In order to bolster their pass rush, the New York Giants made a significant trade this offseason when they acquired Brian Burns from the Carolina, but the search for more quality at the position is never done.
In 2024 and beyond, the Giants should have a formidable combination in Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux, but their scouts are also keeping an eye on a couple mid- to late-round projects who might turn into reliable NFL players.
The Draft is on the minds of the New York Giants
At the Michigan Pro Day on Friday, DE Braiden McGregor really had a meeting with the Giants.
With his current Day 3 draft grade, McGregor allows the Giants to invest a low-value draft selection if he is still available. He has a nice frame to continue developing once he gets to the NFL.
McGregor had five sacks and 28 pressures in the previous season, but he was a vital member of a top-tier Michigan defense, so he has a lot of potential. McGregor, who stands 6’5′′ and weighs 257 pounds, has enough size to contribute at the next level, but he might use some work on his play strength.
Teams will value his toughness and frame, which are important developing characteristics for pass-rushers, according to NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.
“McGregor is a good stand-up rusher due to his stature and length. Although his toughness and build will appeal to teams, he is not a natural knee bender when attacking. Improved hand placement in run defense and hand skill in pass rush are areas that need attention. Although he lacks the twitch or short-range quickness to overpower opponents, McGregor may need to continue building play strength to become a more determined opponent and a backup edge in odd or even fronts.
The Giants can target some high-upside, developmental players in the late rounds in an attempt to uncover value, considering they already have their main pass-rusher in place.
