New York Giants: Jerry Reese Explains Why He Drafted Davis Webb
Why did general manager Jerry Reese draft quarterback Davis Webb? The hope is that the New York Giants can develop Webb into Eli Manning’s successor.
The New York Giants shocked the masses on Friday, April 28 by drafting a quarterback in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft. Some expected general manager Jerry Reese to follow that path, but watching it transpire was jarring for Eli Manning’s loyal supporters.
Although some could argue that the writing is on the wall, Reese took to a public forum to explain the logic behind drafting a quarterback on Day 2 of the 2017 NFL Draft.
The quarterback in question, Davis Webb, is coming off of a wildly productive college career. He began his career with the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Big 12 before making a successful transition to playing in the Pac-12 with the California Golden Bears.
True as that may be, Manning is one of the most popular players in franchise history, as well as a two-time Super Bowl champion—and he’s still playing at a relatively high level.
According to Jordan Raanan of ESPN, the decision to draft Webb was made with the hope that he can learn the nuances of the game from Manning and eventually take over as the starter.
"“Couple years to be the caddie and learn the pro game and all the nuances of playing quarterback in this league,” Reese said of his plan for Webb. “But he has all the tools. Hopefully he can sit on the sideline with a clipboard and learn the game.”"
Per George Willis of The New York Post, Reese added that he believes Webb will be ready to start in two-to-three years.
"“We think [Webb] has a high ceiling and can come in and learn the pro game,” Reese said, adding, “Hopefully, he can sit behind Eli for two or three years.”"
Its an ambitious pick, but it’s also one that bordered on necessary for an organization that could lose its franchise player in the near future.
Manning turned 36 years of age in January and is 201 regular season games deep into his NFL career. Coupled with his 12 games of postseason experience, Manning has endured a heavy workload during his 13-year tenure with the Giants.
Although Manning may be the NFL’s resident ironman, even he will eventually lose his battle against father time—an undefeated foe.
The question is: will Manning be ready and willing to relinquish the throne in two-to-three seasons?
New York could potentially find itself in a situation similar to what the Green Bay Packers infamously endured. An all-time great gunslinger could have his job threatened by a former California Golden Bears star with tremendous velocity behind his throws.
This is all conjuncture at the current stage, but the reality is that New York is inheriting a quarterback who threw for 4,295 yards and 37 touchdowns in 2016.
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The question is: will Davis Webb make the successful transition from college star to New York Giants franchise quarterback?