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New York Giants To Sign Former Miami Dolphins LB Kelvin Sheppard

By Christopher Schwarz

Dec 27, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins middle linebacker Kelvin Sheppard (52) is introduced before a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sun Life Stadium. The Colts won 18-12. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins middle linebacker Kelvin Sheppard (52) is introduced before a game against the Indianapolis Colts at Sun Life Stadium. The Colts won 18-12. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kelvin Sheppard, former Miami Dolphins middle linebacker, announced on Twitter Sunday that he would be signing with the New York Giants.

Sheppard, 28, is a former third-round pick of the Bills back in 2011 and appeared in all 16 games last season, starting in 13. Sheppard will likely create competition with another newly-signed MLB Keenan Robinson. Robinson has a problem staying on the field, so Sheppard will be an insurance policy at worst.
Sheppard, 28, is a former third-round pick of the Bills back in 2011 and appeared in all 16 games last season, starting in 13. Sheppard will likely create competition with another newly-signed MLB Keenan Robinson. Robinson has a problem staying on the field, so Sheppard will be an insurance policy at worst. /

Pro Football Focus is not so kind to Sheppard. PFF has Sheppard as the 84th-ranked linebacker in the league with a lowly 38.8 grade. He was abysmal against the run, rating out at 34.8 and only marginally better in coverage at 40.9. On the season, Sheppard totaled 105 tackles and two passes defended but of those tackles 13 were for losses or at the line of scrimmage. He had no sacks, a desperate need for the Giants.

The Dolphins traded for former Eagles linebacker Kiko Alonso which will likely slide Kiko Alonso to the middle leaving no need for Sheppard. The Giants have a desperate need for linebackers, but not necessarily another sub par one.

The Giants still have a need for a quality starting middle linebacker, but it appears Jerry Reese is willing to roll the dice with Robinson and Sheppard. If Myles Jack slides in the draft, however, those plans are certain to change.

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