With only two days left until the NFL draft, speculation and rumors are swirling around potential trades and draft picks. The New York Giants had attempted to trade up to the No. 1 spot and land Miami QB Cam Ward, but their efforts were thwarted by the Tennessee Titans. Now, the Giants face a tough decision at No. 3, with standout players like Penn State’s Abdul Carter and Colorado’s Travis Hunter likely available.
The position the New England Patriots find themselves in at No. 4 is less favorable due to a drop-off after Hunter and Carter in the draft class. Had the Giants lost to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 17, they would be in the Titans’ position at No. 1. Similarly, if the Patriots had lost to the Buffalo Bills’ backups in Week 18, they might have had more leverage in the draft.
On the offensive line front, the draft class is expected to benefit from a group of young prospects. With players like LSU OT Will Campbell and Georgia C Jared Wilson under 21 years old, there is potential for growth and development in the NFL. Teams are evaluating these young linemen for their physical maturity and future impact on the field.
The Houston Texans are another team looking to make moves in the draft, particularly in the offensive line department. With a need for help on the line, the Texans may target players like Campbell, Membou, and Banks early in the draft. Having multiple picks on Day 2 gives them flexibility to potentially move up and secure their desired players.
Jalon Walker, a standout defensive prospect, has drawn attention from teams for his versatility and playmaking abilities. Despite his smaller stature compared to traditional NFL edge rushers, Walker’s skill set and potential make him an intriguing prospect. Teams are weighing whether to draft him in the first round or wait until the second round.
A GM’s evaluation of Texas OT Kelvin Banks Jr. sheds light on his potential draft position and attributes. Banks, known for his performance against Georgia’s Jalon Walker, is considered a top prospect at the left tackle position. Despite some concerns following losses to Walker, Banks is still projected to go high in the draft, potentially to teams like the Raiders, Saints, Bears, or 49ers.
As teams finalize their strategies leading up to the draft, trade discussions and evaluations of prospects continue to shape the landscape. The Denver Broncos and Jacksonville Jaguars are among the teams exploring different options to improve their rosters. With the draft quickly approaching, each decision made by teams will have a significant impact on the future of their franchises.