NY Giants’ biggest reasons for optimism, and to worry, in 2022
By Reese Nasser
Team altering draft decisions and a strong young core
While there are many reasons for concern regarding this NY Giants team next season, there is also reason for optimism. If the right decisions are made, the team could look vastly different heading into week one of 2022.
The main reason for optimism is the current draft position that the NY Giants are in.
There is potential for this team to have two picks in the top-10 of the upcoming draft. These picks could instantly change this team, depending on how they are used. There are two routes that could be taken.
The first option is to select two of the top players in this class. This years class is heavy in all of the areas that the Giants need fixing. There are elite prospects on the offensive line, defensive line, secondary, and linebacker spots. Prospects such as Alabama offensive tackle Evan Neal or Notre Dame safety Kyle Hamilton could be prospects that can help this team as soon as they arrive.
The NY Giants could also choose to trade up in the draft and take one of two of the top defensive prospects the NFL has seen in some time. Defensive end prospects Aiden Hutchinson and Kayvon Thibodeaux could prove to be generational talents but moves will have to be made to get either player. If done correctly, the Giants could fix a defensive line that is desperate need of help.
The second option is a trade. A blockbuster trade, while extremely risky, could be exactly what this team needs. A trade for an eite quarterback such as Russell Wilson or Aaron Rodgers may not be off the table. Two top-10 picks would make almost any team in the NFL at least question if they would move on from their current quarterback or not.
The best position for the Giants to take could be to simply continue to build around Daniel Jones. A rebuilt offensive line, with an elite rookie prospect could help fix this team’s broken offense. An elite defensive rookie prospect could do the same for the defense. Young pieces such as wide reciever Kadarious Toney, edge rusher Azeez Ojulari, and safety Xavier McKinney can also be expected to make strong leaps heading into next season.
The 2021 season was derailed by unforeseen issues, but things could be different in 2022. As players become healthy once again and issues in the front office are resolved, this team could up to their potential next season.