With the 2020 NFL Draft creeping up on us, the New York Giants have already begun their player evaluations and breakdowns of their most pressing needs. Aside from the defensive holes they must fill this offseason, the offensive line remains a problematic unit, lead by the overpaid Nate Solder at left tackle.
Solder had a lackluster 2019 campaign, and it might have cost him his spot on the line. However, his contract indicates that he will remain with the Giants next season ($19.5 million cap hit, $13 million dead cap hit if cut). Retaining him seems like the only logical decision, but the Giants could elect to swap him over to right tackle, where they can draft a young player to fill the void on the left side.
Here are two offensive tackles the New York Giants should look at:
1.) Mekhi Becton
Coming in at 6-foot-7, 369 pounds is Louisville slugger, Mekhi Becton. The Junior tackle is rated as one of the best options available in the upcoming draft, thanks to his incredible size and mobility.
Becton’s stock has continued to rise, especially after NFL.com analyst, Daniel Jeremiah, mocked him to the Giants with the 4th overall pick. Most didn’t consider him a 4th overall talent, but his ceiling justifies the logic.
The reality is, the Giants are keen on upgrading their run-game, and it starts with the offensive line. Saquon Barkley is one of the most versatile backs in the NFL, and giving him a solid front-five to block must be a priority. If GM Dave Gettleman is ready to take his own advice, we should expect some significant changes on the line this offseason.
Becton fits the “hog molly” role perfectly, displaying incredible power and mobility for his size. Moving defenders out of his way and pushing them into oblivion is his trademark, but he also has a solid base and anchors well in pass protection.
2.) Trey Adams
While Adams doesn’t have the 369-pound frame Becton possesses, he’s an athletic tackle that excels in run-blocking. While his pass-blocking could use some work, his ability to get to the second level and move linebackers out of the way is a trait that would improve the run-game for the Giants.
Adams’s injury history is his biggest turnoff. Suffering a torn ACL in 2017 and sitting out most of 2018 with a back injury have hurt his development, but he made it through 2019 completely healthy, which is a good sign as he enters the NFL Draft. When healthy, Adams is a top-flight tackle prospect, and one the Giants could probably land in the second round. Keep an eye on him as the draft nears.