Watch CBS News

Giants' Mara Looking For Big Draft After Productive Free Agency

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP)New York Giants co-owner John Mara isn't taking the pressure off Jerry Reese after a big free agency signing period.

Mara wants more from his general manager in the draft at the end of the month — as in more talent.

Reese has delivered in the past month with the free-agent signings of defensive end Olivier Vernon, defensive tackle Damon Harrison, cornerback Janoris Jenkins and linebacker Keenan Robinson.

After missing the playoffs the past four seasons, the Giants (6-10) need more help, and the draft is the next big step.

New York has the 10th pick in the first round and its needs are plentiful. The Giants could use an offensive tackle, a wide receiver to play opposite Odell Beckham Jr., a linebacker and a safety.

"Every draft is important, but I would say this one more so than usual," Mara said Wednesday after a news conference to announce a Paul McCartney concert at MetLife Stadium on Aug. 7.

"Because we're picking so high, and because we're coming off of 3 1/2 losing years, it's time to pick it up," Mara added. "We spent all this money in free agency, and we got better. But we're still not there, and we need some impact players."

The Giants had a good draft a year ago, getting left tackle Ereck Flowers and safety Landon Collins in the first two rounds. Mara said he tends to leave the decisions to Reese, his coaches and scouts. This will be Ben McAdoo's first draft as head coach.

Mara said the team meets the day before the draft and goes over possible scenarios involving two or three players, leaving little to decide at the last minute.

"If the coach and GM agree on the pick, then chances are I'm not going to have anything to say about it," Mara said. "If there seems to be some disagreement in the room, maybe with some scouts or whomever, then that might be something I want to talk about. But a lot of times, they work those things ahead of time."

(TM and © Copyright 2016 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2016 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.