Big shoes to fill: Replacing 2019 NFL Draft first round picks

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 01: Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end Chase Young (2) reacts after getting the sack against the Northwestern Wildcats during the Big Ten championship game on December 1, 2018 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

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EVANSTON, IL – SEPTEMBER 08: Duke Blue Devils quarterback Quentin Harris (18) looks to pass in the 4th quarter during a college football game between the Duke Blue Devils and the Northwestern Wildcats on September 08, 2018, at Ryan Field in Evanston, IL. Duke won 21-7. (Photo by Daniel Bartel/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

Quentin Harris – Duke

Replacing: Daniel Jones, New York Giants

Undoubtedly the most polarizing selection in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft was the New York Giants tabbing former Duke Blue Devils quarterback Daniel Jones as the No. 6 overall pick. Even when factoring in the positional value of a quarterback, most people had Jones pegged as a late first-round pick at best, but a player that you would more than likely feel better about taking on Day 2. Yet, here he is as the sixth pick.

Regardless of what you think about the Giants taking him as the heir apparent to Eli Manning, what can’t be argued is that Jones was a key part of Duke’s success on the offensive side of the ball. No, he wasn’t overly productive with 22 touchdown passes and 2,674 yards through the air last season, but he was a consistent and steady hand at quarterback, which provides a lot of value.

In replacing Jones, though, Duke may now be looking at a dramatic change to their offense as Quentin Harris takes over. The redshirt senior is far more of a polished runner than a passer at this point, which could be something that Dave Cutcliffe looks to take advantage of.

Jones actually missed time last year in games against Baylor and NC Central, allowing us a glimpse of Harris and the returns were solid. The now starter only went 27-of-57 passing but threw for six touchdowns, 376 yards and no interceptions in those games while also rushing for 117 yards and another score. Duke certainly hopes that was a sign of things to come.

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