New York Giants: Top 5 third-round draft picks since 2000
By Henry Buggy
Big Blue struggled to find consistent talent in the third round under former general managers Ernie Accorsi and Jerry Reese. New York Giants ownership moved on from Reese, in part, because of his inability to add value through the draft.
Giants fans are hoping that will change under first-year G.M. Dave Gettleman. There’s undoubtedly a buzz surrounding the team given their new additions. Saquon Barkley has the NFL’s No. 1 selling jersey. They finally have a viable starting left tackle in Nate Solder.
At this point, a quick turnaround doesn’t seem so far-fetched. But the Giants will also be counting on multiple rookies to make an impact in their first season.
Barkley and Will Hernandez are expected to immediately contribute. They aren’t the only ones. New York also invested in three third-round picks this offseason.
Gettleman selected outside linebacker Lorenzo Carter and defensive lineman B.J. Hill in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He then added cornerback Sam Beal to Big Blue’s roster in the third round of the Supplemental Draft.
All three are expected to see significant snaps in their rookies seasons. Hill and Carter could potentially earn starting roles in James Bettcher’s defense by Week 1. Beal gives the Giants insurance at the cornerback position with few options behind Janoris Jenkins and Eli Apple.
All three could prove to be some of the best third-round picks in recent Giants history. Given Big Blue’s slew of draft busts in the third round, it wouldn’t be surprising.