Mock drafts are too fun not to do at least one for 2023. Via the PFF mock draft simulator I completed a three-round mock draft, including trades. While the first night of the draft would be underwhelming (you’ll see), day two of the draft might make up for that disappointment.
Projected trade: 2nd round, pick 37 (via Seattle)
Emmanuel Forbes, CB, Mississippi State
The Seahawks were willing to part ways with the 52nd overall pick along with their 37th pick and move up to the Giants selection at 25. In a draft that many argue lacks high-end talent, to move back 12 spots and get an additional second-round pick would be hard to pass up, allowing the Giants to have three picks in the top 57.
Forbes can be looked at as a polarizing prospect due to his miniscule frame, but no one can argue his playmaking ability. His six pick sixes in his college career backs that up. A. guy who has shown he can be successful in man coverage, despite the Mississippi State scheme, who always seems to find himself around the ball is a perfect match for Wink Martindale’s defense.
2nd round, pick 52 (via Seattle): Joe Tippmann, C, Wisconsin
Paul Alexander, former NFL offensive line coach, who’s been working with Tippmann recently said the Wisconsin prospect is so proficient at Center they’ve moved on to training at Guard. Tippmann can bring versatility to the Giants offensive line and shows off his impressive athleticism by getting to the second level of the defense in no time. If you google him doesn’t he just look like a guy you want to see barreling over defenders for the Giants?
3rd round, pick 65 (via Houston): Michael Wilson, WR, Stanford
Another trade down scenario where I moved back eight spots and picked up an extra fourth-round selection (pick 104). At 6’2 and 209 pounds Wilson can add some needed size to the Giants receiver room. He’s not going to fly by defenders, but Wilson excels with his route running and separation in the short and middle area of the field. He can grow into a nice security blanket for Daniel Jones when he needs eight or ten yards on third down.
3rd round, pick 89: Jammie Robinson, Safety. Florida State
Robinson almost never misses a tackle and possesses superior ability to change direction. He’s done it all in his college career, playing near the line of scrimmage, lining up in the slot, and defending from deep. The Giants have a hole at Safety with Julian Love leaving in free agency, and Robinson along with Xavier McKinney could pair up to be a formidable safety duo for years to come. I’d love to see how Wink Martindale would deploy the versatile Florida State prospect.