New York Giants: Offensive Linemen To Consider In Free Agency
Ricky Wagner
Position: Offensive Tackle
Age: 27 (10/21/1989)
Experience: Four Seasons
Previous Team: Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are expected to make re-signing Ricky Wagner a top priority during the 2016 offseason. Wagner has become one of the more impressive offensive tackles in the NFL with borderline elite protection for the passing attack.
Wagner is an erratic player when blocking for the run, but his potential ability to protect Eli Manning is reason enough to make a run at signing him.
If New York attempts to do so, the price could be steep.
Ravens made an early attempt to get RT Ricky Wagner re-signed. Initial offer was rebuffed. He and Brandon Williams two FAs they want to keep
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) February 13, 2017
Wagner is erratic in run blocking, but he’s one of the Top 10 pass protectors at his position. Some may be inclined to believe improving the run game should be the top priority, and those who believe so aren’t necessarily in the wrong.
Protecting a 36-year-old Eli Manning means extending his career, however, and that alone is reason to believe Wagner is a rational target.
New York needs to give Manning time to sit back in the pocket and utilize the weapons Jerry Reese has provided him with. Odell Beckham Jr., Paul Perkins, and Sterling Shepard are all dynamic options in the passing attack, but Manning needs to have enough time in the pocket to find them.
If the Giants are going to improve at offensive tackle, then they must know that Wagner is one of the few quality options in free agency.