New York Giants 7 Round Mock Draft: Fleecing division rivals with trades, adding starters
By Ryan Messick
Round 1, Pick No. 5: Charles Cross, T, Mississippi State
Before the New York Giants pick at number 5, Kyle Hamilton, Aidan Hutchinson, Ikem Ekwonu, and Ahmad Gardner were off the board.
There were no tempting trade offers, so the obvious pick felt like the way to go.
The Giants have been reported to be showing a lot of interest in offensive tackle Charles Cross, and he would make a lot of sense to slot in as their starting right tackle. The Giants scouted him at his pro day and he’s likely to be available when they pick, as he was in this mock draft.
Cross is a strong pass blocker, perhaps even better than Ickey Ekwonu, who most pundits project to go above him. Cross’s experience is in an Air Raid offense, so he’s used to dropping back and would provide a lot of security for Daniel Jones as he makes his case this year to be extended as the franchise quarterback.
His USA Today scouting report touts his athleticism and ability to keep pace with pass rushers with balance and strength, while also singing his praises in terms of arm length and leverage. The main area of his game that scouts would like to see improve is in the run game, but obviously, most teams in the NFL place much more of a priority on protecting the passer in today’s game.