New York Giants: 5 Standouts From Preseason Finale

Geremy Davis , Owa Odighizuwa, Landon Collins

Sep 3, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New York Giants wide receiver Geremy Davis (9) makes a reception during the fourth quarter against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports

The Giants draft classes in recent memory have been pretty weak; it’s a big reason the roster is in the shape that it is now. But, the 2013 and 2014 drafts the Giants started turning things around, and so far it looks like they could have hit a home run with the 2015 class.

First, second round pick Landon Collins. Collins, who missed time earlier in the preseason with a knee injury, looked strong against the Patriots. He showed good range in coverage, knocking down a pass intended for Reggie Wayne in the first quarter. He also provided help in the run game, recording four tackles despite playing only part of the game. He looks locked in and ready to go as one of the starting safeties.

Next, third rounder Owa Odighizuwa. He has been making a case all season to open the season as a starter in an attempt to replace the injured but returning Jason Pierre-Paul. His pass rushing abilities are a work in progress, as he needs to add more to his repertoire, but it is developing nicely. He has been a weekly factor in the run game, and gets past blockers in a way that his fellow defensive lineman just haven’t been able to do. He is extremely athletic and active when on the field, so that alone should get him a role on the defense in the early going. As his technique improves, his role will expand as well as he has all the tools to be an every-down defensive end.

Last, but not least, sixth-round pick Geremy Davis. Davis had been showcasing his abilities on special teams, which looked like it would be enough to get him on the 53-man roster. But, his showing as a receiver against the Patriots should make him a lock for the final roster. Davis led the Giants with 65 receiving yards, catching three passes. He had an impressive 40-yard catch down the sidelines, and has done enough to make this team. He took full advantage of Corey Washington’s injury to showcase his receiving abilities in addition to his contributions on special teams.

There is a lot to be excited for about this draft class for the Giants thus far. Hopefully they can carry this success into the regular season when it starts against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday Night Football in 10 days.

Next: Strong Return For Defensive End