I have chosen 10 of what I consider to be the most reputable recently updated mock drafts this week. Looking at the selections there is an obvious consensus when it comes to what mock drafters think the New York Giants will do when the 2011 NFL Draft rolls around this April. The majority opinion right now is that the Giants will draft an offensive tackle, as six of the 10 mocks selected went with a tackle for the Giants at No. 19 in the first round.
The most-often selected player for the Giants was USC offensive tackle Tyron Smith (full profile), who was the choice in three of these mocks. Boston College offensive tackle Anthony Castonzo was the choice in two of the mocks.
Smith is a junior, and the primary question with him will be how quickly he can be ready to play since he is currently an under-sized 290 pounds. Few, however, question his upside as a potential long-time NFL left tackle. For the Giants the bigger question about Smith -- if he is the guy General Manager Jerry Reese eventually targets -- is whether he will actually be available at No. 19. More and more, you see Smith being thought of as a top 15 selection. SB Nation's Mocking The Draft makes the case that Smith should be taken in the top 10.
Smith is a silky smooth athlete with tremendous upside. He is a former tight end with quick feet and superb balance. His quick feet allow him to adjust to counter-moves employed by the rusher. At 6-foot-5, 291 pounds he has the frame to add extra bulk and not impact his athletic ability. I want to note that Smith just turned 20 years old which means that he still has time to fill out and grow into his frame. The NFL loves guys with upside and Smith is oozing with potential.
Mock Draft Updates
ESPN (Kiper) -- Nate Solder, OT, Colorado
ESPN (McShay) -- Tyron Smith, OT, USC
Draft Countdown -- Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois
Ourlads -- Tyron Smith
Draft Tek -- Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama
CBS Sports (Reuter) -- JImmy Smith, CB, Colorado
CBS Sports (Rang) -- Tyron Smith
Pro Football Talk -- Anthony Castonzo, OT, Boston College
NE Patriots Draft -- JJ Watt, DE, Wisconsin
Walter Football -- Anthony Castonzo