New York Giants: Top 5 acquisitions based on instant impact
By Henry Buggy
Big Blue held their highest draft selection since 1981 and added plenty of value to the roster with their six picks. New York Giants first-year general manager Dave Gettleman landed multiple coveted free agents while addressing some of the team’s biggest weaknesses.
Gettleman also pulled off some significant trades in his first offseason. The G-Men shipped Jason Pierre-Paul to Tampa Bay and acquired a 2016 second-team All-Pro linebacker in Alec Ogletree. The Giants also made upgrades within their special teams.
New York acquired punter Riley Dixon through a trade with the Denver Broncos. The Giants also signed special teams ace and safety Michael Thomas to a two-year contract.
While the Giants had one of the league’s best offseason, Big Blue also lost plenty of talent in free agency. Justin Pugh, Weston Richburg, Devon Kennard, and Ross Cockrell all signed with new teams.
The Giants still appear to be a better team heading into the 2018 season, at least on paper.
Gettleman revamped New York’s offensive line. He added players who fit James Bettcher’s defense and made depth at multiple positions a priority.
The Giants will look for many of their new players to immediately make an impact on the field. Big Blue is also counting on multiple players who struggled last season to step up in 2018.
Here’s a look at New York’s top five acquisitions based on their projected instant impact this upcoming season.