NFL: Five rookie WRs in best position to succeed

May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Mike Evans (Texas A&M) poses with his jersey after being selected as the number seven overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

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May 8, 2014; New York, NY, USA; Odell Beckham Jr. (LSU) holds up a jersey after being selected as the number twelve overall pick in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft to the New York Giants at Radio City Music Hall. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

Prior to the draft, Victor Cruz publicly urged the New York Giants to come away with an outside receiver. His wish was the team’s command.

Odell Beckham Jr. was Big Blue’s first-round pick, filling a major need following the offseason departure of Hakeem Nicks. He steps into an ideal spot as a likely starter on the outside, opposite Rueben Randle. His addition means Cruz can man the slot, where he functions best.

The 5-foot-11, 198-pound Beckham Jr. is fast (4.38 forty), athletic (38 1/2 vertical), and multi-talented, having returned two punts for touchdowns during his time at LSU. As a complete player, he earned immense acclaim from many league scouts and personnel. NFL Films guru Greg Cossel, one of the most respected analysts in the business, ranked Beckham as the second-best receiver in the class.

With defenses worrying about Cruz, Beckham should find ample opportunity to stuff the stat sheet on Sundays. Eli Manning will make it a point to get the ball in his hands.

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