According to multiple reports the Giants and free agent guard/tackle Geoff Schwartz have agreed to terms. This seems to be a slam dunk move by the GMEN, especially given the team friendly, 4 year, $16.8 million (only $6.2million guaranteed) contract.
Aug 9, 2013; New Orleans, LA, USA; Kansas City Chiefs tackle Geoff Schwartz (74) against the New Orleans Saints during a preseason game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The Saints defeated the Chiefs 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Last year’s offensive line was atrocious in all aspects of the game. Meanwhile, Geoff Schwartz was the highest rated free agent guard by Pro Football Focus . Schwartz brings an immediate upgrade to the Giants offensive line, whether he will end up at left guard or right guard. Schwartz also has experience at tackle, if the Giants end up needing him to play there in a pinch. The Giants in the past have loved to have versatile players like Schwartz who can play multiple positions along the lines.
Last year was not just an anomaly for Schwartz, as PFF’s Pete Damilatis tweeted:
Since he entered the league, Geoff Schwartz has a +4.3 @PFF grade per 100 snaps played, 4th-best rate of any guard in that NFL.
— Pete Damilatis (@PeteDamilatis) March 11, 2014
Overall, I think this will go down as one of the best signings of this free agent period. Schwartz is still only 27 years old and at 6’6 , 340 lbs. can be a physical force in the interior of the Giants’ line. Schwartz should help Eli stay upright for years to come.
What do you think about this move GMEN fans?