NFL Draft Experts Weigh In: A Comprehensive Review Of The Giants' Round 1 Picks

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Post on Apr 26, 2025

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NFL Draft Experts Weigh In: A Comprehensive Review of the Giants' Round 1 Picks

The New York Giants made waves during the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, selecting two players who have already sparked considerable debate among draft analysts. Did General Manager Joe Schoen make shrewd moves to bolster the team's future, or did he miss the mark? Let's dive into the expert opinions and dissect the Giants' Round 1 picks.

The Picks: A Quick Recap

The Giants, armed with two first-round picks thanks to the Kadarius Toney trade, selected:

1. No. 25 Overall: Deonte Banks, Cornerback (Maryland): A player known for his exceptional speed and athleticism.
2. No. 28 Overall: Jalin Hyatt, Wide Receiver (Tennessee): A blazing-fast receiver with a knack for the deep ball.

Expert Reactions: A Mixed Bag

Initial reactions to the Giants’ selections have been decidedly mixed. While some analysts lauded the team's focus on addressing key needs with high-upside players, others expressed concerns about potential positional value and fit within the existing roster.

Deonte Banks: A Risky, Rewarding Gamble?

Many draft experts praised Banks's impressive 40-yard dash time and physical tools. His potential to develop into a lockdown cornerback is undeniable. However, questions remain about his experience and consistency. Some analysts noted concerns about his tackling technique and ability to consistently mirror receivers in man coverage.

• Positive Feedback: "Banks possesses elite athleticism and the raw talent to become a top-tier corner. His upside is enormous." - ESPN Analyst Mel Kiper Jr.
• Concerns Raised: "While his speed is undeniable, Banks needs to improve his technique and consistency. He's a project, but a potentially high-reward one." - NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah

Jalin Hyatt: Speed Kills, But is it Enough?

Jalin Hyatt's game is all about speed. He's a deep threat extraordinaire, capable of stretching the field and creating explosive plays. However, his smaller frame and limited route tree have raised concerns among some analysts. The question remains: can he translate his college success to the NFL, especially against larger, more physical cornerbacks?

• Positive Outlook: "Hyatt is a game-changer. His speed is elite, and he’s a threat to score every time he touches the ball. A perfect complement to the Giants' existing receiving corps." - CBS Sports' Pete Prisco
• Potential Drawbacks: "Hyatt's skillset is limited. He's a one-trick pony, and he'll need to develop a more diverse route tree to succeed in the NFL." - Pro Football Focus Analyst Mike Renner

Overall Assessment: A Calculated Risk

The Giants' first-round picks represent a calculated risk. Schoen clearly prioritized speed and athleticism, hoping to address weaknesses in the secondary and add a much-needed vertical threat to the offense. Whether these selections pan out remains to be seen. The Giants have potentially addressed significant needs, but the long-term success of these picks hinges on their development and ability to adapt to the NFL game.

The Bottom Line:

The Giants' 2023 first-round draft picks have generated substantial discussion. While the upside is undeniably high, the inherent risks are also significant. Time will tell whether these players live up to the hype and become cornerstone pieces for the Giants' future. The coming seasons will undoubtedly be crucial in evaluating the success of Schoen’s draft strategy.