9 middle-round prospects the NY Giants should monitor prior to the 2023 NFL Draft

Mar 3, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; South Carolina defensive back Cam Smith (DB29) participates in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; South Carolina defensive back Cam Smith (DB29) participates in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 3, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama defensive back Jordan Battle (DB40) participates in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 3, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama defensive back Jordan Battle (DB40) participates in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

7. Alabama S Jordan Battle

With Julian Love set to hit free agency this offseason, the NY Giants may be put into a position where they need to let him walk. If this is the case, they may want to bring in a new safety to man the position. While Dane Belton would likely start Day 1 regardless of who is picked, it certainly wouldn’t hurt to add depth at the position.

If this becomes the case, the Giants may want to take a look at the 6-1, 209 pound safety out of Alabama, Jordan Battle. New York has had success drafting Alabama safeties in the past, so they could very well continue the tradition with Battle.

Out of all the safeties available in this year’s draft, Battle has one of the highest floors, playing at an extremely consistent level throughout his college career. While he has plenty of work to do in terms of playing against the run, his ability in coverage is where he shines.

Battle’s stats may not be the most eye popping, allowing 17 receptions on 22 targets for 133 yards and one touchdown. However, watching his film shows how technically sound he is in zone coverage. If selected by the Giants, Battle and Xaiver McKinney could make for an incredible ‘Bama safety duo, adding even more excitement to an already fun to watch defense.