New York Giants Select O.J. Howard in Recent NFL Mock Draft

Pro Football Focus recently released their most recent NFL Mock Draft. Who did they have the New York Giants selecting?

The New York Giants have had a busy offseason in 2017, as they try to improve for the regular season. One of the most notable moves made by the Giants was to sign wide receiver Brandon Marshall.

Having Marshall should help improve the offense for the Giants, as he will provide a big-bodied target for Eli Manning. While Marshall will help the offense, the Giants could still use some help at the tight end position.

For the past few seasons, the Giants haven’t received great production from the tight end position. With some struggles in the running game, having a good tight end would help not only the passing offense but also the running offense.

In Steve Palazzolo’s recent mock draft for Pro Football Focus, he has the Giants addressing the need at tight end by selecting O.J. Howard from Alabama. Here’s what Palazzolo had to say about Howard.

"This move is all about loading up on playmakers for the Giants’ offense. They already brought in former Jets WR Brandon Marshall to pair with Odell Beckham, Jr. and Sterling Shepard, and Howard adds a middle-of-the-field complement to the strong receiving corps. Howard wasn’t used often in the passing game at Alabama, but has the size and speed to stretch the seam; he averaged 7.1 yards after the catch per reception over the last three seasons."

At Alabama, Howard was in a run-first offense last season. With a freshman quarterback under center, opportunities were limited for Howard. Despite this, he was able to perform well.

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In his senior season, Howard totaled 45 receptions, 595 receiving yards, and three receiving touchdowns. In a normal offense, Howard could be a great addition for the Giants. Manning loves to feature tight ends in the offense, and Howard would be a perfect fit for the Giants in the first round.