The New York Giants selected former Illinois offensive lineman J.C. Davis in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL draft.
Davis is a talented big man who played an essential role on the Fighting Illini offensive line last season. Standing at 6-foot-5 and 320 pounds, he was widely regarded as a steal in the sixth round given his elite size and athleticism.
The former Illinois star could quietly emerge with a significant role this season should he shine during training camp. Former Giants center Shaun O’Hara recently shared his thoughts on Davis ahead of his rookie campaign, noting that the big man will be able to use his size as a major weapon.
“Eighty-three-inch wingspan. That’s three inches longer than Sisi Mauigoa’s,” O’Hara said on Inside the Film Room. “When you are a tackle that has go-go-gadget arms like that, that is absolutely a weapon.”
Both Francis Mauigoa and Davis were excellent offensive linemen throughout their collegiate careers. The Giants selected Mauigoa with the 10th overall pick in this year’s draft, but the former Miami star is expected to enter his rookie season as a starter, unlike Davis.
Davis will more than likely see significant playing time this season should an injury arise on New York’s offensive line. The rookie flashed major potential at Illinois last season, and he could prove to be a valuable asset in 2026 nonetheless.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Shaun O’Hara on New York Giants rookie J.C. Davis: ‘Absolutely a weapon’
Reporting by Jake Boico, Giants Wire / Giants Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jake Boico, Giants Wire | USA TODAY Network
