New York Giants
Key Draft Needs: OT, MLB, QB
Record: 10-4
Offensive Tackle – At 35-years old, Eli Manning isn’t going to be in the NFL too much longer. The Giants can however extend his career by protecting him and reducing the number of hits he takes. The offensive line has done a good job of that this season as Manning is on pace to be sacked fewer times this season than any of the past three years. However, the tackle position is an area of concern after this season. Both Marshall Newhouse and Will Beatty are unrestricted free agents and Ereck Flowers may be better off moving from left to right tackle. If Newhouse and Beatty don’t return, look for the Giants to add a rookie and a veteran at the position.
Quarterback – Similar to how the Patriots have continued to groom backups behind Tom Brady, the Giants must do the same with Eli Manning. Ryan Nassib and Josh Johnson, the only other quarterbacks on the roster, are both free agents. The Giants don’t have to spend an early-round selection on the position, but a day three prospect such as Davis Webb out of California or Central Michigan’s Cooper Rush are possibilities.
Middle Linebacker – After bringing in Kelvin Sheppard prior to the 2016 season, this position wasn’t expected to be a weakness for the Giants. After recording 105 tackles for the Dolphins last season, Sheppard is on pace for just 45 stops this year despite not missing a game. To make matters worse, Sheppard will be a free agent after this season and rookie B.J. Goodson has yet to impress. The name to watch for the Giants is Anthony Walker, Jr. of Northwestern. He’s excelled as a middle linebacker in a 4-3 defense and appears ready to contribute immediately.