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2016 NFL Draft: Round 1 Mock for All 32 Teams

By Peter Panacy

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell begins the draft and puts the Houston Texans on the clock at the start of the 2014 NFL draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; NFL commissioner Roger Goodell begins the draft and puts the Houston Texans on the clock at the start of the 2014 NFL draft at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 14, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) celebrates in the second quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame won 28-7. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) celebrates in the second quarter against the Wake Forest Demon Deacons at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame won 28-7. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 10: New York Giants

2015 Record: 6-10

The Pick: ILB Jaylon Smith, Notre Dame

The New York Giants defense is full of holes entering 2016, and this side of the ball will need some considerable improvements and upgrades to move up from their 30th-ranked finish last season (442 points allowed).

Additionally, the Giants gave up more yardage than any other team in the league (6,725) and would like to add some pieces to limit opponents’ gains at the line of scrimmage.

Notre Dame linebacker Jaylon Smith is one of the most enticing prospects in the draft. While his injury concerns at the tail end of last season are worrisome, Smith’s recovery appears to be progressing nicely. When healthy, Smith combines great tackling abilities, solid coverage and a tremendous presence on the defensive side of the ball.

All the things a weak New York defense needs.

Next: No. 11: Chicago Bears