As the NFL Draft rapidly approaches, Joe Schoen, general manager of the Giants, anticipates a restful night before the event. With meticulous preparation and a well-defined process in place, Schoen is confident that his team has done their due diligence and can rest easy. While the notion of a draft board whispering instructions may be amusing, Schoen emphasizes the importance of a thorough evaluation process, ensuring that all staff members are in lockstep with his vision for acquiring talent.
Despite the absence of a vocal draft board, Schoen’s approach is characterized by a rigorous analysis of player stacks, discrepancies, and personnel utilization. This collaborative effort aims to make informed decisions on draft day, alleviating the pressure and anxiety that often accompany such a significant event.
While Schoen’s previous draft evaluations have yielded mixed results, he remains steadfast in his approach. His first draft brought in a haul of 11 players, with Kayvon Thibodeaux emerging as a standout. However, Evan Neal’s performance has fallen short of expectations, and Wan’Dale Robinson’s rookie season was marred by an ACL tear. The 2023 draft class, composed of seven players, showed promise with Deonte Banks and John Michael Schmitz becoming immediate starters, while Jalin Hyatt displayed speed as a deep-threat receiver.
Despite these mixed results, Schoen believes in his process and the importance of meticulous planning. He spends countless hours analyzing film, discussing player evaluations with his staff, and ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding player rankings and potential fits within the Giants’ system.
Schoen’s confidence stems from the belief that the preparation and collaboration that have gone into this draft will guide his decision-making on draft day. He trusts that the board, while silent, will speak to him through the careful analysis and consensus building that have been the hallmark of his approach. By embracing a well-defined process and fostering a collaborative environment, Schoen aims to make informed decisions and secure the best possible talent for the Giants.
