New York Giants’ 2nd Round Targets
October 6, 2012; Eugene, OR, USA; Washington Huskies tight end Austin Seferian-Jenkins (88) warms up before the game against the Oregon Ducks at Autzen Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Scott Olmos-USA TODAY Sports
After drafting Odell Beckham Jr. in the first round, the New York Giants’ 2nd round selections are even more important. By choosing to go wide receiver in the first round, Big Blue will have to look in the second or third days of the draft to address their other team needs, including offensive line, tight end, and defensive tackle. In the second round, here are some potential prospects Jim Reese could draft.
Morgan Moses, OT Virginia
The Giants clearly need to help keep Eli Manning off his back if they wish to succeed next season. Morgan Moses could be exactly the guy they are looking for. The standout Virginia prospect excels in both pass and run blocking, and his quick kickslide off the snap can help keep speedy pass rushers off the quarterback. Some ‘experts’ had Moses going as high as the late first round, but that obviously did not happen. Also, many believe that Cyrus Kuandjio will be selected before Moses, making it more feasible that the Virginia star will fall to the Giants.
Austin Seferian-Jenkins, TE Washington
With Eric Enron being the only tight end drafted in the first round (Lions), Seferian-Jenkins might fall even more and could be the Giants’ 2nd round pick. Seferian-Jenkins was a phenomenal player at Washington, and he is arguably a better prospect then both 1st round tight ends last year. Jenkins has a rare combination of speed, blocking ability, and hands to go along with his monstrous 6’6″ 262 pound build. At Washington, Jenkins dominated the redzone, securing 8 touchdowns in 2013 (7 were from the redzone) and 21 in his three-year college career. If he is available come the Giants 2nd round pick, don’t be surprised to see the Jim Reese jump on the opportunity to draft him.
Jace Amaro, TE Texas Tech
Due to Austin Seferian-Jenkins’ renowned talent, there is a chance that he is not available when the Giants pick. If that is the case, why not go with the next best tight end? Jace Amaro is the best player Texas Tech has seen since Michael Crabtree, and Amaro’s hands are just as good if not better. Time and time again we have seen Jake Amaro make an incredible catch- and then barrel through defenders to further add yards after the catch. Amaro is a tough, raw talent whose pure athleticism and strength makes him a quality blocker as well. Although his decision making both on and off the field isn’t the best, he is still an incredible talent worthy of the Giants’ second round selection.
Ra’Shede Hageman, DT Minnesota
Last year the Giants’ pass rush declined severely, finishing 25th in the NFL for sacks. With Justin Tuck gone, the Giants need a defensive linemen to compliment Jason Pierre-Paul, Mathias Kiwanuka, and Cullen Jenkins. Adding a top tier defensive tackle like Hageman would be ideal, and would help in both rushing the passer and improving the 14th ranked rush defense. If Stephen Tuitt is available with the Giants pick than he would be a better steal than Hageman, although the odds of that happening are very slim. GM Jim Reese might snag Hageman if he is still available when the Giants are on the clock.