For several weeks, there was no consistency when it came to the New York Giants and their 2021 NFL Draft projections.
Mock drafts were all over the map at pick No. 11 with the Giants selecting various wide receivers, cornerbacks, edge rushers and even some offensive linemen and tight ends.
However, in recent days a trend has begun to emerge. Most seem to believe the Giants will target Alabama wide receiver Jaylen Waddle with their first-round pick and the folks over at Pro Football Focus share similar views.
For the second time this month, PFF has mocked Waddle to the Giants at No. 11.
11. NEW YORK GIANTS: WR JAYLEN WADDLE, ALABAMA
Waddle is the first Alabama wide receiver off the board in part due to the deep speed that showed up in his averaging 18.9 yards per reception over his three-year career. Waddle was actually the highest-graded Alabama receiver on their loaded 2018 team. He adds a vertical weapon for QB Daniel Jones, who was quietly one of the best downfield passers in the league a year ago.
As PFF alludes, the pick of Waddle comes with fellow Alabama wide receiver DeVonta Smith still on the board (No. 15 to the New England Patriots).
Not only do the Giants select Waddle over Smith in this scenario, Michigan edge rusher Kwity Paye, Miami edge rusher Gregory Rousseau and Florida State cornerback Asante Samuel Jr. were all also on the board.
If this is indeed how things shake out come April, general manager Dave Gettleman would receive an intense mixed reaction. On one side, you have fans and experts who insist Waddle is their best fit. On the other side, you have Smith, who many believe is a game-changing prospect and the best wide receiver in the draft.
