By Michael Stewart/@TheTruthNYG
GM Dave Gettleman and Head Coach Joe Judge in total made three trades within the first three rounds of the 2021 NFL draft that ensured among extra picks in 2022; including another 1st round selection from the Chicago Bears. Now that the dust has cleared, GM Dave Gettleman and Head Coach Joe Judge were back at work during the UDFA phase. Let’s take a look at each UDFA signing and overall grade:
Brett Heggie (C/G-Florida) 6’4/320
Positives
- Versatility
- Very strong lower base
- High Character
- Explosive off the line of scrimmage
- Equally efficient in run blocking and pass protection.
Negatives
- Needs to polish his technique
- Lacks the mobility in open space
- Needs to keep his balance
Heggie overall makeup is highly coveted with his versatility and mean streak combination. The Giants are targeting more OL with the ability to play multiple positions along the offensive line and Heggie certainly fits the bill. GRADE B+
Raymond Johnson (EDGE-Georgia Southern)6’3/270
Positives
- Leadership skills
- Endless motor
- Quick first step off the snap
- Can beat an OL in many ways
- Has the body frame to add more size
Negatives
- Needs more bend off the edge
- Needs more pass rushing moves
- Played against marginal competition
Johnson would need some time to develop and could find himself on the practice squad to work on his overall game at a comfortable pace. Johnson can find himself on the Giants roster by 2022 as part of the rotational DL and be a solid contributor. GRADE B.
Jake Burton (OT-Baylor) 6’6/315
Positives
- Effective in space
- Solid run blocker and pass protector
- Solid finisher with good bend
- Good hand and feet technique
- Has good awareness and fluidity
Negatives
- Has issues with speed rushers
- Lacks foot speed in open space
- Plays upright too much
Burton has durability in his favor and has been productive for Baylor and has the size many NFL team’s can work with. Burton might not have the upside to become a starting OT, however; he does possess the qualities to be a serviceable backup linemen. GRADE C+
I would have liked to have seen the Giants have more signings than three during the UDFA phase, but it remains to be seen if the Giants continue to add players to the roster as we move forward to training camp. Also, keep in mind that the Giants could still consider OG Trai Turner who is still unsigned and has a very impressive resume. Overall; GM Dave Gettleman and Head Coach Joe Judge did a great job evaluating the draft board and being aggressive on several occasions as the draft unfolded. Overall GRADE/B+