With The First Pick
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NFL Rumors: The New York Giants decision on Jason Pierre-Paul will Change their Draft Plans

By Jon Dove

Nov 6, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) hands the ball off to running back Darren Sproles (43) as New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) pursues during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 6, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) hands the ball off to running back Darren Sproles (43) as New York Giants defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul (90) pursues during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Giants decided to use the franchise on Jason Pierre-Paul which will have a major impact on their 2017 NFL Draft plans.

Jason Pierre-Paul will be with the New York Giants for at least one more season receiving the high salary that comes with the franchise tag. This decision by the Giants means that they are counting on him to make a major impact.

New York has a ton of money tied up on the defensive side of the ball and the money they now owe Pierre-Paul only adds to situation.

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Retaining Pierre-Paul does open up some flexibility for the Giants in that they can now use their draft resources to address other needs. The biggest of those needs is arguably along the offensive line.

They need to find someone capable playing left tackle and protecting Eli Manning. Utah’s Garett Bolles is my top rated offensive tackle based on his combination size and elite athleticism. However, he’s a little raw and will need time to adjust.

Bolles’ athleticism and movement skills helps him protect the edge. He’s able to easily shuffle his feet and mirror the pass rush. Bolles shows a nasty streak that says he’ll improve as a run blocker as he gets stronger.

New York could also look at upgrading the running back position. This year’s draft has a ton of top-end running back talent that could help ease the pressure on Manning.

They could target someone like Toledo’s Kareem Hunt in the 2nd round. Hunt is an every-down back with big-play ability. He does a good job contributing in the passing game and can carry the load as a runner.

New York needs to utilize the draft to plug their holes because they won’t have much salary cap wiggle room to make additions via free agency.

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