Rookies can matter. The New York Giants could have spent the off-season acquiring a veteran and neglecting to develop younger players. Instead, GM Jerry Reese chose Eli Apple to the chagrin of many Giants fans.
A select few rookies and veterans can provide the necessary momentum to help the Giants reach the playoffs. It was woeful to finish 6-10 in the last two seasons.
Rookies Sterling Shepard, WR
In the preseason Shepard showed promise. In the first two weeks now in the books, Shepard has filled in the void left by a receiving rating that falls within the mediocre range in the league. The Vegas odds were 1.0 in Week 1.
In the first game of the season against the Dallas Cowboys, Shepard delivered on his promise as a rookie to be a useful weapon. He could distract the oppositions secondary to make room for other wide receivers.
Overall, experts are impressed by Shepard for his performance in the first two games.
As GMEN HQ reported recently, Odell Beckham Jr. was solemn in his praise for Sterling:
"“Lights out every game,” Beckham said of Shepard. “Comes up with the big catch, makes the big plays. He’s going to be Rookie of the Year.”"
Like a underrated stock expected to rapidly grow, fans expect Shepard to quickly mature and become a reliable 50 plus pass receiver in every game.
Rookie Eli Apple, CB
Only 22 years old, Apple has time to develop. He was drafted because of his demonstrated maturity, agility and understanding of the game.
In the first two weeks of the season, Apple still needs to prove himself among Giants fans. Most limey, they are currently waiting on WFAN’s phone queue, preparing their unforgiving diatribes.
These same fans have shamed the Giants defensive line for not sewing up from the loss of retired stars. Apple and Spagnuolo will have to spend the practice sessions before week 3’s game against the Washington Redskins in careful study if he is to soften the hardened hearts of Giants faithful.
Veteran Victor Cruz WR
Victor Cruz is among the few Giants wide receivers who could make a sigifnicant contribution. Cruz had a 22.75 yards per reception attribute. He has done this countless times.
Fans will never forget his undisputed ability to find open real estate in the games against the Cowboys and Saints when Odell Beckham would attract all the attention of the opposition given his reputation for garish play and acknowledged uncanny ability to surprise dormant defenses with big games in any situation.
Coming off an injury, Cruz still has experience owing to his veteran status to help the Giants advance toward their goal of a winning season under head coach ben McAdoo.
This season could be different. As Giants communications staff has suggested in their coverage of the team year after year, the right combination of rushing and passing that takes advatange of Shepard and Cruz can translate into a great season.