If the New York Giants are keen on taking an offensive lineman, who should be atop their board?
There is no question that the New York Giants are in need of a new offensive tackle to bolster Daniel Jones’ protection scheme. Nate Solder cannot be relied on after two less than adequate seasons in blue, and the position battle between Cam Fleming and Nick Gate doesn’t exactly scream efficiency. While Dave Gettleman might have faith in Gates, he has a minimal sample size of snaps at right tackle, failing to represent a confidence-brewing starter.
Realistically, the Giants can use the fourth overall pack or trade back and gain more draft capital with the sole purpose of drafting an offensive tackle. The top four prospects are Tristan Wirfs, Jedrick Wills, Mekhi Becton, and Andrew Thomas.
All four have positive and negative attributes, but some fit better into the Giants’ offensive scheme than others.
To start, Wirfs has been linked to the Giants and is high on Gettleman’s list. His experience playing both left and right tackle makes him more appealing, but he is somewhat raw and needs a bit more development and coaching to reach his full potential. He would be a quality selection if the Giants are high on him.
However, Will’s is the most refined tackle in the draft, but he has very little experience at left tackle, and spending the fourth overall pick on a right tackle might not be the best usage of resources.
Becton is a massive human being at 6-foot-7 and 364 pounds. He has the highest ceiling of the group, considering his frame and rare mobility. Then you have Andrew Thomas, who is a bit undersized for a tackle but is the cleanest left tackle prospect in the draft. He will be a plug and play and likely solidify the position for years to come, but he doesn’t have the versatility to move over to the right side if need be in his rookie season. That is ultimately why Wirfs ranks atop the list for Gettleman Co.
So who is the best option for the Giants?
Personally, I would only draft a tackle if it is in a trade back scenario. That is how you can gain the most resources and solidify a position of absolute need. I believe Mekhi Becton is the best player for the Giants, simply because Nate Solder is capable of playing right tackle and is open to the idea of switching sides.
With Solder on the right side and Becton solidifying the left, the Giants now have a rebuilt offense of line with more potential in 2020. Protecting their investments in Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley is essential, and this action reinforces that logic.
Why do I like Becton?Â
Simply, there are not many people on this earth as athletic as the Lousiville product. His size and agility make him impactful, and his potential is so high you can’t pass on him without wondering, “what if.” I do really like Andrew Thomas as a solidified left tackle, but his ceiling is a fraction of what Becton’s represents.