Sep 19, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Connecticut Huskies wide receiver Geremy Davis (85) catches the ball over South Florida Bulls defensive back Nate Godwin (36) and runs it in for a touchdown during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. South Florida Bulls defeated the Connecticut Huskies 17-14. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sixth Round, 10th Pick (186 Overall)
Geremy Davis, Wide Receiver, Connecticut
Wide receiver wasn’t a huge need for the Giants, but with the uncertainty around Victor Cruz as he rehabs from his patellar tendon surgery, they were expected to take one eventually. That eventually came with their second to last pick, as Davis profiles as a slot receiver in the NFL. That can afford the Giants some time to bring Cruz along slowly as they are building depth behind him so that they do not feel the need to rush him back to the field.
In college Davis was the victim of sometimes poor play along both the offensive line and from his quarterback. That played a role in his diminished stats his last season at UCONN along with missing two games. But, he was productive throughout his career, as he is in the top six in program history for receptions and receiving yardage.
Production is one thing the Giants look for when bringing in prospects. Another thing is leadership, which Davis has, as he was voted team captain in 2014 by his teammates. He is also a hard worker, which the Giants like to see, and something he will need if he is to carve out a role with this team.
The Giants have hit a gold mine with wide receivers lately. Not only have they hit early in drafts with reigning Rookie of the Year Odell Beckham Jr. and Rueben Randle in 2012, they have done an outstanding job unearthing some players other teams have passed over. Cruz is the most notable of that group as an UDFA that has turned into a great player for the Giants, and Corey Washington looks like he has a chance to do the same if he can show the coaching staff he warrants more playing time with increased production on special teams. Could Davis be the next in line for underappreciated receivers flourishing?
His willingness to work the middle of the field and do the dirty work, along with his skills against zone coverage, make Davis a prototypical slot receiving prospect. The Giants will be more than glad to see him work from there, as he gives them another player with experience playing the slow in case Cruz doesn’t return when expected.
Grade: B-
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