Kadarius Toney will lead the Giants in receiving yards and Kenny Golladay will be first in touchdown catches this season.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - Kenny Golladay should be the answer to both of these questions. Toney is going to be an impactful player as a rookie because of his ability operate and make plays in space. I do not think he will be an ultra-high volume receiving target this early in his career. He is still a raw route runner and it will take him some time for him to learn that craft on the NFL level and for Daniel Jones to grow comfortable enough with him to constantly feed him the ball. Instead, offensive coordinator Jason Garrett will scheme up way to get the ball to Toney, whether it is as a runner on jet sweeps, end-arounds or traditional running plays, or as a receiver on bubble screens, quick hitters, 1-on-1 opportunities in the slot and on deep routes. He will also likely be a factor on punt and kick returns.
Dan Salomone: Fact - It's not out of the question. Just look what rookie receivers have done recently around the league. Justin Jefferson set the NFL rookie record with 1,400 receiving yards last year, and he was the 22nd overall pick. Toney is roughly the same size and played in the same conference in college. Just saying.
Lance Medow: Fiction - In the two seasons that Kenny Golladay played at least 15 games with Detroit, he led the Lions in receiving yards with 1,063 yards in 2018 and 1,190 in 2019. If he can once again reach that volume of games, I think Golladay will lead the Giants in receiving yards and touchdowns. In each of the last two seasons, Darius Slayton has topped the team in receiving yards but given the presence of Golladay and the return of Saquon Barkley, I don't think Slayton will accomplish that feat three years in a row. With respect to Kadarius Toney, I think a lot depends on how many snaps he receives, where he lines up and his number of targets.
View photos of the New York Giants 2021 NFL Draft Class.
WR Kadarius Toney, Florida - Round 1, Pick 20
LB Azeez Ojulari, Georgia - Round 2, Pick 50
CB Aaron Robinson, UCF - Round 3, Pick 71
LB Elerson Smith, Northern Iowa - Round 4, Pick 116
RB Gary Brightwell, Arizona - Round 6, Pick 196
CB Rodarius Williams, Oklahoma State - Round 6, Pick 201
Kadarius Toney during the Gators' game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Matt Stamey
during the Gators' game against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
during the Gators' game against the Ole Miss Rebels on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Miss. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
Kadarius Toney during the Gators' game against the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday, November 28, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Hannah White
during the Gators' game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Tim Casey
during the Gators' game against the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
during the Gators' game against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, far right, runs past the Miami defense on a 66-yard run for a touchdown off a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for a touchdown after a catch during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney scores a touchdown against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) catches a pass during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) catches a pass during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs against Alabama during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for a touchdown after a catch during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
American Team wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) runs during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a 16-yard touchdown against Missouri during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against LSU, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) scores a touchdown during the second half of the team's NCAA college football game against LSU, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs after a reception before he being stopped by the Missouri defense during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) catches a touchdown pass against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route in front of Arkansas defensive back LaDarrius Bishop (24) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for yardage against Georgia during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) stretches for more yards as his is tackled by Texas A&M defensive back Keldrick Carper (14) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020. in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Craft)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) gets past South Carolina defensive back John Dixon (22) for a 57-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, runs past Florida State linebacker Leonard Warner IIIduring the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs past Florida State defensive end Dennis Briggs Jr. (58) and linebacker Adonis Thomas, right, for a long gain during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, tries to escape the grasp of Florida State defensive back Levonta Taylor, right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs against Vanderbilt during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, catches a pass as Missouri defensive back DeMarkus Acy (2) and safety Joshuah Bledsoe (18) defend during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Columbia, Mo. Florida won 23-6. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs against Vanderbilt during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs a pass pattern against Miami during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida running back Kadarius Toney (4) leaps toward the end zone against Michigan defensive back Lavert Hill (24) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs a pass pattern against Miami during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) plays against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari rushes the Arkansas State line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates with his teammates after a sack during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates with defensive lineman Travon Walker (44) after a sack during the second half of the team's NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) in action during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Auburn, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia defensive Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, watches Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari hold the championship tropy as Georgia place kicker Jack Podlesny (96) looks on after the Peach Bowl NCAA college football gameagainst Cincinnati, Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, in Atlanta. Georgia won 22-21. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari rushes the line during an NCAA football gameagainst Arkansas State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Defensive player of the game, Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari holds the championship trophy after the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game against Cincinnati, Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, in Atlanta. Georgia won 22-21. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates a sack with defensive back Mark Webb (23) against Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Riley Neal (6) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
Georgia defensive Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates a sack with defensive back Mark Webb (23) against Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Riley Neal (6) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) attempts a broad jump during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) attempts a vertical jump during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) and American Team wide receiver Trevon Grimes of Florida (8) run a drill during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) catches during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) catches during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game, against Tulsa Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) follows a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) celebrates after a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) defends against Tulsa wide receiver Keylon Stokes (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) defends against Tulsa wide receiver Keylon Stokes (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Tulsa running back T.K. Wilkerson (21) is tackled by Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) after rushing for yardage during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) tackles Pittsburgh wide receiver Maurice Ffrench (2) after he made a catch during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) returns an interception to the 1-yard line as Stanford wide receiver Connor Wedington (5) chases during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) tips the ball away from Houston wide receiver Marquez Stevenson (5) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019.Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr.)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) follows a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson, center, and defensive back Richie Grant, right, break up a pass intended for Temple wide receiver Ventell Bryant (1) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Navy Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. UCF won 35-24. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Navy Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. UCF won 35-24. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
American Team wide receiver Amari Rodgers of Clemson (3)is tackled by National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the first half of the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team offensive lineman Spencer Brown of Northern Iowa (FCS) (76) blocks defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the National team practice for the NCAA college Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) walks on the sidelines during the first half of the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team defensive lineman Rashad Weaver of Pittsburgh (17) runs a drill with defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill during the National Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill with defensive lineman Tarron Jackson of Coastal Carolina (99) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill with defensive lineman Tarron Jackson of Coastal Carolina (99) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) runs the ball against Arizona State in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, center, runs as Washington's Edefuan Ulofoshio (48) and Josiah Bronson (11) move in during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) runs behind the line of scrimmage as quarterback Grant Gunnell waits for the snap against during the first half of the team's NCAA college football game against Washington on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Southern California linebacker Drake Jackson (99) tackles Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, runs by Oregon State linebacker Riley Sharp, left, in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) scores a touchdown against Oregon State in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona Wildcats running back Gary Brightwell (23) before the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) tries to avoid Oregon State defensive back Jojo Forest in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona's Gary Brightwell (23) is brought down by Arizona State's Evan Fields (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, scores a touchdown against UCLA in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Arizona defeated UCLA 20-17. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs through the Hawaii defense during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Northern Arizona, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs with the ball against Texas Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, left, tries to get away from Washington State linebacker Peyton Pelluer (47) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) stands with his teammates during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Washington State in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell catches a pass prior to an NCAA college football game against Texas Tech, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs away from Northern Arizona defensive back Anthony Sweeney in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) scores a touchdown against Northern Arizona in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona quarterback Khalil Tate (14) hands the ball off to running back Gary Brightwell during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Texas Tech, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) lines up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Washington State in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern Utah, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) during an NCAA college football game against Oregon, Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, left, is tackled by Utah defensive end Caleb Repp, right, in the second half during an NCAA college football game Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, is tackled by Houston linebacker Roman Brown during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Rodarius Williams
Image Taken at the Oklahoma State Cowboys vs West Virginia Mountaineers Football Game, Saturday, September 26, 2020, Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams, left, fights for the ball with Kansas wide receiver Andrew Parchment (4) on a pass play in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Stillwater, Okla., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Officials ruled Parchment caught the pass. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Oklahoma State's Rodarius Williams (8) tackles Texas Tech's T.J. Vasher (9) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Brad Tollefson)
Texas A&M wide receiver Quartney Davis (1) is tackled by Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) during the first half of the Texas Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 27, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) and Oklahoma State safety Tre Sterling (3) look to the sidelines during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, in Stillwater, Okla. Oklahoma State defeated Iowa State 24-21.(AP Photo/Brody Schmidt)
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) breaks up a pass intended for Iowa State wide receiver Allen Lazard, right, in the end zone during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Ames, Iowa. Oklahoma State won 49-42. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Image Taken at the Oklahoma State Cowboys vs Texas Tech Red Raiders Football Game, Saturday, November 28, 2020, Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Image of Oklahoma State Cowboy Football Player Taken Wednesday, July 17, 2019, Orange Power Studios, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams attempts a broad jump during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams looks on during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams warms up during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams attempts a vertical jump during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams sits for photos after the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams sits for photos after the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a 3 cone shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
The New York Giants should open the season at home against the Philadelphia Eagles.
John Schmeelk: Fiction - This is where I remark with an abundance of snark that I would be happy with anyone but the Dallas Cowboys, but I will also add that I don't like a division matchup being the first game on the season for any team. I want to see teams hitting their stride and playing their best football before they have to play division opponents. If it was up to me, I wouldn't have any divisional matchups on the schedule until Week 3, at the earliest. There's no shortage of fun non-division games on the schedule, but I would also like to have the Giants a favorite in the game so they could get off to good start. Week 1 also has enough hype on its own, so I don't see a need to put in an ultra-marquee matchup. How about a home opener against the Carolina Panthers? They have a young quarterback in Sam Darnold who would still be adjusting to Joe Brady's system. It would also provide some symmetry with Darnold playing his first game with the Panthers at MetLife stadium, not to mention the connections the media made for Matt Rhule to the New York teams the last few seasons.
Dan Salomone: Fiction - This rivalry is going to be delicious again, but you don't want to take it off the grill too early and eat it raw. Let it get to a tasty medium-rare and enjoy this one soon after the midway point of the season. For the opener, how about a trip to the reigning Super Bowl champion Buccaneers? Eli Manning isn't here anymore, but it's still Tom Brady against the Giants.
Lance Medow: Fiction - If history has taught us anything, if the Giants open the season against a divisional rival, it's clearly going to be the Dallas Cowboys. That's only happened four of the last six years. I think way too much has been made about how the 2020 season ended between the Eagles and Washington and that reason alone doesn't justify the Giants playing them to open the season. A lot has changed since then - with the Eagles bringing in a completely new coaching staff and several new players. On top of that, in general, I'm not a fan of division rivals meeting that early in the season. Those games are extremely important and hold a great deal of weight when it comes to influencing who will win the division that I think they should happen at least a quarter into the season, once the teams have a few games under their belts.
Edge rusher is the most crowded competition heading into the summer.
John Schmeelk: Fact - The Giants building staff might have to knock down a few walls to fit the entire edge rusher class into the same meeting room: 2021 second-round pick Azeez Ojulari; 2021 fourth-round pick Elerson Smith; 2020 sixth-round pick Cam Brown; 2020 seventh-round pick Carter Coughlin; 2019 third-round pick Oshane Ximinez; 2018 third-round pick Lorenzo Carter; Free agent additions Ryan Anderson, Ifeadi Odenigbo.
That's not even mentioning returning players like Trent Harris, DeVante Downs and Niko Lalos who are scheme versatile, much like Brown and Coughlin. No other position group has this kind of depth. May the best man win!
Dan Salomone: Fiction - Even before free agency, the cornerbacks room was stacked. Then, the Giants went out and signed Adoree' Jackson before drafting Aaron Robinson and Rodarius Williams. The defensive backfield has depth and versatility, which will only help the other levels, too.
Lance Medow: Fact - The group of pass rushers just continues to grow. Lorenzo Carter and Oshane Ximines are both returning from season-ending injuries, they added Ifeadi Odenigbo and Ryan Anderson in free agency, Cam Brown and Carter Coughlin are entering their second years in the league and the team just drafted Azeez Ojulari in the second round and Elerson Smith in the fourth. It's fair to say there will plenty of competition for snaps at edge rusher and I wouldn't be surprised if Patrick Graham mixes and matches. based on the opponent throughout the season. Corner comes a in close second with the likes of James Bradberry, Adoree Jackson, Darnay Holmes, Isaac Yiadom, rookies Aaron Robinson and Rodarius Williams and Logan Ryan, Julian Love and Xavier McKinney, who can play multiple positions. However, unlike edge rusher, I think roles are a bit more defined in the secondary and we have a better idea of the main starters.
Linebacker Elerson Smith was the most intriguing pick of the team's 2021 draft class.
John Schmeelk: Fact - Smith ranked in the 97th percentile of athletes testes that played edge rusher, according to the Relative Athletic Score database. He has great length and explosive traits given his jumping drills and 10-yard split on his 40-yard dash. His 3-cone drill was strong, too. Combine that with his dominant play at the FCS level, and there is potential for him to be an impactful pass rusher in the NFL. The talent and ability is there for him to be molded into a very good NFL player.
Dan Salomone: Fact - By now, fans know about his physical transformation, but do they know he was coached by four-time Pro Bowl linebacker and 1995 NFL Defensive Player of the Year Bryce Paup? He helped him put it all together and point his arrow up, which is what attracted the Giants.
Lance Medow: Fact - Elerson Smith was a 190 pound tight end/defensive end when he first entered Northern Iowa only to transform his body into a 250+ pound pass rusher. Unfortunately, he didn't have a chance to play in 2020 because the Missouri Valley Conference did not have a Fall season. Although he was very productive in 2018-19, he's still a developing player given he redshirted in 2016 and didn't start in 2017. Smith led his conference in sacks (14), tackles for loss (21.5) and forced fumbles (5) in 2019 and his length and wingspan creates headaches for the opposition. When you combine his measurements with his production and ability to contribute on special teams, Smith is absolutely the most intriguing member of the 2021 draft class.
