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Through the various mock drafts over the past few months, the experts around the league had pointed a few names that the Giants could be in play for at pick No.25. This was touted as one of the more tumultuous drafts in recent history, with no clear cut path of how things could shake out amongst various teams.
However, the general consensus around the league, and amongst the fans, was that the Giants needed help in three positions. They needed to add a speedy deep threat in a receiver, they needed to fortify their offensive line with a center, and they needed to bulk up their secondary with a legit corner.
Joe Schoen and the Giants leadership did so in the first three rounds. Surprisingly, three guys that were all tied to New York at pick 25 have found their way to MetLife.
Round 1, Pick 25: Deonte Banks, CB - Maryland
After the big four of wide receivers were all selected in a row right in front of the Giants, Joe Schoen had no choice but to pivot and trade up. He is a fast corner, clocking a 4.35 in the 40. He's also physically tough, a strong and tall man-to-man defender, that didn't allow a catch of over 30 yards all season. Considered an elite athlete and one of the top corners in the draft. Mel Kiper had Banks ranked 20th in draft position, so it was nice a value play for the GMen. Clearly, defensive coordinator, Wink Martindale, was hyped for the pick. The NYPD is back on!
Round 2, Pick 57: John Michael-Schmitz, C - Minnesota
The Giants landed the top-ranked center late in Round 2. That's a steal. He led all centers with a 92.3 PFF grade in 2022 and should have been a first rounder. He was a four year starter for Minnesota, where they had one of the most physical run games in all of college football, and he allowed just two sacks and three quarterback hits in the past three seasons. This is a major add for a division that is loaded with elite defensive lineman, and this is a great move in adding protection for Daniel Jones.
Round 3, Pick 73: Jalin Hyatt, WR - Tennessee
The Giants were desperate for a big play, deep threat, speedy wide receiver, and they got their guy. Hyatt is the ideal vertical threat in the offense of Mike Kafka, Brian Daboll, and Danny Dimes. He'll be able to stretch the field and provide great playmaking abilities for the new wide receiving core.
Fans who complained about trading lower round picks to move up are foolish. The Giants already possess a deep team, adding three marquee guys in the first three rounds is a major success in itself. Joe Schoen has capitalized on the opportunity and continued to show his competency as a General Manager. What a homerun hire, and a homerun draft thus far. Four more picks to go!