When the New York Giants selected Andrew Thomas fourth overall in the 2020 NFL draft, they hoped the Georgia product would be a prized piece to build around for years to come.
If Thomas’ 2022 campaign was any indication of what is to come, Big Blue got just that.
But some would do it differently if they could go back. Bleacher Report released a 2020 re-draft and the Giants ended up landing star wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
4. New York Giants: Justin Jefferson, WR, LSU
Original Pick: Andrew Thomas, OT, GeorgiaNew York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones had his own breakthrough campaign in 2022, emerging as a capable dual-threat and helping the Giants return to the postseason after a five-year absence.
Offensive tackle Andrew Thomas, who was originally taken in this spot, played a big role in Jones’ progress this season. The former Georgia standout was responsible for only two penalties and three sacks allowed, according to Pro Football Focus.
However, New York now has a chance to snag arguably the best receiver in the NFL, and it doesn’t pass on it.
Former LSU wideout Justin Jefferson has simply been fantastic since the Minnesota Vikings took him 22nd overall in 2020. He has three Pro Bowls, one first-team All-Pro and the 2022 Offensive Player of the Year on his resume. In three seasons, the 23-year-old has amassed 4,825 yards and 25 touchdowns on 324 receptions.
This past season, Jefferson provided a passer rating of 104.2 when targeted. He’s the sort of dominant No. 1 receiver Jones has lacked throughout his career and would aid his growth tremendously.
Simply put, the Giants would have an easier time finding a serviceable offensive tackle via trade or free agency than a receiver of Jefferson’s caliber.
The Giants, like any team across the league, would certainly benefit from having a player like Jefferson in their offense. They are still lacking a No. 1 caliber receiver and Jefferson is known as one of the league’s best.
Interestingly enough, there may have been a domino effect if Big Blue selected Jefferson that year fourth overall. They likely would not have signed Kenny Golladay to a lucrative deal, which resulted in one of the worst free agent signings in franchise history.
Also in the redraft, the Washington Commanders selected quarterback Jalen Hurts, while Chase Young (5th, Detroit Lions) still went ahead of Andrew Thomas (9th, Jacksonville Jaguars).
