New York Giants: 5 best draft picks of all-time

In the 1953 draft the New York Giants found them a stud in the 27th round. Yes, you read that right, the 321st pick overall in the 27th round was Roosevelt Brown, the offensive tackle out of Morgan State.

The stellar left tackle ended up playing for the Giants from 1953 through 1965 and was named to nine Pro Bowls during that span of time. He was also rewarded with the honor of being placed on the First Team All-Pro six times during his 163-game career.

No. 79 had all these honors but managed to do so in a time much different than our own. He may have never been noticed enough to earn the distinction of being drafted had it not been for an African-American newspaper, named the Pittsburgh Courier.

The Morgan State star was named to the Courier’s 1952 Black All-American Team. He had the distinction of blocking for stars such as running back Frank Gifford and Alex Webster. Rosey was also part of the Giants 1956 NFL Championship team and was later named to the NFL’s All-Decade team for his play during the 1950’s.

Brown continued to be a success in New York after his playing career was over. He was a well-respected assistant coach and scout for the Giants. The Hall of Fame tackle spent a grand total of 51 seasons with the team until his unfortunate passing in 2004 at the age of 71.

Next: No. 3