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Of all the positions rumored for Jerry Reese to select in this May’s NFL Draft, Wide Receiver has popped up more than a few times.

At the #12, this position is a possibility because of the impact players on the board that would fit the Giants formula of “best player available.” It’s also rumored because of the need this position has dramatically demonstrated on paper.

With Hakeem Nicks all but a sure bet of not returning to the Giants, that leaves Victor Cruz, Reuben Randle  Jerrel Jernigan as the likely Wide Receivers to play for the Giants next season.

Looking ahead, here are some names to keep on fans radar of possible Giant selections.

Sammie Watkins, Clemson— Barring some type of miracle or surprise, Watkins will be long gone by the time the Giants pick. He is the best wide out in the draft and arguably one of the best all around players. He is NFL ready and has been compared to AJ Green and Julio Jones.

Mike Evans, Texas A&M / Marqise Lee, USC—Both playes are realistic options at #12 and could fit in nicely. Lee is an impressive runner after the catch with speed and agility to make defenders miss in the open field. He also demonstrates versatility with experience returning kicks and punts.

As for Evans, he fits the bill as the prototypical NFL WR with a huge 6’5 frame, strength and speed to be a number one. His leaping ability and wingspan would be a great compliment to Jernigan and Cruz in the slot.

A surprise player who could soar up draft boards is Kelvin Benjamin, Florida State. Like Evans, Benjamin is a monster at 6’5 and would give Giants fans memories of Plaxico Burress with his ability to take long strides and use his catch radius to his advantage. Although an underclassmen, Benjamin is raw and has been inconsistent in catching the ball.

All in all, finding a quality talent at Wide Receiver shouldn’t be a problem. The overload at the top of the position should cause other Wide Receivers to be pushed down.

In the weeks to come, I will preview potential Giant targets if the team decides to wait in rounds 3-5.

Marco Imperati | Featured Columnist