NY Giants Mock Draft: Joe Schoen pulls off 2 first-round trades in wild turn of events

NY Giants sixth-round pick: Auburn safety Jaylin Simpson

One of the tougher players for the Giants fan base to let go of was Xavier McKinney, who ended up taking a four-year deal with the Green Bay Packers. His departure was expected after the Giants didn’t place the franchise or transition tag on him.

They have Dane Belton, who was drafted two years ago and got more playing time in 2023. The Giants also have Jason Pinnock, who was claimed off waivers before the 2023 campaign - he also started and played the majority of the season next to McKinney. They have Jalen Mills as well, who has played both cornerback and safety, and he’ll add some experience to the position.

A year ago, the Giants selected Gervarrius Owens in the seventh round, but he played all of three games in his rookie year. Whether he factors to see more playing time in 2024 remains to be seen, so the Giants will add Jaylin Simpson with their sixth-round and final pick of the draft.

Simpson finished the 2023 season with 36 total tackles and four interceptions, one of which is featured in the video clip above. His ability to find the ball in coverage would be an asset for the Giants, especially with the loss and departure of McKinney, who was not only a fan favorite, but also a captain and one of the leaders on the defense in his four seasons in East Rutherford.