Due to the early success of the New York Giants this season, when the 2023 NFL draft rolls around, they will likely be picking in the second half of the first round. That’s unfamiliar territory for the Giants.
Currently, with four games remaining, the Giants are slated to pick 23rd overall and with the season winding down, mock drafts will be released more frequently in the coming months.
ESPN’s Todd McShay released a mock draft this week and had the Giants selecting wide receiver Jordan Addison out of USC with their first-round pick.
Note: McShay has the Giants selecting 20th despite the current Tankathon draft order.
Jordan Addison, WR, USC
Finding a Daniel Jones replacement on Day 1 likely won’t be an option this late, and I’m guessing the Giants stick with Jones on a short-term contract and add some competition for him in free agency or on Day 2 of the draft. But New York has to add pass-catchers, regardless of who is throwing to them. Sterling Shepard can’t stay healthy, Kenny Golladay has been a massive disappointment, and Kadarius Toney is now in Kansas City. The current depth chart reads Darius Slayton, Isaiah Hodgins and Richie James. That isn’t going to get it done. So how about pairing Wan’Dale Robinson (out because of a torn ACL) with Addison, an explosive receiver with ability to come down with 50-50 balls, stretch the field or pick up extra yards in open space? That should boost an underwhelming pass offense.
In a season where Daniel Jones has taken strides forward and led Big Blue to a winning record, the lack of talent and playmakers at the wide receiver position hindered the offense quite a bit.
The Giants have been connected to Odell Beckham Jr. but so far, OBJ remains unsigned. If the Giants do not sign Beckham, the draft may be their best route to add talent at the position considering a weak 2023 wide receiver free agent class.
While the Giants have plenty of holes to fill on the roster, the need at wide receiver may be the most glaring need this offseason. They will also hope to add some help on the offensive line and in the secondary.
