New York Giants: Grading Their Entire 2015 NFL Draft Class

Sep 28, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes offensive linesman Ereck Flowers (74) against the South Florida Bulls during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Miami Hurricanes defeated the South Florida Bulls 49-21. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

First Round 9th Overall Pick

Ereck Flowers, Offensive Tackle, Miami (FL)

When Brandon Scherff was taken with the fifth overall pick by the Washington Redskins, the Giants were left in a little bit of a quagmire. Instead of panicking and taking the best player available, such as wide receiver Kevin White or running back Todd Gurley, the Giants decided to take the next best offensive lineman on their board in Flowers.

Flowers should be an immediate producer for the Giants right off the bat. The only question is where will it come from? His long arms and size suggest that he will be a tackle, potentially taking over at right tackle to start, pushing incumbent right tackle and 2013 first round pick Justin Pugh inside to guard, where many thought he would end up eventually in his career.

This pick potentially makes the Giants better at two positions, which if that is the case makes up for the supposed value the Giants lost as some people think Flowers was a stretch at nine. If he kicks Pugh inside, the Giants offensive line is looking a whole lot better than it has over the past couple of seasons with a nice mix of experience in the way of veterans or younger players.

This pick will not truly be able to be graded until a few seasons down the road though. If Flowers is able to develop into the franchise-type left tackle, which his intangibles and attributes suggest may be possible, the Giants have gotten great value. Even if he doesn’t reach that level but can perform admirably at right tackle, the Giants have still done well.

Grade: B

Next: Huge Need Filled In Round 2