2016 NFL Free Agency: Top 10 Players The New York Giants Should Target
By Neal Lynch
4. Tashaun Gipson (FS, Cleveland Browns)
2015 Cap Hit: $2,356,000
Age: 25 years old
WalterFootball.com ranked Gipson as the fourth best free agent safety behind Eric Berry, Eric Weddle, and George Iloka, stating:
"“Normally one of the NFL’s better safeties, Tashaun Gipson was hindered by an ankle injury all year. He struggled as a consequence, but should be able to rebound in 2016. He’ll turn just 26 in August.”"
Berry and Weddle will cost more than what they’re probably worth and Iloka is more of a strong safety, the position Landon Collins will assume once the free safety position is filled.
NFL Spin Zone speculates that the San Diego Chargers might sign Tashaun while the Daily Norseman suspects Gipson will be re-signed to a long-term deal. Landing Gipson would sure up the safety position for years to come, which is just the window the Giants have for Eli to collect a couple more Lombardis.
3. Olivier Vernon (DE, Miami Dolphins)
2015 Cap Hit: $1,701,520
Age: 25 years old
With Derek Wolfe re-signing with the Denver Broncos, Vernon is now the top ranked free agent defensive end according to WalterFootball.com:
"“Olivier Vernon’s stats didn’t show it, as he didn’t even notch double-digit sacks, but he had a fantastic 2015 campaign, both in terms of rushing the passer and helping out against the run. Just 26 in October, Vernon has a bright future ahead of him.”"
The Phinsider predicts Miami will re-sign or franchise tag their breakthrough pass rusher while PhinPhanatic thinks the Dolphins will have to choose between Olivier and fellow free agent Lamar Miller. The Palm Beach Post wrote that the Dolphins top priority is re-signing Vernon.
Big Cat Country listed Vernon as a possible target for the Jaguars. NJ.com believes Olivier is one of the top 3 free agents the Giants should target this offseason and Omar Kelly of the Orlando Sun-Sentinel feels Vernon will be worth somewhere in the $40 million range, which wouldn’t break the Giants bank if it’s over four or five years. Miami, on the other hand, doesn’t have any salary cap space and will need to make significant cuts to make room.
Next: DENVER'S DUO