NY Giants draft Elerson Smith: The good, the bad, the grade

AMES, IA - AUGUST 31: Defensive lineman Elerson Smith #16 of the Northern Iowa Panthers tackles running back Breece Hall #28 of the Iowa State Cyclones as he rushed for yards in the second half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on August 31, 2019 in Ames, Iowa. The Iowa State Cyclones won 29-26 over the Northern Iowa Panthers in triple overtime. (Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images)
AMES, IA - AUGUST 31: Defensive lineman Elerson Smith #16 of the Northern Iowa Panthers tackles running back Breece Hall #28 of the Iowa State Cyclones as he rushed for yards in the second half of play at Jack Trice Stadium on August 31, 2019 in Ames, Iowa. The Iowa State Cyclones won 29-26 over the Northern Iowa Panthers in triple overtime. (Photo by David Purdy/Getty Images) /
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National defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa ( Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports)
National defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa ( Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports) /

The grade:

Many have been clamoring for the Giants to go with the best player available approach for this draft, and that’s exactly what they did here.

While they already addressed the pass rushing group earlier in the draft, the team decided to double down given the potential of player they’d be getting. Instead of reaching for need like they have in prior years, it’s a welcome change.

While the offensive line is certainly a position that could’ve been addressed, let’s not act like the group of pass rushers the Giants have set the world on fire. Throwing as much talent as you can at the position and letting coaches help the cream rise to the top is a strategy implemented by some of the leagues top teams.

The Giants got a pass rusher with potential to turn into a major piece for their defense, while also getting excellent value. This is a pick that should be applauded, another great selection for the front office.

It’s refreshing to see the team’s front office continue to cultivate a draft where they add talent and assets that help the team not just now, but for years to come. It’s a forward thinking approach that many never expected to see take place while Gettleman was in charge.

GRADE: B+