Deshaun Watson's Injury: Implications for the Giants' NFL Draft Strategy

The New York Giants' NFL Draft strategy will be significantly impacted by the recent news of Deshaun Watson's season-ending knee injury. Watson, the Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback, is widely considered one of the best young signal-callers in the league. His injury leaves the Browns with a major hole at the quarterback position and could force them to make a trade for a replacement.

Potential Trade Partners

If the Browns do indeed decide to trade for a quarterback, there are several potential options available. One possibility is Jimmy Garoppolo, who was recently released by the San Francisco 49ers. Garoppolo is a veteran quarterback with experience in a successful system and would be a good fit for the Browns' offense. Another option is Baker Mayfield, who was traded to the Carolina Panthers in the offseason. Mayfield is a former No. 1 overall pick who has shown flashes of his potential, but he also comes with some baggage.

Draft Strategy Implications

If the Browns do not trade for a quarterback, they will likely use their first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft on a quarterback. The top quarterback prospects in this year's draft include C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young, and Anthony Richardson. Stroud is considered the most pro-ready of the three, while Young is the most talented. Richardson has the highest upside, but he is also the most raw.

The Giants currently hold the No. 26 overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. If the Browns do not trade for a quarterback, the Giants could potentially trade up to select one of the top quarterback prospects. However, this would likely cost them multiple first-round picks.

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to Watson's injury, the Giants must also consider other factors when making their decision on whether to trade up for a quarterback. These factors include the health of their current quarterback, Daniel Jones, and the overall strength of their team.

Jones is entering the final year of his rookie contract and is coming off a disappointing season. If the Giants do not believe that Jones is their long-term answer at quarterback, they may be more likely to trade up for a replacement. However, the Giants also have a number of other needs, including offensive tackle, wide receiver, and cornerback. They will need to decide whether drafting a quarterback is the best use of their resources.

Conclusion

The New York Giants' NFL Draft strategy will be significantly impacted by the recent news of Deshaun Watson's season-ending knee injury. The Giants could trade up for a quarterback in the first round, but they will also need to consider other factors, such as the health of Daniel Jones and the overall strength of their team.