Rookie mini-camps and OTAs are underway around the NFL, as the teams get their first look at their draft picks in an NFL uniform. The New York Giants missed the playoffs last season, and they'll be counting on a few rookies to play notable roles to help make return to the postseason this year. But what kind of impact will the Giants' 2016 draft class have?
The short-term impact is based on what the rookies will do early in their careers. For the early round picks, that refers to their first year or two at most. For some of the later picks, that might mean the entirety of their first contract. The long-term impact is what the Giants are hoping these players become, if they are actually able to make a long-term impact. Remember, plenty of draft picks simply don't last long in the NFL.
CB Eli Apple - Round 1, Pick No. 10
Short-Term Impact: Key Rotation Player
With Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Janoris Jenkins on the roster, Apple likely won't start. That's not the worst thing, as Apple could use some developing. However, with little depth at CB, Apple will see the field. At the very least, he should be the No. 4 CB.
Long-Term Impact: Starter
It won't be long before Apple is a starter. He's still a bit raw at age 20, but has everything teams look for in a corner. He fits the mold of the bigger corners the league is moving towards.
WR Sterling Shepard - Round 2, Pick No. 40
Short-Term Impact: Key Rotation Player
The Giants need an option across from Odell Beckham, and Shepard will get a chance early. Shepard is the No. 3 behind Victor Cruz, although Cruz's injury issues mean Shepard could be the No. 2 before long.
Long-Term Impact: Starter
Shepard plays a bit like Cruz, and his selection means it's only a matter of time before he replaces Cruz in the starting lineup. Shepard doesn't have great size, but he makes plays and is consistent. He's going to be a very good No. 2/slot weapon for the Giants.
S Darian Thompson - Round 3, Pick No. 71
Short-Term Impact: Starter
Thompson will have to beat out players like Cooper Taylor and Mykkele Thompson for the starting spot across from Landon Collins. However, that's something Thompson can do from Day One. He's a true playmaker and picked off 19 passes in his time at Boise State. If he doesn't start right away, he likely won't have to wait long.
Long-Term Impact: See above.
LB B.J. Goodson - Round 4, Pick No. 109
Short-Term Impact: Backup
Goodson isn't great in the passing game, but he can be a very good thumper at MLB. He won't start right away, especially with Keenan Robinson likely at MLB. Goodson should be a backup and a special teamer to start.
Long-Term Impact: Starter
Given that the Giants never spend high picks on LBs, it seems likely that Goodson will get a chance as a starter at some point. He should be a two-down starter only, but he could find success.
RB Paul Perkins - Round 5, Pick No. 149
Short-Term Impact: Backup
With Shane Vereen, Rashad Jennings, Andre Williams, Orleans Darkwa and even Bobby Rainey on the roster, it seems like Perkins will have to fight for a job. But Perkins is a talented runner, and I'd be surprised if he didn't make the roster.
Long-Term Impact: Rotation Back
Perkins can do a little bit of everything, and is best as a shifty, change-of-pace runner. He shouldn't be the every-down back, but he can contribute as part of a rotation. In fact, he might even end being the top back in a rotation sooner than later.
TE Jerell Adams - Round 6, Pick No. 184
Short-Term Impact: Backup
Adams showed some promise at South Carolina, although he's a bit of a workout warrior. He's a good pass catcher and a solid blocker and could see the field a bit early.
Long-Term Impact: Backup
Adams is still raw and will need time to develop. While he doesn't look like a No. 1 TE, he could become a good No. 2 option.