Dottino: Did Lightning Strike Twice For Giants?

By Paul Dottino
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Could it be that lightning struck in the same place twice?

That's exactly what happened at Giants headquarters during the NFL Draft as the team was able to grab two of its projected first-round picks in the opening two rounds - taking LSU WR Rueben Randle (6-2, 208) in the second round, a day after they passed on him to take Virginia Tech RB David Wilson in the first.

Randle was believed to be one of the top five receivers on the Giants' board, which also had him listed among the Top 25 in the draft. He caught 53 passes for 917 yards and eight TDs last season.

"This kid runs the full-route tree," said GM Jerry Reese, comparing Randle's pro-style game to Hakeem Nicks. "He looks like a big, pro, wide receiver out there. I think he will be a quick fit for the offense. He is big. He can post guys up and he has very good hands."

In the third round, the Giants took Virginia Tech CB-PR Jayron Hosley (5-9, 206), admiring his ability to cover and play on special teams. Hosley failed his drug test at the NFL Combine, although the Giants front office said they did their homework on the prospect, who has overcome hamstring and concussion issues.

Hosley finished 11th in the nation with a 12.67 PR avg. last season. He collected 59 tackles and three interceptions - with Coughlin saying teams avoided throwing at him.

"He is not a big man, but he has athletic arrogance," Reese said. "He plays like a big guy."

 Why they might be good picks: Randle adds another big-play threat to QB Eli Manning's WR corps, which lost Mario Manningham (49ers). Randle proved to be a big target who ran reliable routes and could be counted on to hold the ball for the Tigers. ... Hosley joins a roster devoid of a true punt returning threat and a team which lost six cornerbacks to injuries last season.

 Why they might not be good picks: Randle should work out well, unless he fails to respond to coaching at the pro level. ... The diminutive Hosley must avoid injuries and prove the Giants were right to believe in his character.
 2012 NFL DRAFT SCHEDULE: Saturday, fourth through seventh rounds, noon.