One of the draft debates on the board, if not the key debate regarding this draft, is how to evaluate the QB position relative to the #6 pick / #17 pick.
Like with most decisions, introducing a numerical basis can provide considerable clarity. Which is not to say it cannot introduce other biases.
To do this, let's use Sy's grade value system as our baseline number decision framework. Sy has not released his QB grades yet but for the sake of this discussion that is not necessary.
Let's also set a key benchmark in this analysis. In the last 6 years Sy has only had 3 QBs rated over 82 (Rosen/89, Mayfield/86, Goff/86). That is since 2013. In other words, positional scarcity is a very real consideration when assessing drafting quarterbacks.
Average QB values per Sy since 2013 for quarterbacks selected in the top 10 is 81.4 (10 players). It is 76.33 for quarterbacks selected in the first round from #11 thru 32 (6 players).
The final benchmark to set for this analysis is an assumption - the average likely grade of the non-QB player that we would select at pick 6 or 17. Let's assume it is 84.33 for #6 and 83 for #17.
Basis for that at #6 is Sweat/83-Oliver/84-Q.Will/86 = 84.33 avg. Basis at #17 is Ferrell/83-Murphy/83-D.Jones/83. You can assign your own expected grade for the position if you'd like.
Finally, the actual accuracy of Sy's grades are not important for this discussion. While we all have love for Sy, these numbers are just a benchmark for hypothetical positional value.
The question then when projecting forward, including in this draft, is given the Giants have a growing need for a QB, how do you acquire a QB in the first round without "reaching" when the average value/rating of the QB will lower than the average value/rating of the non-QB? On average at pick 6 you are losing 3 points in value, and at 17 you are losing almost 7. One answer is you wait until that year when QB value matches expected draft selection value. The problem, of course, is how long would you have to wait? And can you wait.
What would you do?
Very soon the problem will become QB. Eli is 38 and his contract expires at the end of this year. I'm not necessarily in favor of drafting 1st round qb this year either however - the crop is somewhat underwhelming at the top - not to say there aren't solid players there.
Given the holes on our team it hurts, I agree, to have to sacrifice a pick for a QB, but don't we have consider needing to get one for post-Eli?
Dave, take the age out. Any QB can be done on one hit or missed step.