Giants Rumors: New York Showing Interest In Jared Odrick
The New York Giants are hoping to re-sign defensive tackle Johnathan Hankins, but if that doesn’t work out, Jared Odrick could be his replacement.
The New York Giants have invested a massive sum of money in building the defensive line. During the 2016 offseason, defensive tackle Damon Harrison was signed to a five-year, $46.25 million contract, and defensive end Olivier Vernon inked a five-year deal worth $85 million.
One offseason later, the Giants secured the foundation of the defense by signing a third defensive lineman, Jason Pierre-Paul, to a four-year deal worth $62 million.
Having invested an average of $39.75 million per season in three Pro Bowl linemen, the Giants have done enough to test the limitations of the salary cap. Yet, with Johnathan Hankins still a free agent, New York doesn’t appear to be done maneuvering—and Big Hank isn’t its only target.
According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network, the Giants would prefer to re-sign Hankins, but are open to signing another defensive lineman if that doesn’t work out: Jared Odrick.
FA DE Jared Odrick, who passed a physical on his #Patriots visit, is one to watch on if #Giants don’t get Hankins back. He’ll take visits
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 20, 2017
New York’s pursuit of depth along the defensive line continues.
Odrick, 29, was selected at No. 29 overall by the Miami Dolphins in the 2010 NFL Draft. During his seven NFL seasons, he’s appeared in 87 games and recorded 170 combined tackles and 23.0 sacks.
Though not necessarily explosive numbers, Odrick has been regarded as a quality defensive lineman due to his versatility.
In the case of the Giants, Odrick could be a rotational piece who helps alleviate pressure from Harrison, Pierre-Paul, and Vernon. Pierre-Paul and Vernon were two of the most active defensive ends in the NFL in 2016 and could benefit from being able to rest when the opportunity arises.
Though Odrick struggled against the run in 2016, he remains a solid player as it pertains to applying pressure to the quarterback.
Odrick and Vernon were teammates with the Dolphins between 2012 and 2014. That’s an intriguing truth that could create a smoother process as Odrick potentially adjusts to a new scheme in New York.
It doesn’t appear as though anything is imminent, but adding a veteran who has played with the highest-paid defensive lineman on the roster wouldn’t be a terrible decision.
Must Read: Reasons to love Jason Pierre-Paul re-signing
The New York Giants prefer to re-sign Johnathan Hankins, but they have options in free agency.