The New York Giants held the No. 2 pick in the 2018 NFL Draft and decided to go with Saquon Barkley from Penn State. Was it the right pick?
One of the best value picks of the first round came early as the Giants chose Saquon Barkley out of Penn State with the No. 2 overall pick, shocking no one.
It was no secret that the two sides had interest in each other as Barkley is from nearby Coplay, Penn., and he’s been rocking Giants gear this offseason, but New York needed a running back — and badly.
The junior passed up on his senior year to enter the draft and was the best prospect at the position in this year’s class. He rushed for just 1,271 yards and 18 touchdowns in his final season, a dip from his sophomore production, but his measurables set him apart. He has the potential to be an instant All-Pro.
Barkley will be an instant contributor, but the Giants need to find other offensive options around him. He could get burnt out if the quarterback situation is still shaky and he’s overused, but with vertical threats at tight end and receiver, that shouldn’t be an issue — even with an aging Eli Manning.
There was really no better option at No. 2 for the Giants as Barkley has that home-run ability every time he touches the ball. Pound-for-pound, he may be the strongest player in this class and he’s an athletic freak.
Next: Complete 7-round 2018 NFL Mock Draft
The Giants’ offense will look far better next season with Barkley in the backfield. Next is finding a replacement for Manning.
Grade: A