New York Giants: 5 Players To Watch vs. New York Jets

Linebackers

The Giants do not have any standouts at the linebacker spot, but there is a lot to watch here. It looks as if only Devon Kennard has a starting spot wrapped up, with middle linebacker and one outside linebacker spot still open.

Jasper Brinkley and Kelvin Sheppard are battling it out for the starting spot in the middle. They are neck-and-neck currently and tonight’s game could decide who starts come the regular season. Brinkley has experience in the system, probably giving him a slight edge.

Another free agent signing, Keenan Robinson, was expected to battle for the starting spot in the middle as well. Instead, he has been working in the nickel packages and second-team weakside linebacker. His strength is supposed to be as a coverage linebacker, so being ahead in the nickel package makes sense.

He could be pushed by J.T Thomas, who is returning this week from the PUP list. Thomas, whom the Giants signed last offseason, could find himself without a roster spot if he doesn’t show something.

Don’t forget about veteran Mark Herzlich. He still commands the special teams, but could play defense if needed like in the past. This is a unit to watch throughout the game as there are so many moving parts.

Next: In The Trenches