Jon Beason: 3 Big Things
Dec 22, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; New York Giants middle linebacker Jon Beason (52) against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
3. The Giants Are Desperate For Him To Stay Healthy:
You would think the Giants would have a better back up plan at the middle linebacker position considering Beason’s injury history. The truth is that if he cannot last through the 16 game season the Giants defense is in some real trouble. The Giants options behind Beason are Jameel McClain and undrafted free agent Cole Farrand.
McClain is actually not a bad linebacker at all, he just isn’t at the same plane of Beason. McClain had some good years with the Baltimore Ravens. He has a lot of heart as an undrafted free agent, he worked his way into the Ravens starting lineup. McClain fits well in a 3-4 but isn’t as good a fit of for the Giants 4-3. McClain got a lot of playing time last year and struggled to fight off blocks. Farrand is a really intriguing rookie but he has a lot of work to do before he can be a suitable replacement for Beason.
The Giants defense has a strong defensive line and secondary. The biggest question marks for this season is what to expect from the linebackers. As long as Beason is healthy throughout the season, the Giants should have success.