The New York Giants come into the 2022 NFL Draft with several positions of need on both sides of the ball.
However, football experts dictate that it would be better for general manager Joe Schoen to select either an offensive lineman or an edge rusher in the first round.
The Giants ranked 22nd in total sacks during the 2021 regular season with 34.
Likewise, they badly need to improve the protection around quarterback Daniel Jones.
But Schoen isn’t listening to those suggestions, as revealed by ESPN’s Dianna Russini.
I asked Giants GM Joe Schoen if they are insistent on picking offensive line at 5. <we saw how many Giants’staff members they sent to those workouts>
“We are going best player available because of the needs on this roster.”
I’ll have more on NY’s other pick at 7 on ESPN all day.— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) April 28, 2022
When asked if they would get an offensive lineman with the fifth overall selection, Schoen said, “We are going best player available because of the needs on this roster.”
Therefore, they may select other positions, especially safety and linebacker.
There’s also a chance that the best player available at that spot are offensive tackles Ikem Ekwonu or Evan Neal.
Schoen might be playing mind games with the teams that will draft after him to mess up their strategy.
But with the unpredictability of the 2022 draft, the Giants might go for an unconventional decision.
Windfall At Number Seven
The Giants can afford to think loosely at No. 5 because they are one of eight teams with multiple first-round picks.
But they are in a great position because they’re only one of two teams with two picks in the top ten.
If they pick the best player available at No. 5, they could fill a glaring roster hole at No. 7.
Perhaps they are also getting feelers from potential trade partners for the seventh pick.
But given the spots they need to address, it would be better to use both picks unless they are getting an All-Pro player in return.
NEXT: Giants Have A Surprise Guest Announcing Their Top Selection