There is a silver lining for Giants fans bummed about possibly winning out of position to grab top pass-rusher Chase Young in the draft.
The Giants have plenty of other holes to fill.
Whether they draft No. 2 — still an outside possibility, and the latest Young should be available — or No. 4 as currently projected, or further down the top 10 because of a Week 17 win against the Eagles, there are pass-rushers, offensive tackles, linebackers and others who will be projected Day 1 starters on a four- or five-win team.
Here are six names to key in now that the Young dream likely is dead:
OT Andrew Thomas, Georgia: The first-team All-American is considered a dominant run blocker because of his strength and ability to move and clear out linebackers. The 6-foot-5, 320-pounder played in 41 career games, with 13 starts at left tackle this season. Instant starter, if he can play on the right side.
LB/S Isaiah Simmons, Clemson: The Giants haven’t drafted a first-round linebacker since they took Carl Banks with the third pick in 1984. No wonder they always have so much trouble covering tight ends — with bargain free agents and late-round draft picks. As long as Simmons is more linebacker and less hybrid Jabrill Peppers, he fills a hole.
CB Jeff Okudah, Ohio State: GM Dave Gettleman — assuming he’s still calling the shots — believes in best available player. Well, that might be Okudah, who can play in the slot or on the perimeter — a huge advantage in today’s matchup-crazed NFL. But the Giants have too many young corners already. They really need to address this need — Janoris Jenkins’ replacement — in free agency.
OT Tristan Wirfs, Iowa: Wirfs does not turn 21 until Jan. 24, yet he already holds weightlifting records in a program known for producing its share of beasts. He was the first true freshman to start at tackle in coach Kirk Ferentz’s 20-year tenure. You will hear “freak athlete” thrown around a lot. But projections will be all over the map based on his football skill.
WR Jerry Jeudy, Alabama: He’s going to be a stud. Pairing Jeudy with Daniel Jones could be like Julio Jones with Matt Ryan. Using a top pick on a wide receiver is questionable asset allocation, especially with so many other team needs and a receiver-heavy draft class. Darius Slayton’s rookie emergence lessens the likelihood. But Golden Tate’s future with the Giants isn’t set in stone.
DL A.J. Epenesa, Iowa: Young isn’t the only pass-rusher in the draft. Just the best. Epenesa is a true 4-3 defensive end — the Giants could change coordinators and schemes in the offseason — who will seal the edge on runs. After 10.5 sacks in a part-time role in 2018, he started slowly in 2019, but has closed with a flourish of 5.5 sacks and three forced fumbles in his last four games.
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