2018 NFL Draft: Top Team Needs for the New York Giants

The New York Giants filled some key team needs during free agency, but need to use the 2018 NFL Draft to round out the roster.

It seems like the New York Giants are one of the biggest mystery teams in the 2018 NFL Draft. They have plenty of team needs to fill and plenty of different directions to take. The biggest decision obviously comes at pick No. 2 overall.

New York has several options including drafting a quarterback, NC State’s Bradley Chubb, Penn State’s Saquon Barkley or trading the pick.

Many feel that the Giants pick is the prime trade spot for teams looking to move up for a quarterback. The Buffalo Bills are the team most talked about based on their quarterback need and tons of draft capital.

However, the Giants are just as likely to select a quarterback for themselves as they are to trade down.

Below are the New York Giants top team needs as we head towards the 2018 NFL Draft:

1. Center

As it stands, Ben Jones is the top contender to land the Giants starting center job. This isn’t going to stick as there are several better options in the 2018 NFL Draft. The top center prospects include Iowa’s James Daniels, Ohio State’s Billy Price, Arkansas’ Frank Ragnow and Michigan’s Mason Cole.

More from With the First Pick

• 2024 NFL Draft: Prospect Viewing Guide for Week 0
• 2024 NFL Draft: All Eyes On NFL Draft Defensive Prospects
• Player Spotlight: USC Safety Calen Bullock
• 2024 Senior Bowl Watchlist Announced
• 2024 NFL Draft: Florida State is Loaded with Prospect in 2023

Daniels would be a strong option if the Giants do orchestrate a trade with the Bills. He’s someone who is expected to go in the late 1st round.

2. Guard

The interior of the Giants offensive line is a complete mess right now. They lost two starters in Weston Richburg and Justin Pugh via free agency. New York could also stand to find an upgrade for returning starter John Jerry.

3. Pass Rusher

Olivier Vernon is an effective pass rusher, but is the only one on the roster who can create consistent pressure. The Giants defense is facing a scheme change in which they will be looking for more of a linebacker type edge rusher.

Bradley Chubb is absolutely an option at pick No. 2 and would make a ton of sense. As a whole, this year’s draft doesn’t have a tone of high upside pass rushers.

4. Quarterback

Eli Manning likely has a few more seasons left in the tank. However, the Giants are in a rare position to find his long-term replacement. Drafting a quarterback at No. 2 would give them a concrete plan for when Manning retires.

5. Running Back

Jonathan Stewart is just a place holder and Wayne Gallman hasn’t proven himself capable of being an every-down back. This is why Saquon Barkley is getting a long look at pick No. 2 overall. The Giants could build their future offense around the ultra-talented Barkley.

6. Cornerback

Janoris Jenkins and Eli Apple are extreme wildcards. They both have plenty of talent, but come with questionable maturity. New York doesn’t have a strong depth behind these two players which is a cause for concern.