While the New York Giants obviously did alright for themselves when they selected Justin Pugh in last year’s draft, they could go to that well again this year while selecting another tackle with one of their early-round picks.
Piggybacking on Vincent Rapasardi’s column, the Giants still clearly have a need for offensive line help and don’t be surprised if they bypass some exciting play-makers at wide receiver (Mike Evans) and tight end (Eric Ebron) to beef up the offensive line once again.
The Giants, who own the 12th pick overall, could go in a lot of different directions, but offensive line help is always a critical need and, clearly, Will Beatty is not the future at tackle. With Eli Manning and his ankle a major concern, protecting him will be of the utmost importance.
So, what tackles could be available at the #12 pick? Well, the Giants have their eye on quite a few players. Here are a few OT’s they might target at #12.
(The list will exclude Greg Robinson of Auburn and Jake Matthews of Texas A&M, as they undoubtedly will be gone by the 12th pick).
Taylor Lewan, Michigan
If the Giants do end up taking a tackle in the first round, there are good odds it may be Michigan’s Taylor Lewan. Lewan is one of the taller (6’7”, 309 pounds), yet athletically gifted tackles available.
Lewan is strong, agile and can block with the best of them. If it wasn’t for some perceived character issues off the field, Lewan could have been one of the top-5 picks. It will be tough for the Giants to ignore Lewan if he is still on the board.
Cyrus Kouandjio, Alabama
While the Giants might be interested in Kouandjio, don’t expect them to reach for him with the 12th pick.
Kouandjio had a terrible combine, while not showing any explosive speed, as his 40-yard dash time was 5.59. He is still very athletic, agile and he has some upside to his game.
If he still available in the second round, maybe the Giants will take a long hard look at him, but he has almost zero shot of being taken with the 12th pick.
Morgan Moses, Virginia
Moses has long been targeted as a tackle the Giants might be interested in. At 6’6”, 325, Moses has the requisite size and strength to excel in the NFL.
Moses also has good technique, uses his feet really well and establishes his position with ease. His stock is not really high at the moment and he would be a significant reach at #12. Expect the Giants to pass on him there and hope he may be available in the second round if they go another route with their first pick.
Zack Martin, Notre Dame
Martin is one of the more versatile offensive lineman available in the draft and his stock is rising tenfold prior to the draft. Martin could also easily be moved to guard and excel there as well.
Martin is both strong and athletic and has all the fundamentals to succeed in the NFL. Word has it the Giants are very high on him and many are speculating that’s who’ll the Giants will take if he is there at #12.
Follow me Twitter @Stacdemon