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After the first day of the NFL Draft, the Jets and Giants wrapped up their drafts yesterday by filling some needs and taking some chances. The Jets added Dwight Lowery a cornerback, Marcus Henry a wide receiver, Nate Garner an offensive tackle and Erik Ainge, the QB from Tennessee and the nephew of Danny Ainge. In many ways, Ainge is similar to Chad Pennington, so it is an interesting pick to say the least.
The Giants took Mario Manningham a wide receiver from Michigan who saw his draft prospects plummet after lying about using pot. Manningham isn’t big, but he has great hands and could become a weapon. They also added Andre’ Woodson, the QB from Kentucky which means the days of the “hefty lefty” are numbered. Bryan Kehl and Jonathan Goff add depth at linebacker while Robert Henderson gives New York another speedy defensive end.
Photo of the NFL Draft stage by AP/Julie Jacobson
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Judging solely by the positions they drafted, the G-Men addressed basically every need. They got the highest-ranked safety in the draft, a CB, a couple of LBs, a burner WR and a DE. Strange pick of that QB from Kentucky, but they have been looking for a decent backup to Manning for a while. It's too early to judge the actual talent. This time last year the popular opinion was the the Giants had a mediocre draft. Then all eight guys made the team and got Superbowl rings. So it remains to be seen.
I was also pleased that the Giants didn't trade Shockey, especially not to the Saints, another contender in the NFC. When the Giants line up on offense this year they'll have Jacobs/Bradshaw/Ward in the backfield, Manning under center, Shockey at TE, Burress and Manningham/Moss/Smith on the outside, Toomer in the slot and the same five offensive linemen who did so well last year. It has the makings of a very potent offense.
Glad to see that the Giants were able to steal Manningham because of the stupidity of the combine. I would have loved to see them grab an offensive lineman, but I love this draft.
JCB
I still think if we can get good value for Shockey, that it wouldn't hurt to test the offense without him. Sure, we sort of lucked into a hot streak without him - but my real issue is whether he'll be able to get into the team's mindset after essentially asking to be traded. Dunno if there's room for the Russel Crowe of the NFL on offense this year.
I agree that if Shockey proves to be a problem the Giants should look to move him, BellG. (preferably not to another NFC contender though) However, I don't think that's going to happen. After last year there's no doubt any longer that it's Eli's huddle and Shockey is just living in it. He saw what happened and he has to have newfound respect for Manning. And if he doesn't shape up and fly right his teammates will whoop his ass. This is a guy who's been to the pro bowl more often than not. Keep him around.