consider in the second half of the first round.
Rashod Bateman stats and highlights
Rashod Bateman is an intriguing wide receiver prospect out of Minnesota that will likely be drafted in the second half of the first round. If the Giants decide to trade down to a spot within the twenties, they could consider drafting Rashod Bateman.
One New York Giants mock trade scenario:
- Giants trade pick #11 to the Chicago Bears
- Giants receive:
- Round one, pick #20
- Round three, pick #83
- Round five, pick #163
In this scenario, or a scenario similar to this, the Giants could spend the twentieth overall pick on Rashod Bateman. Minnesota’s Rashod Bateman is a big-play threat that could on up the Giants’ vertical passing attack. According to Pro Football Focus, Bateman has recorded 47 receptions of 15+ yards over the last two seasons.
Rashod Bateman is a crisp route runner that has drawn comparisons to Los Angeles Chargers superstar Keenan Allen. Bateman posted 147 receptions and 2395 receiving yards with 19 touchdowns through 31 career games in college.
Minnesota's Rashod Bateman (6-2, 210) is an advanced route-runner with strong hands in open and contested-catch situations.
He’s not a rare athlete, but he still creates separation quickly at and away from the LOS — very smart football player and likely top-50 pick. pic.twitter.com/lInR8uwWhp
— Austin Gayle (@austingayle_) January 8, 2021
One knock on Rashod Bateman, though, is his inconsistent hands. Bateman has had a slight issue with drops in college, posting a 7.7% drop rate in his collegiate career. Bateman is also not a burner, lacking top-end speed in his athletic package.
Rashod Bateman would be a great target for the Giants if they were to trade down in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Bateman has the skillset to become a primary wide receiver in the NFL, something New York desperately needs. Based on history, it is unlikely that Dave Gettleman and the Giants trade down. But if they do, Bateman should be a top target.