Giants Draft 2014: Pick by Pick Analysis and Grades
By Felix Davila
Credit: William Perlman/THE STAR-LEDGER via USA TODAY Sports
Final Grades
James’ Take:
Overall, I am not that thrilled with the Giants draft. It seems like there was a clear organizational philosophy shift in the way they drafted. In the past, Reese has targeted high upside size/speed freaks that might have significant risk attached to them, whether it was injury or character concerns. With the recent draft busts, it seems like word came from up top to draft players with durability and excellent character, as evidenced by 5 of the 7 picks being team captains for their respective college programs. In doing so, I think the upside and value of many of the picks, especially in the middle rounds, is questionable. I do like the first two picks and think they both have a shot at being long term starters, but I wouldn’t be surprised to see a lot of this class not pan out. While it has come back to hurt them the last few years, I still prefer teams to be aggressive when drafting and stockpiling talent. It is very rare that you see the Giants move around the draft board, yet if you look around at some of the top teams in the league (San Francisco & Seattle) they are willing to move all around to either gather extra picks or go up and grab players that fall and present significant value. They are also not shy about drafting players with character or durability concerns.
GRADE: C+
Felix’s Take:
Overall, my impression of this draft was initially highly critical, as I saw more favorable prospects in most rounds compared to the Giants selections. However, that’s the beauty of the draft. There are no sure picks or guarantees, adding to the suspense. The Giants stuck with their board, focused on character and leadership, and in certain cases went with the best talent available too. Such an approach may bring a lasting effect at least in character, setting up a foundation for long-term leadership for when the time comes that Eli and Coughlin are both retired. Something necessary for eased transitions to new tenures.
GRADE: B