New York Giants Offseason: Reviewing the Interior Offensive Line

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NFL Draft: Quenton Nelson, Will Hernandez, Billy Price, Braden Smith, Isaiah Wynn, Frank Ragnow

If the New York Giants want Quenton Nelson, they’ll have to make him the No. 2 overall pick. While some would argue that second overall is too high to draft a guard, I would disagree. Nelson is the top offensive lineman in this year’s class and that is the Giants’ biggest need. He’s also one of the five best prospects overall.

Who cares where he plays? With Nelson, the Giants would be getting one of the best football players in the draft while also filling a need. Isn’t that what you hope to accomplish with top draft picks? There’s also a very good chance the Colts take Nelson third overall.

If the Giants don’t draft Nelson second overall, they’ll have to hope either Will Hernandez or Billy Price is still on the board at pick No. 34.

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Hernandez is an old school guard who overpowers defenders. He should be available in the second round but after impressing at the Senior Bowl, a good combine could elevate Hernandez into first-round consideration.

Price can play guard or center and the Giants value versatility in their offensive linemen. He’d be a great addition in the second round, but Price is more likely to be drafted towards the end of the first round.

Braden Smith should definitely be available in the second round and could even fall to the third. Smith is a plug-and-play starter who excels in the running game. He would be a great value, especially in the third round.

We talked about Isaiah Wynn when looking at offensive tackle prospects. He was the left tackle for Georgia but could move inside to guard at the next level due to a lack of size.

Frank Ragnow is considered the top center prospect in this year’s class (especially when Price is listed as a guard). If re-signed, Brett Jones would be on a one-year deal as a restricted free agent so perhaps the Giants would draft a long-term option at center, although that is unlikely.

Next: New York Giants Offseason: Reviewing the OTs

It has been well documented that the New York Giants need to improve their offensive line. If they can sign Andrew Norwell and bring back Brett Jones and D.J. Fluker, their interior would be pretty much set. And if they can make it work financially, they can keep John Jerry around for depth.

Big Blue will still need to figure out their offensive tackles, but solidifying the interior offensive lines should be much easier.