Looking at the top 2021 NFL Draft needs for the New York Giants
By Evan Orris
2. Wide Receiver
The Giants’ wide receiver group was a mess. Darius Slayton had a sophomore slump, Sterling Shepard had his normal injury woes as he missed four games this season, and Golden Tate became a huge head case for the coaching staff.
On the bright side, Evan Engram was elected to the Pro Bowl. However, Engram had the worst season of his career. Engram had 11 drops and three of those turned into interceptions. Add three more interceptions when simply targeted and their were six total interceptions when the ball was thrown to Engram.
The New York Giants receivers had a total of 28 drops. Many of those came at crucial points in games, and made it impossible for the Giants to score. To truly evaluate Jones, they need to get some sure-handed receivers and some real playmakers.
This free agency class could be one for the ages. Chris Godwin, Allen Robinson, Kenny Golladay, and many other solid receivers can become free agents. That being said, if the Giants want to retain Leonard Williams, free agency may be off the table for a receiver.
However, 2021 NFL Draft wide receiver class could be even better than last year’s. Heisman winner Devonta Smith headlines this year’s class along with teammate Jaylen Waddle and LSU standout Ja’Marr Chase. These three could be gone by the time the New York Giants pick at No. 11, but there should be plenty of playmakers available for the Giants in the second round.