Giants Rumors: Jedrick Wills Jr. Buzz 'Building' in NFL Circles Ahead of Draft

Former Alabama right tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. could be relocating to New York.

According to ESPN's Jordan Raanan and Rich Cimini, there has been "buzz" mounting around the league that Wills will land with the New York Giants at No. 4 overall in the 2020 NFL draft come April 23:

"The Giants already have former Alabama running backs coach Burton Burns on staff. He has seen what Wills can do and would likely provide another stamp of approval. Wills would be an ideal fit in an offense expected to be more run-heavy than most. No wonder the buzz on Wills to the Giants has been building in league circles. He would start on the right side and, depending on how things shake out over the next few seasons, potentially move to the left. Wills seems to be the most likely match for the Giants—low risk, dependable and powerful."

Earlier this week, Bleacher Report's Matt Miller ranked Wills as the top offensive tackle and seventh-best overall prospect in this draft class. The 6'4", 312-pounder is also Miller's best pass-blocker, best Day 1 starter and best scheme fit (with the Giants).

Quarterback Daniel Jones was sacked 38 times across 13 games (12 starts) as a rookie last season. For context, Arizona Cardinals 2019 top overall pick Kyler Murray led the league with 48 sacks across 16 regular-season starts under center.

Wills was exceptional at protecting the quarterback:

Wills would also help maximize 2018 Offensive Rookie of the Year Saquon Barkley's game-changing abilities out of the backfield:

The consensus is that the Giants have to upgrade Jones' protection, but there are varying preferences when it comes to whom Big Blue should draft fourth overall, according to the team's mock draft tracker. Outside of Wills, experts have projected Iowa left tackle Tristan Wirfs or Clemson outside linebacker Isaiah Simmons at No. 4 to New York.

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. is among those in the Simmons camp (h/t Giants.com's Dan Salomone):

"The Giants should take an offensive tackle with one of their first two picks, but I wouldn't pass on Simmons, who has rare athleticism and versatility. Stick him at outside linebacker and let him chase down ball-carriers, rush the passer and cover tight ends. Simmons never has to leave the field. New coach Joe Judge will love him."

The Giants' next selection after No. 4 is in the second round at No. 36.