New York Giants 2011 Draft Preview
The Giants are getting rather long in the tooth on the offensive line, and it's beginning to show. Two starters up front missed significant time with injuries last season, while left guard Rich Seubert underwent surgery to repair a dislocated kneecap in January. With center Shaun O'Hara also a health risk, New York will be sure to add some young blood to the interior at some point in the draft, perhaps with its first-round choice (No. 19 overall). An early pick may also be earmarked for a strong-side linebacker to replace aging veteran Keith Bulluck, who's unlikely to be re- signed, and look for general manager Jerry Reese to bring in at least one cornerback in preparation for the possible future departures of Terrell Thomas and Aaron Ross, both of whom enter the final year of their deals. Though the Giants appear deep at both running back and wide receiver, the injury histories of Ahmad Bradshaw and Steve Smith may have Reese looking to replenish those spots as well.
2010 Record: 10-6
Top Needs: OL, OLB, CB
First Three Picks: No. 19, No. 52, No. 83
Number of Selections: 8 (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 6, 6, 7)
RECENT FIRST ROUND HISTORY: 2010 - Jason Pierre-Paul (DE, South Florida); 2009 - Hakeem Nicks (WR, North Carolina); 2008 - Kenny Phillips (S, Miami-Florida); 2007 - Aaron Ross (DB, Texas); 2006 - Mathias Kiwanuka (DE, Boston College); 2005 - none; 2004 - Eli Manning (QB, Ole Miss)*; 2003 - William Joseph (DT, Miami-Florida); 2002 - Jeremy Shockey (TE, Miami-Florida).
*Originally drafted by San Diego, then traded to Giants on draft day in exchange for New York first-round pick Philip Rivers
04/22 09:47:54 ET
