A Mirror Offseason for the New York Giants
By Ed Roberts
Before the Giants won the Super Bowl in February, fans and critics alike were in hysterics over the lack of moves that Jerry Reese and co. made prior to the start of the season.
They lost Kevin Boss and Steve Smith to free agency. They lost Domenik Hixon and Terrell Thomas to injury. Prince Amukamara held out and proceeded to get injured on his first full practice day. Things looked to be a mess in Big Blue Nation.
This offseason, the hysterics are far from that of last year given the results, but their is still a cause for concern. The Giants lost wide receiver Mario Manningham, cornerback Aaron Ross, and running back Brandon Jacobs to free agency this year
They are also in danger of losing Super Bowl hero Chase Blackburn, defensive end Dave Tollefson, and long-time o-lineman Kareem McKenzie. The average fan may fret over this, but their are comparable players already on the roster who can step in and produce equally, if not better.
The Giants will also look to the draft to improve their roster, as they have done in year’s past. This year, I see Reese and co. taking much talked about wide receiver, Alshon Jeffery, with the 32nd pick. Jeffery would add a different dynamic to the Giants receiving corps and would fit in great with Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. According to Todd Mcshay’s latest mock draft, Jeffery will be available when the Giants pick in the 1st round. Jerry Reese loves to go best available, and Jeffery would certainly be a valuable pick late in the first round.
The Giants will most likely look to their offensive line, running back and defensive tackle with their later round picks.
With Jeffery taking the hurt out of the Mannigham departure, a healthy cornerback on both sides in Webster and Thomas, experienced sophomores in Herzlich, Paysinger, Sash, and Hynoski, and the tight end corral returning by mid-season— the Giants should be in just fine shape for the upcoming season.
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