Eli Manning helping potential Giants first-round QB prep for draft is eye-opening

Will the NY Giants end up taking a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft? That's the question everyone has in mind as we get closer to late April. There are plenty of star signal-callers fans are eyeing, of course including a stud out of North Carolina

As part of the LIV golf Pro-Am in Sin City, Drake Maye seized the opportunity to play 18 holes with the forever legendary (and controversial) Phil Mickelson, accompanied by Tennessee Titans quarterback Will Levis. When discussing his draft preparation and feelings heading into April's NFL Draft, Maye openly acknowledged his growing connection and bond with Eli Manning. Could we see a different ACC quarterback other than Daniel Jones at the helm next year?

"I’ve been working with Eli throughout the process, getting on Zooms and talking football with him... I’m working out in Mobile, Alabama, and his backup quarterback in college was Dave Morris, and he’s training me for the draft. Pretty small world. And, I was at the Manning Camp this summer, so I got to see Eli and Peyton."

- Drake Maye

Drake Maye is in play for the NY Giants in the first round

While many pundits and media members speculate that Maye will be off the board before the Giants' No. 6 overall draft selection, the possibility of a trade-up or draft day slide cannot be ruled out. After two impressive seasons with the Tar Heels in Chapel Hill, numerous teams will vie for his services on draft day.

However, Maye does not boast a flawless track record heading into the draft. In his two seasons as a starter, the Tar Heels faltered when it mattered most, letting the ACC title slip away in both seasons. In his final collegiate game, the NC State Wolfpack defense pressured him in the pocket, leading to two crucial interceptions in a must-win game. The Giants need a winner, and Maye has yet to prove he has the "it" factor that all the greats possess.

Manning is the ideal mentor for a young QB in today's era. Eli, renowned for always saying the right thing and handling the New York media adeptly, can impart valuable lessons to Maye, shaping him into the ultimate professional. One can only wonder if Manning is relaying insights regarding the young QB to the Giants' front office.

If Maye is selected by the Giants, having Eli as a quasi-scout could prove highly beneficial for Big Blue. Giants fans can only hope for a successful draft in 2024, regardless of whether they opt for a QB or another position, and aim to kick off the upcoming season on the right foot.