New York Giants: Five Reasons To Select Jerod Evans In 2017 NFL Draft

Dec 29, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Jerod Evans (4) celebrates after a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Arkansas Razorbacks during the Belk Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Virginia Tech defeated Arkansas 35-24. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 24, 2016; Blacksburg, VA, USA; Virginia Tech Hokies quarterback Jerod Evans (4) runs the ball against East Carolina Pirates defensive lineman Demage Bailey (97) during the second quarter at Lane Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Peter Casey-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Upside

Jerod Evans has limited in-game experience and a mountain of upside, which may actually work in the New York Giants’ favor. Rather than putting a finished product behind Eli Manning, the Giants would have a young player with intriguing potential to explore.

Every quarterback in the 2017 NFL Draft has a high ceiling, but Evans may have the most upside of the quarterbacks rated outside of the first round.

In his one and only season of FBS experience, Evans played at an elite level. He recorded 3,552 passing yards, 29 passing touchdowns, and eight interceptions, as well as 846 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns, in 14 appearances.

Evans led Virginia Tech to an ACC Championship Game appearance, a bowl game victory, and a strong and respectable 10-4 record.

Many are under the impression that Evans should have spent another season in college. His upside is undeniable, however, and his success as both a passing and running playmaker was a remarkable sign of that reality.

Perhaps the best parallel for this situation would be how Dak Prescott replaced Tony Romo after previously being regarded as a project.

Must Read: Five reasons to draft Deshaun Watson

If the New York Giants want to swing for the fences on Eli Manning’s heir apparent, then Jerod Evans would be the best mid-to-late round option.

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