REPORT:This off-season, the Giants need a lot of assistance, especially at this position.
With multiple obvious flaws in its roster, especially on the offensive end of the ball, the New York Giants have a lot of work ahead of them. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Pro Football Focus feels the Giants should select a quarterback in the first round of the 2024 draft, having compiled a list of the top draft prospects suitable for each of the 32 NFL teams.
And Trevor Sikkema chose which quarterback prospect for the Giants? It would be none other than Drake Maye of North Carolina, about whom he writes: “Given the opportunity to draft Drake Maye, I would do it, even with Daniel Jones’ poor performance early in the season.” Maye would be the ideal addition to Brian Daboll’s offense as he has by far the most big-time throws of any quarterback in the FBS over the past two seasons. Right now, the Giants are scheduled to select sixth later in the spring draft. The teams that are currently ahead of them are the Patriots and Washington, both of which require quarterbacks. The Giants would likely need to get past one of those two if they are set on Maye.
But for the time being, let’s adhere to PFF’s assessment that Maye is a good fit for the Giants. Our very own Brandon Olsen said back in November that Maye was his quarterback of choice, pointing out that while he may not be as athletic, he can still do the job well. I think he’s the best passer in the nation as well. As a vertical passer who pushes the ball downfield along the sidelines, Maye is most effective. Maye’s mechanics, particularly his footwork, require improvement, and his processing is erratic, which worries me. Under the two coordinators he has played for, his offense has required him to either work with one-read concepts or make top-down reads in search of vertical routes. Nevertheless, Olsen also mentioned that a team would be safe if Caleb
Whether it’s during the offseason, preseason, or regular season, both quarterbacks will probably need some time to get used to a more pro-style approach. Both quarterbacks should have attacks tailored to their requirements, with concepts from college they are comfortable with but somewhat modified, and neither move will be overly radical. The Giants have a lot of offensive positions they need to improve, including quarterback. They also need to strengthen the offensive line and acquire a real No. 1 receiver. They would likely need to address the running back position if running back Saquon Barkley leaves via free agency unless they are prepared to go with Eric Gray and Jashaun Corbin, who have contracts that expire in the next season.
Following the games next week, the first eighteen slots in the draft order will be locked in. With a little assistance from other clubs, the Giants, who are now ranked fifth, have a chance to move up to the second slot. The eighth pick is the lowest the Giants may go in the draft order.