Offseason Outlook: New York Giants
Dec 28, 2014; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive end
Jason Pierre-Paul(90) reacts against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Defensive Line.
It’s almost a forgone conclusion that Jason Pierre-Paul will be back with the team next season, whether franchise-tagged or new contract. Even with JPP, the Giants have some serious work to do on the D-Line. Robert Ayers was a solid pick-up but he got injured. They need to add more pass rush, and it starts with the defensive line. Jonathan Hankins has proven to be an emerging threat at the Defensive Tackle position, but they still need more depth.
Here are some free agents available (DE & DT):
Here are some draft prospects:
- Randy Gregory
- Shane Ray
- Alvin Dupree
- Trey Flowers
- Arik Armstead
The draft class for defensive ends looks really appealing, but only for the cream of the crop. Gregory and Ray have top five potential, and the Giants would be lucky to get either one at the ninth overall pick. If neither is available, then they should hold off until the second or third round to draft a defensive lineman.
Whether they spend their first pick on a D-Lineman, they should still be active in the market and sign one or two other defensive linemen, in addition to JPP. Of the bunch, Hughes, Knighton and Umenyiora seem like good fits, considering that Suh will demand a monster contract.
If I were GM?
I would bring back Umenyiora to reunite with new defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo while trying to draft Ray or Gregory. If both are gone before the Giants are on the clock, I would strongly consider signing Pot Roast.
Regardless of what the Giants do this offseason, building a strong defensive line is imperative.
Next: Wide Receiver Targets