Focus: Giants Free Agent List
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Thanks to Pro Football Focus that has a new, massive, searchable database of all the NFL Free Agents here — the Giants are looking at 16 potential free agents heading into the 2011 season:
Allthought we’ve talked about this before, it might be worthwhile to revisit it again now that the CBA is closer to a resolution. Of these — I think the following players are absolutely essential to re-sign as NY Giants for the 2011 season:
Ahmad Bradshaw – proved he can handle the lead role, look for an even more explosive 2011 with the Giants and a better handle on the football inside the red zone.
Steve Smith – are you kidding? where would 3rd down be without Steve Smith? Torn ACL will take time to rehab but is a solid part of the WR core.
Mathias Kiwanuka – was on track for a monster 2010, should get a one year contract to see how the neck holds up.
Kevin Boss – one of the most likable guys on the team, still a largely unused red zone threat that has a monster year in him.
Kevin Boothe – the uncertainty of the Left OL means the Giants will need Boothe for depth.
A notch or two down from essential, here are the “nice to haves” at least until training camp:
Chase Blackburn – a backup LB and special teams mainstay — not sure he’d make the final 53.
Derek Hagan – performed beautifully off the couch, this time it’d be nice to have him in the rotation from the beginning of the season.
Dave Tollefson – great guy, great heart and determination, but depth on the DL is hard to come by and rookies need their time too.
Michael Clayton – the veteran didn’t really show me much with his time on the Giants, not sure why he’s a lock to make it all of a sudden. I say he goes elsewhere.
Here are some of the good players that are still likely leaving the Giants organization for one reason or another:
Barry Cofield – had a good 2010, will look for a more competitive paycheck elsewhere.
Keith Bullock and Deon Grant– wouldn’t have a true starting role with the Giants in 2011, will find another team that offers them what they want.