It’s early March, so that means it’s oppressive mock draft season in the NFL. Everyone who is anyone is releasing their latest mocks ahead of the 2020 NFL Draft despite the reality that nearly 100 percent of them will be incorrect after the first few picks, but I digress…
Josh Edwards of CBS Sports recently released his updated three-round mock, and his choices for the New York Giants are basic, but interesting.
First up, Edwards has the Giants remaining in place at No. 4 and landing Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons.
It would not be a surprise if Dave Gettleman still addressed a need at offensive tackle with this selection, but Simmons is a special talent. There is a need at the position as well, so New York should swing back around to the offensive tackle position later.
After passing on an offensive tackle in Round 1, Edwards has the Giants and general manager Dave Gettleman addressing that in Round 2 and then, with a projected compensatory pick in Round 3, snagging a wide receiver.
Coincidentally, both come from USC.
36. Giants – Austin Jackson, OT, USC
98. Giants – Michael Pittman Jr., WR, USC
Jackson was a two-year starter at USC prior to declaring for the draft and has tremendous upside, but still needs some work before becoming a starter at the next level. He struggles a bit with his footwork and hand technique, but that can be buffed out with quality coaching. But at 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds, he has an ideal frame and can be molded.
Meanwhile, Pittman is the tall and physical wide receiver the Giants currently lack, standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing in at 223 pounds. He ran a 4.52 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and posted a 36.5-inch vertical, silencing some concerns that he couldn’t create separation down the field or high-point the ball. Pittman’s stock is rising and he may not be available at the end of Round 3 come April.
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