5 Day 3 Draft Sleepers the Giants Can’t Afford To Pass On
By Ryan Amick
One of the great joys of the NFL Draft is finding a diamond in the rough in the later rounds. It's the ultimate feel-good story when an unknown player becomes a franchise cornerstone. Finding a star player past Round 3 seems nearly impossible, but someone gets overlooked in the draft every year.
Look no further than Puka Nacua. The Rams took a flier on the BYU wide receiver in the fifth round. Little did they know Nacua would go on to make the Pro Bowl and set rookie records for yards and receptions. Finding a bonafide superstar on Day 3 of the draft is rare, but teams often get long-term starters in Rounds 4-7.
The Giants have landed a couple of solid Day 3 players over the past few years. Darius Slayton has led the Giants in receiving yards in four of the last five seasons, and he was a fifth-round pick. Micah McFadden had an excellent season in 2023, ranking third on the team in tackles, he was also a fifth-round pick.
The Giants have three Day 3 draft picks this year (Round 4: No. 107, Round 5: No. 166, Round 6: No. 183). With that in mind, here's a look at five sleepers the Giants should target on Day 3 of the draft.
Colorado State EDGE Mohamed Kamara
A player who had a prolific collegiate career, Mohamed Kamara ranks second in Colorado State history in sacks (30.5) and tackles for loss (45.5). Kamara won Moutain West Defensive Player of the Year in 2023 after recording a career-high 14 sacks. Despite being undersized for a pass-rusher at 6-foot-1, Kamara overcomes taller offensive linemen with a quick burst and wide variety of moves.
Kamara is explosive off the ball, demonstrated by his 4.57-second 40-yard dash, which was second-fastest at his position. He likely won't be able to bullrush his way to the quarterback at the next level, but he has plenty of other pass-rush moves in his arsenal.
Kamara would also fit nicely in new Giants defensive coordinator Shane Bowen's 3-4 defensive scheme. Bowen emphasizes playing downhill and rushing the passer, which is Kamara's strong suit. Although the Giants already have Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux on the outside, Kamara would be a good rotational piece, especially since Azeez Ojulari is often injured.