NFC East Draft Grades: New York Giants
- Updated: May 21, 2014
Wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
New York Giants
Analysis: The Giants added one of the most dynamic players in this draft with the 12th-overall selection, bringing in receiver Odell Beckham Jr. With Hakeem Nicks departing via free agency, Beckham Jr., will instantly inject more playmaking ability to the offense. He also brings versatility, as the Giants already have Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle at wideout, and can now have a formidable three-receiver set. Beckham, a quick athlete with great running ability, much like Cruz, can play on the outside, or in the slot, giving the Giants plenty of options. The Giants drafted center, Weston Richburg, in the second round to help upgrade an aging and leaky offensive line. Richburg is an intelligent leader, and is technically sound. He could also move to guard if needed, and joins last year’s top-pick, Justin Pugh, as key members of the Giants’ rebuilt line. In the third round, the Giants brought in help at defensive tackle with Syracuse’s Jay Bromley, a high-effort player that has good quickness. In the fourth round, running back Andre Williams – one of the more decorated backs in the country – was brought in to add depth behind Rashad Jennings. Williams doesn’t dazzle with quickness, but he’s a hard-charging runner and could find his way into the rotation. The Giants also brought in two defensive backs, in safety Nat Berhe, and cornerback Bennett Jackson. Berhe could find time as a third safety, and Jackson has an uphill battle at a much-improved position for the Giants. USC linebacker Devon Kennard has a good chance to stick as the Giants are pretty thin at the position. The Giants brought in an impact player in Beckham Jr., then did a decent job added pieces to fill need areas.
Grade: B
New York Giants – 2014 Draft Selections
1 (12) Odell Beckham, WR, LSU
2 (43) Weston Richburg, C, Colorado State
3 (74) Jay Bromley, DT, Syracuse
4 (113) Andre Williams, RB, Boston College
5 (152) Nat Berhe, DB, San Diego State
5 (174) Devon Kennard, LB, Southern Cal
6 (187) Bennett Jackson, CB, Notre Dame
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