Despite major offseason spending and an NFL Draft class many view among the most impressive in the NFL, some are skeptical the NY Giants improve in 2021
The NY Giants were among the biggest spenders in free agency, likely added at least two immediate starters in the 2021 NFL Draft, but all those changes might not make the impact the organization hopes.
There is no doubt that the supporting cast around Giants quarterback Daniel Jones will be the most dynamic that he’s had at his disposal as he enters his third NFL season, and the defense should be better after pairing outside cornerback Adoree’ Jackson opposite Pro Bowler James Bradberry.
But, as the 2021 NFL season comes screaming down the tracks like a jail on wheels, it is fair to wonder if all those marquee additions to translate into more wins and a return to the postseason for the first time since 2016.
Pro Football Focus is skeptical. Very skeptical.
The Giants have the 26th ranked roster in the NFL, according to PFF, even after adding the likes of Kenny Golladay, Jackson, first-round pick Kadarius Toney, tight end Kyle Rudolph, among others.
PFF gives the NY Giants just a .8 percent chance of winning the Super Bowl, which is probably fair, given that in the NFC alone teams such as the Green Bay Packers (presuming Aaron Rodgers isn’t traded), Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks, and and Los Angeles Rams are all likely far closer to unseating Tom Brady and the defending Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers than the NY Giants are.
Who is the NY Giants’ best player?
Coming off a Pro Bowl appearance in his first season after signing with the NY Giants as a free agent, cornerback James Bradberry is listed as New York’s highest-graded player, according to PFF.
Arguably the NY Giants’ most dominant — and important — defensive player last season, Bradberry garnered a 79.8 overall grade from Pro Football Focus, while producing 51 total tackles, three interceptions, and holding opposing quarterbacks to a meager 70.1 passer rating when targeting him.
Bradberry has the potential to be even more productive this season, given the addition of Jackson opposite him in the secondary and the projected development of 2020 second-round choice Xavier McKinney in the slot.
With Bradberry, Jackson, McKinney, Jabrill Peppers, and Logan Ryan projected to start, and quality contributions down the depth chart from the likes of Darnay Holmes, Julian Love, and rookie Aaron Robinson, the NY Giants’ secondary has the potential to be among the most improved in the NFL this season.
Matt Lombardo is FanSided’s National NFL Insider, and writes Between The Hash Marks each Wednesday. Email Matt: Matt.Lombardo@FanSided.com, Follow Matt on Twitter: @MattLombardoNFL