The New York Giants have landed a very intriguing NFL Draft prediction.
The New York Giants have several glaring needs heading into the NFL Draft: cornerback, right guard, defensive tackle and wide receiver.
Considering the Giants currently only have two picks over the first two days, it will be difficult for New York to fill all of those holes, but John Harbaugh and Co. must do their best to ensure that all of the problem areas are plugged.
Right now, the Giants do not have a true starting right guard, so they almost certainly will be selecting one at some point next week.
But could New York take the draft's best tackle and convert him into a guard?
That's what Chad Reuter of NFL.com is predicting in his latest mock draft, as he has the Giants nabbing Miami offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa with the fifth overall selection.
Francis Mauigoa. Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images."This pick reminds me of Washington's selection of Brandon Scherff at this same spot in 2015," Reuter wrote. "Scherff played tackle at Iowa, but it was clear he possessed the strength and tenacity to be an excellent run blocker as well as provide sturdy pass protection. He ended up being a five-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro at guard over 10 NFL seasons. Mauigoa presents similar aptitudes, so he could start at right guard for the Giants as a rookie and move back outside in the future if needed."
This would be a pretty interesting route for New York to take, but certainly like it a heck of a lot more than selecting Jeremiyah Love, Sonny Styles or Caleb Downs at No. 5.
Yes, a top-five pick is a bit early to address the guard position, but again, the Giants have a massive need there, and protecting Jaxson Dart should be their top priority.
Plus, as Reuter noted, Mauigoa could always kick outside in the future or if there is an injury. Andrew Thomas has been very injury prone, so it's a distinct possibility.
Mauigoa has fantastic size at 6-foot-6, 330 pounds and possesses tremendous strength. And while he may not be the most athletic offensive lineman in the world, it's certainly good enough, especially for his size.
While I would prefer the Giants to trade down and take a cornerback in Round 1 and then circle back around to snatch a guard in the second round, it's hard to argue against the idea of taking Mauigoa at No. 5 and moving him inside.
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