After an 0-5 start under new head coach Joe Judge, the Giants were able to go 6-5 the rest of the season. A 6-10 record isn’t something to write home about, but coming back from such a poor start did raise hopes moving forward.
Daniel Jones was pressured at the second-highest rate in the league and sacked the second-most number of times. The offense did lose Saquon Barkley early, but ranked 31st in the league. They ended up adding Kenny Golladay in free agency, but more is needed to turn that offense around completely.
New York Giants 2021 Draft Picks
Round 1: No. 20, WR Kadarius Toney
Round 2: No. 50, LB Azeez Ojulari
Round 3: No. 71, CB Aaron Robinson
Round 4: No. 116, LB Elerson Smith
Round 6: No. 196, RB Gary Brightwell; No. 201, CB Rodarius Williams
Team needs
Offense
The Giants could still go after a receiver in this draft, but with Golladay in the bag, they’ll likely move to protect Jones if they don’t go with a defensive player in the first round. But keeping Daniel Jones in a clean pocket should remain a priority, and their results from last season were awful. Adding in Jones’ propensity for fumbles, there is little doubt they need more help up front.
Defense
The Giants defense was middle of the road last season and with an average quarterback, they’ll need to keep improving for a shot at a winning record. Getting to the quarterback remains job one for a defense and the Giants still need a true EDGE rusher. At No. 11 they should have their pick of the top guys. The only trouble is the position isn’t stacked.
The team also needs an upgrade at cornerback on the other side of James Bradberry and could end up waiting until the second round to go after a pass rusher. The No. 11 pick could end up being worth more to another team though, which could help the Giants gain some picks while getting into position for an upgrade to their defense later in the first round via a trade.
Dream first pick
EDGE, Gregory Rousseau, Miami (after trading back)