Giants Major Offseason Moves So Far
The New York Giants came into the NFL offseason with a clear plan. Defense and protecting the quarterback. Apparently Saquon Barkley was never part of their plan this offseason as they reportedly didn’t even offer him a contract before their NFC East rival, Philadelphia Eagles, literally swooped in to sign him.
Let’s take a look at some major moves that the Giants have made so far and some moves they could potentially still make this offseason.
Getting a Pass Rusher in Brian Burns
Arguably the top three positions you need to fill to have a contending team in the NFL are quarterback, left tackle, and a pass rusher. The Giants certainly have one of the top pass rushing duos in the league now with Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux.
Two seasons ago Brian Burns had 12.5 sacks. Last season he had just eight in 16 games but was on a bad defense that was playing from well behind in most games, limiting his sack opportunities. The Giants traded a high-second-round pick this year and a fifth-round pick, plus they gave him a massive $150 million dollar extension for five years.
Offensive Line and Quarterback Protection
Daniel Jones, Tommy DeVito, and Tyrod Taylor all played six or more games for the New York Giants last year and combined they were sacked 87 times. The quarterback sacked the most in the league was Sam Howell who played all 17 games and was sacked 65 times. Quarterback protection was clearly going to be needed to be addressed.
The Giants have done that so far getting Jon Runyan, an offensive guard, on a $30 million dollar deal over three years and right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor for two years and $14 million dollars.
Last season Saquon Barkley had the highest grade as far as a running-back-pass blocker. He’s now in Philadelphia so the Giants signed the sixth-ranked-pass protector from the position in Devin Singletary.
Additionally, a backup quarterback was signed in Drew Lock who once had promise as a starter in the league with Denver and then with Seattle before he was beat out before the season by Geno Smith. Based on last year where three quarterbacks played six or more games, it seems likely Lock may play a little this year.
More Moves to Come?
Some glaring holes on this team are at wide receiver and running back. We just mentioned Devin Singletary but don’t be surprised if the Giants go after a running back in the upcoming NFL Draft. Blake Corum and Trey Benson are two third-round options.
At wide receiver, the Giants may plan on using their first pick on the position. With the sixth-overall pick the Giants could swing on a quarterback if they are ready to move on from Daniel Jones or take a wide receiver such as Romeo Odunze out of Washington or grab a left tackle.
There are plenty of options as to how the Giants can continue to fill out their roster and it will be interesting to see over the next few months.
By Jack Stradley, I’m a sports writer always looking for a gripping story and a hot take.