2021 NFL Mock Draft: Bears trade into top 10, Washington Football Team goes offense

Daniel Jones is entering his third year with the Giants and needs to prove that he can be a starting quarterback at the NFL level. The Giants are going to do what it takes to surround him with talent and already added a top receiver, Kenny Golladay, in free agency.

Still, they could add another one. They have Darius Slayton but giving Jones a third WR in addition to TE Evan Engram and the return of RB Saquon Barkley would give him a ton of weapons. It would also give him zero excuses if his issues with sacks and turnovers show up once again.

The Giants are in the perfect position to land some help for Jones. While all three receivers could be gone by the 11th pick, there’s also a chance that two are on the board for them. In this case, they have to choose between Smith and Waddle and Smith gets the nod.

Last season, Smith was a dynamic threat for Alabama. He caught 117 passes for 1,856 yards and a ridiculous 23 touchdowns for the national champion Crimson Tide. Because of his great effort, he became the first wide receiver to win the Heisman Trophy since Desmond Howard.

Smith is an excellent route runner with soft hands and very good speed. He has the tools needed to find success in the NFL, and the only question about him is his slight 170-pound frame. He’ll need to bulk up at least 10 or so pounds to avoid being injury prone or unable to block, but he showed good functional strength on his college game tape. So, he can be trusted.

Smith will probably appeal to Dave Gettleman and Joe Judge as a polished, experienced prospect and a good leader. He has the skills needed to be a potential No. 1 receiver and he complements Golladay and Slayton well.

It’s worth noting that the Giants did sign former first-round speed demon John Ross to a deal this offseason, so Waddle can’t be ruled out. Still, if they have to choose one, going with Smith seems like the better fit at this point in time.