If the 2016 NFL Draft were held this week the New York Giants would hold the 13th overall selection in the first round. What would they do with it? We have already seen a rash of mock drafts predict the selection of a defensive end, and Dan Kadar of Mocking The Draft followed the crowdMonday with the selection of Clemson DE Shaq Lawson for the Giants.
Here is Lance Zierlein of NFL.com on the Giants' draft needs:
Top need: Defensive end
Other needs: Running back, safety, offensive tackle
Senior prospects at positional needs: DE: DeForest Buckner (Oregon), Shilique Calhoun (Michigan State), Shawn Oakman (Baylor); RB: Devontae Booker (Utah), Josh Ferguson (Illinois), Aaron Green (TCU); Safety: Deon Bush (Miami), Jeremy Cash (Duke), Kevin Byard (Middle Tennessee State); OT: Vadal Alexander (LSU), Taylor Decker (Ohio State), Spencer Drango (Baylor).
Analysis: We've been able to peek into the world of what life without a healthy Jason Pierre-Paul looks like and it is not pretty. The Giants need another pass rusher as soon as possible. Competition must be created at that position and at the safety position opposite rookie Landon Collins. Finding a dual-threat safety who can handle himself in coverage would be preferable. The running game is in desperate need of an upgrade and Tom Coughlin usually prefers to find a primary runner rather than just leaning on a committee. If the Giants are intent at leaving Ereck Flowers at left tackle, then they need to find a competent right tackle to go with him.
Nothing wrong with anything in Zierlein's analysis. I would, however, argue that at present the Giants' biggest need is this: More ... talent ... everywhere. Defensive end is, of course, an obvious one. You can argue, though, that there are talent deficiencies at every position on the roster with the exception of quarterback.
Your thoughts, Giants fans?