2011 NFL Draft: New York Giants Top 15 Prospects

March 2, 2011

NEW YORK – The closer we get to the NFL Draft in April, the more analysis you will read about or watch on your television. What we have done here today, is to take the top 15 draft prospects for the New York Giants and list them below. The player names will be in no particular order. Now when I say top 15 prospect, what I mean is information floating around the internet and mock drafts everywhere. Also, included are main stream media breakdowns and nygreporter member input on the area they see as having the most need. All of this information is current as of today 3-2-11.

I have not changed my mind about drafting a true OL/C or LB in round one, although the DT position is starting to look awfully good too. I do not think the team will take a RB or CB in the first round. However, I do think both of those positions will be addressed within the first five rounds. Which of the 21 free agents should the team sign? You have to ask yourself, is the need at LB greater then the need for a new CB? Is filling in a blatant weak spot on the offensive line at Center, a bigger need then getting another RB? Well, I’ll tell you that RB is going to be an issue soon. What the Giants need in my diagnosis is a middle bear. You have Brandon Jacobs as the papa bear big and strong. Then you have Bradshaw as the smaller type RB, what we need now is the middle sized one at 6’0 230 pounds. RB Mikel LaShoure seems to fit that mold perfectly physically but a round one pick?

I love most of the changes that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has made. I extremely dislike the changes made to the NFL Draft however. Starting the 1st round of the NFL Draft on a Thursday is a fan failure. Go back to the original format of having it over the weekend. Make it convenient for the working man and family man to get inside Radio City Music Hall with his kids or watch it on TV live. If the CBA talks breakdown for some reason, the NFL Draft will be the highlight of a lockout laden season for many fans. The NFL Combine coverage is great as usual by the way.

As I have mentioned in the past, everyone has an opinion. What you have below is an honest assessment and pool of players of whom I expect one, to be the New York Giants top pick this year. Unless the team makes some drastic transactions for players at certain positions this off season, I would venture to say that the player who will be at training camp in Albany is listed below.

Let’s take a look at the top 15 prospect names and positions.

1. Akeem Ayers, LB – 6’4″ 255 pounds – This guy seems to be one of the top 5 fan favorite picks. You see Ayers name all over the boards but I’m not sure he will be around come the 19th pick the Giants have in round one.

2. Mike Pouncey, OL/C – 6’4″ 310 pounds – Pouncey is a solid player who would also fill a need at the Center position. The G-Men don’t take offensive linemen in the first round very often so this might be a stretch.

3. Tyron Smith, OT – 6’5″ 285 pounds – This guy seems to be a big pick among the draft “experts”. I do not see the Giants taking a OT in the first round when the team has a handful to workout already.

4. Mark Ingram, RB – 5’10” 215 pounds – Ingram comes from a football family and was named the 2009 Heisman Trophy winner. There are a ton of people who think this guy will be one heck of an NFL player. He is the highest rated RB in the draft. Would the Giants trade up for him? Possibly.

5. Anthony Castonzo, OT – 6’7″ 305 pounds – Castonzo is another main stream media favorite. I just don’t see the Giants taking another OT in round one unless they plan on converting him to OL/C.

6. Nate Solder, OT – 6’8″ 314 pounds – Solder is a mix between fan favorite and media pick. He is a huge man and will certainly help out any NFL offensive line, once he gets the pro game down.

7. Nick Fairley, DT – 6’4″ 298 pounds – This is my long shot pick. The Giants would have to give up about 3 picks total to move up and grab Fairley. Getting Fairley is very unlikely to happen but an exciting prospect anyway. He is the top ranked DT in the draft and some would argue that he is the best player available in the entire NFL Draft.

8. Justin Houston, LB – 6’3″ 260 pounds – This is a new guy on my radar and someone the fans have pointed out to me. The Giants are looking for a LB and if this guy is rated high on their boards, Jerry Reese will surely grab him if he’s available. He looks to be a possible hybrid player.

9. Jimmy Smith, CB – 6’2″ 205 pounds – Smith is considered the third best CB in the draft. He has good size and comes from a good program. I’m not sure the team will take a CB in round one.

10. Brandon Harris, CB – 5’11” 195 pounds – Harris is right behind Smith on the talent chart and if Big Blue takes him in the first round I would be surprised.

11. Aldon Smith, LB – 6’4″ 258 pounds – This is one of the quite guys, staying just below the radar but a guy who could help the Giants. The G-men might have to pull the trigger and grab this kid.

12. Prince Akumamara, CB – 6’0″ 205 pounds – Just like with Fairley, the Giants would have to move up to get the Prince before their 19th pick came around. CB Patrick Peterson should be gone well before this guy too.

13. Corey Liuget, DT – 6’3″ 300 pounds – The 2011 NFL Draft is stacked at the DT position. The  talent in round one might be too deep to pass on. The team seems to be preparing for changes at the DT spot this year too over free agency.

14. Marcell Dareus, DT – 6’3″ 309 pounds – Dareus will probably be gone by the 19th pick but you can bet the Giants will take him if he is still around. This guy will plug up the middle for years.

15. Stefen Wisniewski, OL/C – 6’3″ 313 pounds – This is a favorite pick of mine. Some think he will drop to the Giants in round two. I hope he does drop that low because he is a 10 year NFL Center from everything I’ve read. If all 14 names above were taken, do you grab him?

Out of all of the 15 players listed above, please tell me who you would like to see most. Players like Fairly are a long shot, so try to stay reasonable.

RD – nygreporter.com – 1 year anniversary 3-6-11

Please support the Eric LeGrand charity walk this June 4, 2011! Check it out at http://www.awalktobelieve.org


New York Giants Face Trap Game

October 14, 2010

The New York Giants, looking to increase their first winning streak in a year, face the NFL’s punching bag of the last few seasons, the Detroit Lions (1-4), at home in the new Meadowlands Stadium. Easy matchup, one might think. That is where a mistake can be made. As I said, this is a trap game.

The Lions, although having only one win in the season, have more fight in them than meets the eye. Just looking at the games this season, out of the 4 losses, it is very easy to see that those games were not decided until the very end.

In the season opener against Chicago, a blown call nullified a Calvin Johnson touchdown that would most likely assure the win for Detroit.

Then you move on to analyze the Eagles game, and the story continues. The Lions scored a touchdown with 1:55 left, made the two-point conversion, putting the game at 35-32, then on the ensuing kickoff they recovered an onside kick. They were not able to capitalize on that, but again the game was decided on the final seconds.

Against Green Bay, a team that is supposed to be one of the finest in the NFC, once again Detroit was able to push the game until the fourth quarter, the final score being 28-26. These three games could have easily gone either way, and Detroit could be, say, a 3-2 team, just like our beloved Giants.

With that in mind, it is paramount to stay focused and duly prepare for this game. As it is said quite frequently in this organization, “every game is important“. The way the Giants have been playing is impressive and inspiring, however, paraphrasing Antrel Rolle, it is always better to win three in a row than two in a row.

 

Saulo Padua – nygreporter.com


A Journey for 9/11, George Martin Unstoppable

September 11, 2010

NEW YORK – Today is September 11, 2010. Exactly nine years ago to the day, the United States endured the worst tragedy in American history. The pieces of which are still being picked up to this day. Either emotionally, physically or literally, we have all been changed by the experience. I keep the families and friends of those loved ones lost in my prayers. I personally knew two people who died in the World Trade Center on September 11.

This topic technically falls into the “charity” category of the site but I do not want you to think of it that way. The people who receive help and benefit from these services deserve to be taken care of. I know that I am not alone in my feelings on this subject. Nine years later and the towers still aren’t re-built yet, that doesn’t mean the men and women should be neglected over being forgotten.

Former New York Giants defensive lineman, George Martin, has been an unstoppable force in helping the 9/11 first responders. He has continued to step up and take action for the people who risked their lives to save others. These are some of the bravest Americans any of us will ever know. I can think of no greater honor for Mr. Martin to receive, then the title of true American hero for everything he has done and continues to do.

George Martin will be holding his 2nd annual walk on October 17, 2010 where volunteers will walk from the George Washington Bridge (Fort Lee NJ side) to Fairleigh Dickinson University in Hackensack. Registration begins in Fort Lee at 8AM EST. There is more information to peruse on the website. I hope you will take a moment to click the link at the bottom of this story and find out how you can help. The nygreporter fully supports George Martin and this incredible charity. Never Forget!

Will you be attending the “Journey for 9/11” walk on October 17, 2010 or contributing in some other way?

RD – nygreporter.com

CLICK ME TO GO TO GEORGE MARTIN’S, A JOURNEY FOR 9/11 WEBSITE

Here are some fun facts straight from the Journey for 9/11 website about George Martin’s inaugural walk across the country.



Possible NFL Schedule Change; 16 to 18 Games

August 25, 2010

Well hey there New York Giants fans and NYGReporter Supporters (has a nice ring to it huh?), no this article is not specifically Giants related, it effects the entire league. So, I am stepping outside my usual shell and reporting on a larger scale. Well, not so much reporting, more addressing. The difference? Reporting I might say “The NFL is considering changing the schedule from 16 to 18 games” (which it is), but in addressing that I am going to say “The NFL should change the schedule from 16 to 18 games”. See the difference?

While this almost seems like a thesis statement (do you like the scholarly new college goer wording?) it is not. However, I do strongly believe that in order for the National Football League to progress forward it is necessary to expand to 18 games. And here’s why:

  1. Preseason Games: There are too many of them! Everyone knows the 3rd one counts the most, but none of them actually count at all and considering 3 Giants have had head injuries in this preseason alone I think we can all do without two of them.
  2. Injuries: Everyone keeps saying it will create more, but did anyone stop to think it will create less? Well not exactly, but it may give guys enough time to get back, especially if the season still starts the same date it will allow two extra weeks of healing time. Just a thought.
  3. Competitiveness: If we push more division games toward the end of the season it will ensure competition. Plus, who knows maybe it will allow some bubble teams to make up ground.
  4. NFL Expansion: Everyone knows Goodell’s plan to bring the NFL world wide, the extra games could mean an extra bye week or even just more time to go more places.
  5. Competing with other Leagues: No, no other football league has a chance, but the MLB and NBA and NHL all have longer seasons and less offseason waiting around time. I know the waiting builds suspense but right around now I just don’t want to wait any longer for football and the thought that I could be watching games that matter is enticing.

So anyways, this is simply my opinion, I don’t claim to be an expert on the matter but from a fan’s perspective, I would like to see more hard hitting, meaningful football. ESPN reports that owners are “eagar” while the players “aren’t so sure”. There is a lot that goes into this change. Ultimately, I wish we would all focus on the collective bargaining agreement rather than the schedule. Schedule changes are aimed to take place in 2012, the bargaining agreement is due up this year. Prioritize league, prioritize.

Josh Berman – nygreporter.com


nygreporter Sports Special: Alex Rodriguez 600th HR

August 8, 2010

Hello Sports Fans,

In our second segment of the “NYG Reporter Sports Special” (major global sports news), we take a look at a truly rare feat in sports history. Four days ago in the Bronx, New York Yankees 3B Alex Rodriguez, hit his 600th home run out of the park, in the first inning against Shawn Marcum and the Toronto Blue Jays. He finally did it after the longest drought between HR’s for the No.600 group members with 46 at-bats between HR’s (his 17th of the season). As if written for a made for TV movie, he hit home run No.600 exactly 3 years to the day from when he hit No.500. Spooky stuff huh? He will need to keep that 100 HR per 3 year pace going to become the king, something he could realistically achieve in 6 or 7 seasons.

I am a Yankee fan and I was happy that Alex hit that home run in Yankee stadium (monument park to be exact). The ballpark needed something to cheer for as 2010 has been particularly hard on the Yankee family. Because both owner George Steinbrenner and announcer Bob Sheppard, passed away within days of each other during the summer of 2010.

Alex became just the seventh player in baseball history to reach the No.600 plateau. He was also the youngest player ever to achieve this benchmark at 35 years old, which he had just turned a week earlier. It is hard to believe that A-Rod has played 17 seasons in the major leagues.

I wanted to wait a few days before I covered this historical accomplishment because of the backlash I expect. Everyone here at the nygreporter would like to say Congrats to Alex! I think it is a shame that the steroid era has tarnished this accomplishment in some writers minds. Most fans of the game will be rooting for Alex to do well but almost all of them still shake their head when the topic of steroids comes up. Alex was a man about the situation and admitted it but it is still something that will follow him where ever he goes. I say it is in the past and everyone should leave the man alone and let him do his job.

If you take a look at the all-time home run list below, you will see that Rodriguez is only nine home runs away from taking sole possession of sixth place by surpassing Sammy Sosa. This is something I think A-Rod is more then capable of doing this year. However, he will have to wait until next year to take over Ken Griffey Jr and the fifth spot at 630 home runs. Again, something that A-Rod is very capable of doing. For a guy who is clearly aging well, A-Rod might be able to play another decade.

Rodriguez was originally drafted by the Seattle Mariners in 1993 and he was born in New York.

Most Home Runs All-time as of 8/8/10:

1. Barry Bonds – 762 HR’s

2. Hank Aaron – 755 HR’s

3. Babe Ruth – 715 HR’s

4. Willie Mays – 660 HR’s

5. Ken Griffey Jr. – 630 HR’s

6. Sammy Sosa – 609 HR’s

7. Alex Rodriguez – 600 HR’s

8. Frank Robinson – 586 HR’s

9. Mark McGwire – 583 HR’s

10. Jim Thome – 577 HR’s

Do you think 3B Alex Rodriguez will end up as the all-time home run king by the end of his career? Will he hit 763 home runs?

Alex Rodriguez awards received:

1996 – AL Batting Champion

2001 – AL Home Run Champion

2002 – AL Home Run Champion, AL RBI Leader, AL Gold Glove-SS, AL Hank Aaron Award

2003 – AL MVP, AL Home Run Champion, AL Gold Glove-SS, AL Hank Aaron Award

2005 – AL MVP, AL Home Run Champion

2007 – AL MVP, AL Home Run Champion, AL RBI Leader, AL Hank Aaron Award

2009 – World Series Champion

1996-2009 – 10-time Silver Slugger award winner

1996-2010 – 13-time All-Star roster member

RD – nygreporter.com

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NYG Reporter Sports Special: Edition 0002


Just Talking About New York Giants Football

July 21, 2010

Hello Giants Fans!

Things have been extremely quiet in the football world lately, not including the usual Brett Favre chatter of course. I took a little mini-break during this quiet time and figured I’d enjoy the peace while it lasts. We haven’t heard any New York Giants news in a week but I anticipate this week to heat up by Friday. The Giants first round pick, DE Jason Pierre-Paul, still hasn’t signed with the team and that is something that can happen at any moment. Their second round pick, Linval Joseph has yet to sign also. The team is now only 10 days away from the beginning of training camp in Albany, New York.

Kenny, Kenny, Kenny. What is going on with Giants star safety Kenny Phillips? This is a question that has been lingering, like a thorn in my mind. I cannot overemphasize how important having Kenny Phillips on the field would be for Big Blue. He is a game changer and a very good athlete. If the front office has been coy about his status and he returns full boar, then the Giants have quietly put together the best safety tandem in the NFL.

Time heals all wounds they say, so I’m anxious to see how pro bowl DE Osi Umenyiora performs in 2010. The front office has clearly made a statement by drafting rookie DE Jason Pierre-Paul. I’m not sure why Giants writers feel the need to include this fact when Osi’s name is brought up. I think I understand why. Osi if you’re reading this, tell me if it makes sense to you. Giants fans still have Osi ranked the number one DE in their minds. Not everyone feels this way but a good portion of them do. The writers and fans haven’t given DE Justin Tuck the reigns completely yet and still know what you’re capable of. Osi is young and has had ample time to recover from his injury a couple of years ago.

I’m extremely curious to learn what defense new DC Perry Fewell intends to use. I found it promising that he was experimenting during minicamp this year. Some have mentioned a tampa 2 defense and others have said he will switch to a 3-4 defense. I’m not sure about those drastic changes but I would anticipate those scenarios to all be a part of the arsenal Fewell intends to employ. This guy looks like he mixes it up and keeps opposing offenses guessing. I do however expect him to be more aggressive then former DC Sheridan was. You cannot blame a guy for attacking when his back is against the wall and I think if Sheridan had done that a few times, he might still have his job. Probably not but you never know.

What I’m about to tell you is extremely disturbing, parental discretion is advised. Former Giants safety CC “Can’t Cover” Brown has come out in the news and said that the New York media controls the New York Giants. Really CC? Why would you want to go there? We understand your fighting to put food on the table in Detroit but let’s be honest, you had a poor year in 2009. In fact, the entire team has a poor year and yes, you were a part of that team. The New York Giants are one of the classiest organizations in all of sports with a deep history and tradition. You owe the team, front office, owners and the coaches an apology. I could have taken a very mean angle on this topic but I want to give CC the benefit of the doubt, because a lot of what happened last season was not his fault.

That’s all for now, let us know what you think in the comment area below. Be sure to check out the NYG Reporter “LIVE FROM NYG TRAINING CAMP” special in the near future.

RD – nygreporter.com

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