TE Larry Donnell vs. S Brandon Meriweather/Phillip Thomas
Donnell ran freely through the Washington secondary in the first meeting and caught three TD passes in the Giants’ blowout win. Defensive coordinator Jim Haslett is vowing to keep track of Donnell this time but he could be hamstrung. Meriweather is hobbled by a toe injury and may not play, and with Odell Beckham Jr. demanding double coverage, Donnell should be able to find room in the middle of the field. The rookie’s contributions have slacked off and he’s had fumbling issues but he could have another big day here.
O-line help and drafting a big tackle high could allow them to move RT Justin Pugh to guard, which some think might be his best position.
WR AMARI COOPER, ALABAMA (6-1, 205)
He doesn’t have the prototypical size for a No. 1 receiver in the NFL, but he certainly has the skills to dominate and he’s had a sensational junior season (115 catches, 1,656 yards, 14 touchdowns). He’s drawn comparisons to Sammy Watkins, Marvin Harrison and . . . Odell Beckham Jr., which might make him an odd fit for the Giants, who could use a bigger receiver. But think of the army of receivers Ben McAdoo worked with in Green Bay, and now dream of a foursome of Cooper, Rueben Randle, Beckham and Cruz.
S LANDON COLLINS, ALABAMA (6-0, 215)
Two Crimson Tide safeties (Mark Barron, Ha Ha Clinton-Dix) were drafted in the first round the last two years, and Collins might be the best of the trio. The Giants are thin at the position, and could get thinner if they don’t re-sign veteran Antrel Rolle after the season. Collins and safety Stevie Brown could give them a bright future at the position.