With the Giants overachieving in 2022, the expectation in 2023 is to at least get to the point they did last year.
The Giants sophomore class needs to take the next step to accomplish this goal and then some. While this is far from the only thing that needs to happen for the Giants to succeed, it is undoubtedly one of the main things.
Last year the Giants drafted 11 players. Of those 11 players, 9 of them have the chance to play a significant role on the 2023 Giants.
The Giants’ two first-round picks from a year ago absolutely need to improve this season.
Kayvon Thibodeaux had a solid rookie year, but as the number 5 pick, he needs to take the next step in his 2nd season. This is especially true considering Azeez Ojulari’s injury history and the fact that the edge rusher group does not have a lot of depth. On the opposite side of the ball, Evan Neal needs to get himself to just a solid tackle in his 2nd year.
It’s no secret that Neal struggled in his rookie year, and as Giants fans know better than anyone, having a bad tackle can cripple an offense. Nobody should give up on Neal, but his improving his game will have a huge impact on the Giants’ 2023 success.
It’s not just the Giants’ 2022 first-round picks that will play big roles this year, though.
Wan’Dale Robinson
The Giants took Kentucky Wide Receiver Wan’Dale Robinson in the 2nd round, and he was playing well until tearing his ACL.
It is unknown when he’ll return, but Robinson will play significant snaps upon returning.
Joshua Ezeudu and Cordale Flott
The Giants had 2 3rd round picks and took UNC Offensive Lineman Joshua Ezeudu and LSU corner Cordale Flott. Both these players started games last year and will compete to once again in training camp.
Ezeudu will compete for the right guard spot, while Flott will compete at nickel corner. Daniel Bellinger was the Giants’ next pick in the 4th round. While he will be the number 2 tight end behind Darren Waller, he will still play a ton this season.
Dane Belton
Joe Schoen’s next 4th round pick was Dane Belton, who will compete to start next to Xavier McKinney this offseason.
The last position that will more than likely feature a 2022 draft pick starting is inside linebacker.
Micah McFadden
Micah McFadden was the Giants 5th round pick and started games 7 games last year. He will battle it out with the Giants 6th round pick, Darrian Beavers, who was flashing in training camp last year before tearing his ACL.
No matter what way you slice it, all of these players will have significant roles on the 2023 Giants.
Daniel Jones is living up to his contract. Saquon Barkley’s contract situation is getting resolved. The coaching staff continues to get the most out of this team.
Hell, the Giants’ 2023 draft class is playing well. These things must happen for the Giants to reach the postseason for the 2nd year in a row.
Make no mistake about it, though; the Giants 2022 draft class is just as important as the rest of those things.
Photo: GMen HQ
