Kiper: Offensive tackle or defensive end for Giants at No. 23

In his first 2017 NFL mock draft, ESPN’s Mel Kiper attempted to help solve the New York Giants’ offensive line puzzle by giving them Wisconsin offensive tackle Ryan Ramczk with the 23rd overall selection. During a conference call this week Kiper said he believes defensive end is the Giants’ other likely option at that spot.

Here is what Kiper said during the call while explaining his choice for the Giants:

“Defensive end made sense (at 23). I thought about pushing them (Stanford running back Christian) McCaffrey, but Paul Perkins development late in the year nixed that. If they can move Flowers over to the right side and Ramczyk is an adequate left tackle, same thing with (Garret) Bolles, then they would help that offensive line and help out Eli Manning. You want the pass rusher? See if Taco Charlton drops down that far. He would make a lot of sense. I would look at him over the offensive tackle, depends on their grade on the other defensive ends like Derek Barnett … One of those two spots they should be able to fill with that pick.”

Most analysts believe there are only three first-round offensive tackle, Ramczyk, Bolles and Cam Robinson of Alabama. Kiper said Day 2 players he likes are Dion Dawkins (Temple), Taylor Moton (Western Michigan) and Antonio Garcia (Troy).

Kiper also vouched for the widespread belief that this is a strong year for the tight end class, a position where the Giants are in need of help.

“This is the year,” Kiper said. “If you want a tight end this is a year you should be able to get one.”

There are 20 tight ends with draftable grades in the CBS Sports prospect rankings.

Much will change between now and when the draft begins on April 27, but those are some of Kiper’s initial thoughts that should be of interest to those who follow the Giants.