New York Giants: The 2018 NFL Draft Report Card
By Erik Lambert
2nd Round: Will Hernandez (OG, UTEP) – A
There is no pick that better compliments the Barkley selection than this one. If the Giants want to pound the football with their shiny, new running back they need to find hogs who can actually create lanes for him. A persistent issue for years. Will Hernandez is a giant step in the right direction. He’s a massive slab of granite that bulldozes defenders out of the way with his awesome power. A bit cumbersome but highly effective.
3rd Round: Lorenzo Carter (EDGE, Georgia) – A
The Giants are transitioning to a 3-4 defense. That puts a different demand on their edge rusher position, requiring more speed and agility. It’s why Jason Pierre-Paul was traded to Tampa Bay. Kudos to Gettleman for managing to secure Lorenzo Carter here. Talent-wise this kid could’ve gone late in the 1st round. He’s long, athletic and showed considerable progress last year when he took on a greater pass rush role.
3rd Round: B.J. Hill (DT, N.C. State) – B-
Hill flashed potential at times in 2017 for N.C. State and followed that up with a solid week at the Senior Bowl. He has an intriguing mix of up-the-field quickness and field awareness. He just hasn’t been able to maximize those qualities as yet. There’s also a lingering concern with his strength, making him a weak point in the run game. Not ideal for a 3-4 defensive lineman. Still, if given some time he can correct those issues.