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The New York Giants are in a terrific salary cap situation. Even if they don't make another move to create space they have the fourth most space of any team in the league -- a seemingly rare occurrence for a team with a franchise quarterback who isn't on his rookie contract. They will likely use that money to shore up as many roster holes as possible heading into the draft. Free safety, linebacker, defensive line, offensive line, and wide receiver could, should, all be addressed at some point this off-season.
However, if the Giants can't land one of the free agent receiver options, they will have to look to the draft to continue to add weapons around Eli Manning.
Measurables
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 212
Arm Length: 32 1/8"
Hand Size: 10 1/2 inches
40 Time: 4.50 (projected)
Pros
- Prototypical size for the position, with solid athleticism on the field. Long strider in the open field and quick out of his breaks.
- A versatile player, can play wide or the slot.
- Willing blocker. Thomas is a willing blocker and has the frame to become a good one, but he needs work.
- Isn't afraid to fight and make tough catches.
- Large catch radius with big hands
Cons
- Like many college receivers, route running is a work in progress.
- Shows decent quickness and the long speed to not get caught, but doesn't seem to have a great burst off the line.
- Consistently productive, but not exceptionally so. Only two career 100-yard receiving games. Is that the receiver, or a product of Ohio State's talented offense?
- Didn't face much press coverage in college. How well can he adapt to it in the NFL?
Prospect Video
Big Board Rankings
Big Blue View - 24th
Mocking The Draft - 22nd
CBS - 36th
Draft Tek - 59th
Does He Fit With the Giants?
If the Giants don't find a Number 2 receiver before the draft, and the value is right, then Thomas should fit. He has the size to be a good red zone and short-area target, but could develop into a good all-around possession receiver to make teams pay for focusing on Odell Beckham.
Thomas might not have the ceiling to be a true "Number 1" receiver in the NFL, but he has the tools to be a good receiver and dependable weapon for Eli Manning.
Final Thoughts
Thomas is one of the top receivers in this draft class. Not to take anything away from him, but this is not nearly as stout a class as in recent years.
That being said, if the Giants' receiving corps is still thin by the time of the draft, Thomas would make a quality addition. He benefited from playing on a team that was loaded with talent at every level of the offense and defense, but Thomas has the skills and tools to be a legitimate NFL starting receiver.