NY Giants 2023 Draft Picks: Who Did Big Blue Select?
Alright guys, let's dive into the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks! If you're a die-hard Giants fan, you've been on the edge of your seat waiting to see who Big Blue would bring in to bolster the squad. The NFL Draft is always a huge event, filled with hype, speculation, and, of course, some surprises. This year was no different for the Giants, as they looked to address key needs and add some serious talent to their roster. General Manager Joe Schoen and Head Coach Brian Daboll had a plan, and it was fascinating to watch it unfold over the weekend. We're going to break down who they picked, where they picked them, and what it could mean for the team moving forward. So, grab your favorite jersey, settle in, and let's talk Giants draft!
Round 1: The Giants Secure a Game-Changer
When the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks officially kicked off, the anticipation was through the roof. In the first round, at pick #24 overall, the Giants made a splash by selecting Devon Witherspoon, Cornerback from Illinois. Now, Witherspoon isn't just any cornerback; he's widely considered one of the most talented defensive backs in this draft class. He's got the physicality, the ball skills, and the competitive fire that you want in a lockdown corner. For a Giants team that has struggled to find consistent play in the secondary, this pick felt like a massive upgrade. Witherspoon is known for his aggressive style, his ability to play press and zone coverage, and his knack for making plays on the ball. He brings a much-needed dose of toughness and swagger to the defensive backfield. This is exactly the kind of player that can change the complexion of a defense, locking down opposing receivers and making it harder for quarterbacks to find open targets. The coaching staff has to be thrilled with the prospect of integrating a talent like Witherspoon into their defensive scheme. He's not just a body; he's a potential difference-maker who can elevate the play of those around him. We're talking about a guy who earned consensus All-American honors and was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is given to the nation's top defensive back. That kind of pedigree speaks volumes. He brings a serious attitude and a willingness to come up and make tackles in the run game, too, which is crucial for a complete corner. This pick signals that the Giants are serious about building a defense that can contend.
## Round 2: Bolstering the Trenches
Moving into the second round, the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks continued to address areas of need. With pick #57 overall, the Giants snagged Will McDonald IV, Edge Rusher from Iowa State. This is a really exciting pick for Giants fans who want to see more pressure on opposing quarterbacks. McDonald is an explosive athlete with incredible speed off the edge. He possesses a relentless motor and a variety of pass-rushing moves that can give offensive tackles fits. For a Giants team that has been looking for a consistent pass-rushing threat, McDonald could be the answer. He's got the athleticism to be a disruptive force, forcing quarterbacks off their spots and creating opportunities for sacks and tackles for loss. His ability to bend around the corner and get after the QB is something that was clearly a priority for the Giants in this draft. He might need some refinement in his run defense, but his upside as a pass rusher is undeniable. He brings a different dynamic to the defensive line rotation, and pairing him with other talented pass rushers could create a formidable front for opposing offenses. The Giants have been building their defensive line, and McDonald fits the mold of a dynamic playmaker they've been seeking. His college production, especially in terms of tackles for loss and sacks, showcases his potential to make an immediate impact. Getting a player of his caliber at this spot in the draft is a huge win for the team. He’s the type of player who can change the momentum of a game with one big play.
Round 3: Adding Depth and Versatility
As the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks progressed, the team continued to focus on adding talent and depth. In the third round, with pick #68 overall, the Giants selected John Michael Schmitz, Center from Minnesota. This is a crucial pick, especially considering the importance of the offensive line in protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. Schmitz is a highly-rated offensive lineman, known for his strength, intelligence, and leadership. He played center at Minnesota and demonstrated excellent awareness and the ability to make calls at the line of scrimmage. For the Giants, who have been working to solidify their offensive line, Schmitz could be a cornerstone piece. He brings a gritty, physical style of play and a high football IQ, which are essential for success in the trenches. His ability to anchor the offensive line and provide consistent protection is invaluable. He's not just a blocker; he's a leader who can command the offensive line and ensure everyone is on the same page. This pick addresses a key area of need and adds a player who is expected to compete for a starting role immediately. His track record at Minnesota shows he's a reliable and tough player who can handle the demands of the NFL. Getting a center with his potential and leadership qualities is a fantastic move for the Giants' future. He's the kind of player that offensive coordinators dream about having anchoring their line, providing stability and a strong foundation for the offense to build upon.
Round 4: Versatile Talent Joins the Ranks
Continuing their strategic approach with the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks, the team looked to add more versatility and playmaking ability. In the fourth round, with pick #110 overall, they selected Jalin Hyatt, Wide Receiver from Tennessee. Hyatt is an absolute speed demon. He's incredibly fast and possesses deep-threat ability that can stretch any defense vertically. This is a trait that offenses crave, and for the Giants, it adds another dynamic weapon to their receiving corps. Hyatt had a breakout season at Tennessee, showcasing his ability to create separation with his speed and make big plays downfield. He has reliable hands and the athleticism to make contested catches. Adding a receiver with his explosive speed gives Daniel Jones a new downfield option and opens up the playbook considerably. Think about the matchups he can create against slower defensive backs. He forces defenses to respect the deep ball, which can create opportunities underneath for other receivers. His speed is game-changing, and the Giants are betting on him to bring that element to their offense. He's a player who can turn a short pass into a long touchdown with his breakaway speed. This pick shows the Giants are committed to giving their offense more firepower and playmaking potential. He's the kind of player who can electrify a stadium and give opposing defenses headaches trying to contain him. His ability to run away from defenders is a rare and valuable asset in today's NFL.
Round 5: Building the Defense Further
As the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks continued, the focus remained on strengthening the roster across the board. In the fifth round, with pick #172 overall, the Giants chose Eric Gray, Running Back from Oklahoma. Gray is a talented back with good vision, agility, and pass-catching ability. He's a versatile player who can contribute in multiple ways, whether it's running between the tackles, catching passes out of the backfield, or even contributing on special teams. For the Giants, who have been looking to add depth and competition at the running back position, Gray offers a compelling option. He runs with patience, finds cutback lanes effectively, and has the elusiveness to make defenders miss in the open field. His receiving skills out of the backfield are particularly valuable in today's pass-heavy NFL. He can be a reliable outlet for Daniel Jones and add another dimension to the Giants' offensive attack. Gray has shown he can handle a significant workload and is a tough competitor. This pick adds a skilled and versatile player to the running back room, providing depth and potentially pushing for more playing time. He's the kind of player that can wear down a defense over the course of a game with his consistent production and ability to contribute in various ways. His well-rounded game makes him a valuable addition to the Giants' offensive backfield, offering a solid option for both the run and the pass game.
Round 6: Special Teams and Depth
In the sixth round, with pick #180 overall, the Giants added Carryl Brown, Defensive Back from Notre Dame. Brown is a versatile defensive back who can play both cornerback and safety. He brings physicality and a strong tackling ability to the secondary. His experience at Notre Dame playing in a competitive conference and a strong defensive system has prepared him for the next level. Brown's ability to play multiple positions in the defensive backfield gives the Giants flexibility and depth. He’s a player who isn’t afraid to mix it up and make tackles, which is a trait that coaches love to see. His presence adds competition to the defensive backfield and provides another option for defensive coordinator Wink Martindale. He’s a solid depth piece who could develop into a key contributor down the line. His special teams ability also makes him a valuable asset, as players who can contribute on all three phases of the game are highly sought after.
Round 7: Final Picks and Future Potential
As the New York Giants' 2023 NFL Draft picks concluded, the team made their final selections to round out the roster and look towards the future. With pick #240 overall, they selected Mark Cobb, Wide Receiver from East Carolina. Cobb is a speedy receiver who adds depth to the wideout group. He has shown flashes of big-play ability and could be a developmental prospect with the potential to contribute down the line, especially on special teams. His speed gives him a chance to make a name for himself.
Overall, the Giants had a really solid draft, addressing key needs and bringing in a lot of talented players. It'll be exciting to see how these guys develop and contribute to the team's success in the upcoming seasons. What do you guys think of the Giants' draft class? Let us know in the comments below!
