NY Giants - Draft Day

With the exit of Plaxico Burress, the NY Giants lack the big power forward WR who can trouble opposing defenses. Burresss had the power and speed to break tackles and his height proved a distinct advantage in the end zone.

His very presence also distracted defenses and allowed the Giants relentless running game to flourish. Going 11-1 (or thereabouts) with Burress in the 2008 regular season, the Giants lost a bunch before eventually falling to the Eagles in the 1st round of the playoffs after losing the services of Burress. And they did look quiet lackluster against the Eagles who pinned down the running game from the outset.

Going into the 2009 season, the Giants number 1 priority would've be to acquire a WR somewhat similar to Burress. My first impression was the Giants could've pursued Free Agent (FA) T.J. Houshmanzadeh (who later signed up with the Seahawks).

Now they have to look to trading for either Braylon Edwards (Browns) or Anquan Boldin (Cardinals). For what its worth, my money would be on Boldin. But much of the media talk have surrounded around Edwards. Edwards had a great season two years ago, but he drops the ball a little too much for my liking. It has to do with his concentration and the Giants probably feel that it is something which can be worked and improved upon. At a lower cost. Cos Boldin would definitely come at a higher asking price. Boldin was a monster last year (even after the concussion). But if there is anything to go by what Larry Fitzgerald (fellow cardinal WR) has to say in his interview with Dan Patrick found here - ( http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/danpatrick/listenlive.player.html?file=http://ht.cdn.turner.com/si/danpatrick/audio/2009/04/24/DP-Larry_Fitzgerald-04-24-09_Interview.mp3
)
then it looks like we'll be seeing Boldin in a cardinal uniform this season.

In any case, the Giants would have to find a way to trade for either of these two WR's given their availability. Amani Toomer, although still reliable, is not the force he used to be. Steve Smith is a possession receiver and Dominic Hixon needs a little more time to learn the trade to be a deep threat and would only be more effective with a premier WR on the other side. It allows Eli more options.

The Giants drafted WR Hakeem Nicks from North Carolina in their first round. So its obvious they are looking to boost their receiving corps although I haven't looked at the scouting reports on Nicks.
In addition they bolstered their offensive line by drafting TE Travis Beckum and OT William Beatty and upgraded their defenses/pass rush, by drafting OLB Clint Sintim. With the departure of Derrick Ward (who signed with Tampa Bay Buccs) breaking up the devastating trio of Earth, Wind and Fire, the Giants drafted RB Andre Brown who hopefully will provide adequate support in the running game.

With the return of Osi Umenyiora and with a possible deep roster of diverse WR's and strong RB's this could turn out to be a good year for the Giants. Can't wait for August!

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