7 New York Giants who could become first-time Pro Bowlers in 2018

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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – DECEMBER 31: Olivier Vernon #54 of the New York Giants sacks Kirk Cousins #8 of the Washington Redskins during the second half at MetLife Stadium on December 31, 2017 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Redskins 18-10. (Photo by Ed Mulholland/Getty Images) /

No. 3 – Olivier Vernon

Olivier Vernon is primed for a breakout year under Big Blue’s new defensive coordinator.

Through six seasons, the 6-foot-2, 262-pound edge rusher has amassed 44.5 sacks, 29 tackles for a loss, and seven forced fumbles. Yet Vernon has never been selected to a Pro Bowl.

He did earn second-team All-Pro honors in his first season with the Giants but has only recorded double-digit sacks once. That came back in 2013 when Vernon was with the Miami Dolphins.

Despite the lack of double-digit sack seasons, Vernon consistently gets pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In 2016, he finished second in the league in quarterback pressures (86), according to Pro Football Focus.

The seven-year veteran battled injuries for most of last season, missing four games. If he can stay healthy, his new defensive coordinator plans to set him up for success.

"“OV, we know is a dynamic guy. A guy that can rush from different angles, a guy that you can move around and put in different matchups. And he’s embraced everything that we’ve done to this point. I’ve loved working with him and I think he’s making some great progress, not just in this scheme, but I think as I’ve looked at him as a player, he’s sharpening his tools right now.”"

Bettcher just helped Chandler Jones achieve a career-year in Arizona. Giants fans are hoping he can do the same with Vernon in New York.

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