The New York Giants are in dire need of a right tackle to replace Chad Wheeler, who graded out as the No.78 tackle, according to PFF. Finding a way to bolster the right side of the line will be a priority for the Giants this offseason, especially after they addressed the left side so effectively last year.
If GM Dave Gettleman can appropriate valuable resources to solidify the line, veteran quarterback Eli Manning might finally have enough time to make the plays he’s capable of making. Manning is one of the more immobile quarterbacks in the league, so having a quality offensive line is essential.
The New York Giants should consider this right tackle in the 2019Â NFL draft:
Oklahoma right tackle Cody Ford should be a main target for the Giants in the second-round. He was the starting right tackle for the Sooners last season, but some analysts project him as a guard at the next level. I believe he’s a perfect fit for the edge at 6-foot-5, 335-pounds.
He’s a thick blocker with the power and bulk to hold down the edge at the professional level. Being on Manning’s visible side will give him an advantage as a rookie – taking the pressure off of being the blind-side blocker.
Ford is a stellar athlete for his size, as he’s quick and light on his feet. The Sooner could see his stock rise as the draft gets closer, but at this point, he seems to have another potential steal in the top of the second-round.
Pass protection:
In the passing game, Ford has great balance and agility off the line. He’s very fast out of his stance and can engage well on fast edge rushers. Bull rushes simply can’t move this behemoth of a man, so spin-moves and speed will have to suffice – luckily for Ford he can match anything you throw at him.
His footwork can be a bit sloppy at times and gets tangles, but with a bit of refinement, he can emerge as a top tackle coming out of the draft.
Run game:
Ford is a consistent blocker in the run game, especially coming out of a dynamic Oklahoma offense. Ford is extremely smart and has the ability to understand his assignment and get there on time. At times he can lag behind and struggle out of his stance, but his issues are mainly technical and not physical, which is a great thing. He would be a nice gift for Saquon Barkley on outside pitches.