Whether or not you think the New York Giants are in the market for Eli Manning’s successor this spring may have just become irrelevant. Head coach Ben McAdoo, who rarely gets involved in scouting college players, was on hand for Texas Tech’s pro day on Friday and took a special interest in their quarterback, Patrick Mahomes II.
Several sources reported that McAdoo met privately with Mahomes on Thursday night, tipping the Giants draft hand. Most draft mockers believe Mahomes could be selected in either the late first round or early second round in the upcoming NFL Draft.
McAdoo was the only NFL head coach in attendance. Several other teams were represented but McAdoo’s presence has Giant fans thinking. With many of the team’s needs covered in free agency and the draft not offering many options at the few positions they do need, it might be the year they decide to find their next QB.
The Giants have the 23rd overall pick, so if Mahomes’ draft stock holds they will likely have to use their first rounder on him. Or, as in the case of safety Landon Collins two years ago, GM Jerry Reese could trade up to the top of the second round should Mahomes still be available.
So, what do the Giants see in this young man, the son of former MLB pitcher Pat Mahomes?
He has the attitude and the physical talent to cut it in the NFL and, he’s gotten better each year in college. He possesses a strong throwing arm and is extremely mobile. Mahomes has increased his accuracy over time and throws very well on the run.
Draft insider Tony Pauline reported that Mahomes fared very well in his workout:
“He tossed about 70 NFL-type passes and looked very good….there were a few deep misses but from what I’m told they were as much a result of weary-legged receivers not being able to run to the ball.
Mahomes lined up under center and took snaps, something he rarely did in college. He handled the ball well and there were no bobbled snaps. His footwork looked much improved dropping into the pocket from under center.
Mahomes still has a lot of room for improvement, but I’m told he’s made incredible strides since his combine/pro day training started.”
With the franchise’s future on the line, McAdoo perhaps wanted to witness this with his own eyes. Mahomes would be tied to his future as well. Now comes the question whether Mahomes will even be available for the Giants to select at No. 23. He may rocket of the draft order after this showing.
How different would it be for the Giants to have a mobile QB for once? Also, how long will the Giants be willing to wait for him to unseat Eli? Do they have plan to give Eli an early exit? Or even platoon him in the final years of his Giant contract? We’ll see.