New York Giants: Top 5 free agent targets in the offseason

3. Shaq Thompson – Outside linebacker, Carolina Panthers

The New York Giants have have lacked a big time playmaker at the linebacker position for over a decade now, since Antonio Pierce retired. They are long overdue to upgrade at the linebacker position, where they have struggled mightily for years. While I’m sure Giant fans are getting sick of Carolina Panthers retreads by this point, this is no Jonathan Stewart situation; Thompson is just 25-years-old and starting to come into his own.

Shaq Thompson could be the first step in making the New York linebacker corps relevant again. The 6’0″ and 230LB Thompson is excellent in coverage, something that the Giants have been lacking for quite some time now. In addition, he can transition to a hybrid safety/linebacker role, something that defensive coordinator James Bettcher loves to employ (if he’s still employed – pun intended – that is).

Thompson has extremely fluid hips, allowing him to provide outstanding coverage against wide receivers, tight ends and running backs. He is exceptional in play action coverage. In addition, the former college running back is not afraid to come up and make a big hit on the ball carrier. His athleticism makes him a prime free agent candidate for Bettcher’s defensive scheme.

New York would be wise to make Thompson a top target of theirs, considering his playmaking abilities. Adding him to a young core of linebackers that includes Lorenzo Carter, Oshane Ximines, and Ryan Connelly would make the Giants linebacker corps scary. He should a decent comtract, but he’s clearly worth it.