The NY Giants remain devoid of a proven dominant pass-rusher, but several remaining NFL free agents could give the defense a boost this season
Since the days of Justin Tuck and Jason Pierre-Paul drifted away, the NY Giants have been scratching and clawing to put together a formidable pass rush.
Defensive coordinator, Patrick Graham, used his intelligence to scheme up a pass rush at times last season – but unfortunately had to sacrifice other parts of his defense to do so. On the field, Leonard Williams was a godsend in 2020 – shattering all expectations on his way to 11.5 sacks.
The Giants’ brass bolstered their talent this off-season – bringing in Ifeadi Odenigbo and Azeez Ojulari. The calvary is coming back as well, as Oshane Ximines and Lorenzo Carter will both be returning.
The burning question – is that enough?
With some interesting names still unsigned, the Giants should take a flyer on one to help bolster their unit. With so many question marks littered throughout, it could mean the difference between a legitimate pass rush – or more of the same.
Here are the top 4 bargain pass rushers still available that the NY Giants should sign:
Adrian Clayborn
Since coming into the National Football League in 2011, Adrian Clayborn has always made the most of his opportunities.
He’s never going to be an every down pass-rusher, but he’s going to get his when he’s in the game. He has the occasional takeover game as well – he once had six sacks in one game as a member of the Atlanta Falcons against the Dallas Cowboys.
Clayborn’s gotten a Super Bowl ring with the New England Patriots, and bounced around with a second stint in Atlanta and then one year with the Cleveland Browns since then. If he can join the NY Giants, he could provide valuable veteran leadership – along with his pass rushing skills.
Graham would love to find situations to deploy his new secret weapon in Clayborn.