Big Blue View
Do they need to find a running mate for Malik Nabers?
The New York Giants have new quarterbacks in Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston. Free agency, though, did not bring any significant additions to the play-making arsenal at Wilson’s and Winston’s disposal.
The Giants did, somewhat surprisingly, bring Darius Slayton back. That was a win because his loss would have left a hole. The additions of L’il Jordan Humphrey and Zach Pascal might help around the margins, but neither is a difference-maker.
Can the Giants find play-making help at wide receiver in the draft if two-way star Travis Hunter is not available to them? Do they even really need to add to the wide receiver position?
Let’s look at some of the Day 2 and Day 3 options.
Additions: L’il Jordan Humphrey, Zach Pascal
Losses: Gunner Olszewski
Roster: Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, Wan’Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Ihmir Smith-Marsette, Bryce Ford-Wheaton, L’il Jordan Humphrey, Zach Pascal, Montrell Washington
Draft need: At best — A playmaker who could become WR2 opposite Malik Nabers, or add more explosive playmaking that Wan’Dale Robinson; At least — A depth player who could challenge Jalin Hyatt as WR4.
Jayden Higgins, Iowa State — Higgins would bring a body type the Giants don’t really have at 6-4⅛, 214 pounds. Check out the Steve Smith/James Palmer scouting report on Higgins:
Dane Brugler of The Athletic has a Round 2 grade on Higgins in his draft guide. He says:
With the body control and grace of a former point guard, Higgins has the smooth athleticism that translates to his route running, and he is more than just a possession target — even if his tape doesn’t show a dangerous playmaker after the catch. He is a big, strong target who is natural at tracking and adjusting to the football, regardless of the placement or coverage (just three drops on 210 targets at Iowa State). Overall, Higgins is an ascending height-weight-speed athlete with the physicality and catch radius to be a productive NFL starter as he continues developing his route/release precision. His game is similar to what Nico Collins put on tape at Michigan.
For what it’s worth, I loved Collins coming out of Michigan. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the third round in 2021, and with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons has far outplayed his draft position.
Waldman says:
Seeking a perimeter receiver who can win when thrown open and even erase some inaccuracies with targets in tight coverage? Higgins is near the top of the list.
If Higgins’ hand strength were a little better when defenders swat their hands on his hands and/or the ball, Higgins would easily be the best pass catcher in this class. As is, he’s still an asset.
Higgins has good releases from the line that should only get better. The same is true with his setups near the top of his stems and breaks. His route running is effective and...
