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By Michael Stewart

Introduction: In my 1st mock draft, I had the Giants trading back in the 1st round with the Buffalo Bills. In my 2nd mock draft I will have the Giants trading back with the Denver Broncos as RB Saquon Barkley was selected 1st overall by the Cleveland Browns. Once again, based on the trade value chart from www.Drafttek.com the Giants 2nd overall is worth 2600 points. so it would take a hefty package for the Broncos to trade up three spots.. Therefore, the  Giants  agree to trade their 2nd overall pick to the Denver Broncos for their 1st rounds pick (5th ), their 2nd round pick (40th ), their two 3rd round selections (71st & 99th) and their 4th pick in the 2019 draft (2685 points). That’s a hefty package to give up by the Broncos, however; thanks to the Jets trade with the Colts, Any team willing to move up will most likely overpay. Then I’ve got the Giants trading back into the 1st round with Los Angeles Chargers at #17 for their 2nd (#34),  two 3rd round picks (#69 & #99), and their 3rd & 5th round picks in 2019. Keep in mind, some prospects I’ve selected in my 1st mock draft, may not be available for this one. Therefore; here are my selections for the New York Giants 2018 NFL draft:

1st round (#5)

OG-Quenton Nelson-6’5/325 (Notre Dame): This pick could go either way between Quenton Nelson or Bradley Chubb as both positions are needed. Ultimately; the Giants select Nelson to solidify the offensive line. Nelson was a force for Notre Dame in 2017, showing the ability to overwhelm defensive linemen as a run blocker and pass protector. After surveying sources from around the league, including multiple general managers, Nelson is a consensus elite prospect for the 2018 NFL Draft. However, he might go behind lesser prospects in the draft just because he is a guard and many teams don’t value guards that high.

1st round (#17) Trade with the Los Angeles Chargers

OLB-ILB-Rashaan Evans-6’3/231 (Alabama):  The Giants acquired linebacker Alec Ogletree recently to upgrade the linebacker position, however; more depth and talent is needed. Evans was a human missile on the field for Alabama and showed impressive skill set with size, speed and physicality. He can play on the inside or outside and goes sideline to sideline with the best of them. Evans also showed that he can rush the passer as well and would excel in a 3-4 scheme..

 


2nd round (#40)

DT/DE-Da’Shawn Hand-6’4/295 (Alabama): The Giants double dip and select another Crimson Tide prospect Da’ Shawn Hand. Hand is very mobile for his size and played along the Crimson Tides defensive line. Hand displayed equal ability to handle the inside and outside responsibilities effectively. Hand is built to play in a 4-3 or a 3-4 defensive scheme; which is why the Giants will utilize this pick to select him. Hand has an endless motor and never gives up on plays.

 

3rd round (#66)

RB-Rashaad Penny-5’10/225 (San Diego State): Penny ran well as a senior, using his size to roll over a lot of weak opponents. He averaged 7.8 yards per carry for 2,248 yards with 23 touchdowns, plus made 19 receptions for 135 yards and two scores. As a junior, Penny averaged 7.4 yards per carry for 1,005 yards with 11 touchdowns. He caught 15 passes for 224 yards and three scores that season as well.

3rd round (#71)

OC-Will Clapp-6’4/315 (LSU): Clapp has played mostly at guard, but was able to move over to play center without looking uncomfortable at the position.. Clapp has the size and mobility that many teams covert in the NFL. Clapp stock fell a bit due to his injury, howev er;  if deemed healthy, Clapp could be a steal in the 3rd round.

4th round (#108)

WR-Jaleel Scott-6’5/212 (New Mexico State): Jaleel Scott features a long frame with solid overall bulk. His size helps him make plays all over the field including on deep passes. The bulk on his frame gives him the ability to box out defenders and work to the sideline. His body control is also a positive skill set. He is able to adjust his frame in order to make some acrobatic catches.

5th round (#139)

CB-Holton Hill-6’2/195 (Texas): Hill has a high ceiling guy with question marks, but has the height and length that teams covet, and his technique through plays is very good.  Hill has all of the talent and physical skills to be a top of the draft player, but will drop due to inconsistencies and immaturity. The Giants have gamble before on late round talent with character issues (Ahmad Bradshaw, 7th round). If Hill can mature and leave his past behind him, the Giants will have gotten a late round steal.

Final Thoughts: This mock draft like the first one is highly unlikely; especially having the Giants trading back into the 1st round. Although stranger things have happened before and thus far this off season, GM Dave Gettleman has been willing to do the unexpected. Next article: Giants keep their picks Mock Draft.