Our Analysts Hand Out New York Giants 2016 Draft Grades

3 of 8

Nov 21, 2015; Norman, OK, USA; Oklahoma Sooners wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) reacts after catching a touchdown pass during the first half against the TCU Horned Frogs at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 2, Pick 9: Sterling Shepard (WR, Oklahoma)

This was an excellent pick. Not only is Shepard a talented receiver, but he also gives the Giants and Eli Manning another receiving threat that will hopefully spread opposing defenses and free Odell Beckham Jr. Shepard is also good insurance for Victor Cruz, who is a huge question mark right now.

Steve Curry: A

“This generosity is thanks to Shepard’s upside. Many pegged wide receiver as the positional target of the second round, so kudos to the Giants for resisting the Laquon Treadwell urge and cashing in accordingly. Of course, much larger profiles (both in grade and actually size) remained on the board. Shepard’s electricity and subsequent ceiling comes with a slightness in measurables, so hopefully he can carry over his collegiate over-production to the next level without regular injuries. Speaking of which, scouts spread across the nation relate Shepard’s game to Victor Cruz…which is truly the puzzler. On paper paired with OBJ, the offense should be lit on fire, but either this is an indictment on Cruz and he’s merely a cloned replacement sans depth, or Cruz is healthy but the threesome offers little variance in dynamics. The Jarvis Landry-type in Tyler Boyd or the Anquan Boldin-type in Leonte Carroo would have provided a more delectable change-up in options, but again, Sterling’s individual motor and track record could certainly prove doubters wrong.”

Michael Luca: B-

Next: DID THE GIANTS TAKE RISK ON DARIAN?

Home/NY Giants Draft