If the NY Giants are going to push for a playoff berth, some unheralded players are going to need to step up and have big seasons in 2021
The 2021 season for the NY Giants could go either way based on several things.
Every team fights injuries, so obviously that; but with the Giants it is if the offensive line holds up. If Daniel Jones takes a huge step forward. If Saquan Barkley finds the form of his rookie year.
With all those questions there are some players who could be poised for a breakout year and will surprise all the experts.
These three NY Giants could surprise, exceed expectations, and have stellar seasons:
NY Giants edge rusher – Azeez Ojulari
The 2021 second round pick out of Georgia was not supposed to be there for the NY Giants by time they were on the clock.
A first-round talent with the speed from the edge to get to the quarterback, Ojulari is my pick for Defensive Rookie of the Year.
At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, Ojulari worried some about his size and strength moving into the NFL.
Ojulari answered those questions on his first play against the New York Jets. Outmatched from a strength standpoint and by over 100 pounds, Ojulari set the edge against Mekhi Becton and made a tackle behind the line of scrimmage. He followed that up with beating Cleveland Browns left tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. several times in a joint practice including a sack of Baker Mayfield.
An injury slowed him for the end of preseason, but the Giants are confident he can be there week one, most likely opposite Lorenzo Carter as a week one starter.