New York Giants: Top 10 needs after FA signings, trades

#5 – 3-4 Defensive End

The transition to Bettcher’s 3-4 defense has created plenty of questions this offseason. The Giants have answered a few of those questions already, signing outside linebacker Kareem Martin and defensive lineman Josh Mauro.

Mauro is projected to start at defensive end opposite second-year defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson. Damon Harrison is expected to transition back to nose tackle, a position he dominated when playing with the New York Jets.

The three defensive linemen should fit nicely in Bettcher’s defense, but the player with the most experience under Big Blue’s new defensive coordinator won’t be available for the team’s first four games.

Mauro has been suspended for a violation of the league’s performance-enhancing substances policy. Gettleman and New York’s coaching staff knew of Mauro’s four-game suspension before signing him to a one-year deal.

The Giants do have some replacement options on their roster, but adding a 3-4 defensive end in the draft should be among their priorities. With Mauro only under a one-year contract, New York’s front office needs to plan for the future as well.

Kerry Wynn and Romeo Okwara are two players on New York’s roster that have the ability and size to move inside. The Giants re-signed Wynn on a one-year contract this offseason. A move inside may be in his best interest. He has proven himself a strong run defender in year’s past but has struggled as a pass rusher.

Adding a 3-4 defensive end is unlikely to be Gettleman’s top priority ahead of the draft, but it is clearly a need for Big Blue.

The Giants will have options in the mid-rounds with Week 1 starter potential. Harrison Phillips, B.J. Hill, Rasheem Green, Da’Shawn Hand, and Breeland Speaks are some prospects that could fit Bettcher’s defense as 3-4 defensive ends. All five will probably still be on the board entering the second day of the draft.