:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/30226357/464094111.0.jpg)
The New York Giants have been active in free agency. But, one of the most glaring omissions in their additions is new receiving threats for Eli Manning. With the departure of Hakeem Nicks finds his armory getting light in the weapons department.
Luckily, the 2014 draft might be the best one ever for receiver-needy teams. This draft has potential superstars at the top as well as a ton of depth that would be legitimate 1st rounders most other years.
Let's plunge into the depths of this receiver class once more and take a look at one of the best and quietest prospects: Vanderbilt's Jordan Matthews
Pros
- Good size at 6-foot-3, 212 pounds
- Long arms, with truly massive hands (10 3/8 inches)
- Smooth athlete but sudden in and out of breaks
- Strong leaping ability to high-point the ball
- Physical and intense player who does the little things
- Most productive pass catcher in SEC history
Cons
- A bit on the slight side. Could use another 10 pounds.
- Adequate but not elite long speed
- Occasionally suffers from lapses in concentration
Does He Fit With The Giants?
In a word: Yep
He has the size, he has the production, he has all the skills to succeed in the NFL. He reminds me of some sort of mutant combination of Rueben Randle and Hakeem Nicks. Matthews has the same build as Randle and the same smooth game... Until it's time to get violent, then he plays a lot like Hakeem Nicks.
Also, he could probably use any gloves that they ordered for Nicks but he never got around to using. Their hands are basically the same size (10 3/8 inches for Matthews, 10 1/2 inches for Nicks... are we really going to quibble over 1/8?)
Prospect Video
Jordan Matthews vs Ole Miss (2013) (via Aaron Aloysius)
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - 40
Mocking The Draft - 38
CBS Sports - 58
Draft Tek - 43
Final Thoughts
Jerry Reese has a very strong history of drafting receivers high. He generally likes long-armed, big-handed prospects with good production, and Jordan Matthews picture could be next to that description. He provides solid value with a very high floor at a position of need.
Barring them drafting a receiver with their first pick, or a prospect that represents unbelievable value falling, the Giants absolutely should consider Jordan Matthews at 43rd overall.