New York Giants
Top Pick: Eli Apple, CB, Ohio State
The Giants really did go all out to improve their defense this off-season. They spent an incredible amount of money in free agency to bring in guys like Olivier Vernon and Janoris Jenkins. If that weren’t enough, their 1st rounder brought in Apple to fortify their new secondary. So far he’s given them 15 tackles and a forced fumble. His pass coverage needs work as he only has three passes defended and no interceptions. Hopefully an improved pass rush will eventually help with that.
Grade: C+
Hidden Gem: Sterling Shepard, WR, Oklahoma
The frustration for the Giants offense is centered around their lack of explosion and points production. That does not include the steady improvement of rookie receiver Sterling Shepard. Coaches were wild about him in preseason and he’s living up to the billing with 31 catches for 334 yards and two touchdowns. Not bad production considering Odell Beckham and Victor Cruz are ahead of him on the depth chart.