5 underrated NY Giants who can make a massive impact next season
By George Baker
After a disappointing 2023, the New York Giants roster has taken a new shape heading into the 2024 season. With several new acquisitions on both sides of the ball, the G-Men hope to return to their 2022 form, where hard-nosed football led them to a Wild Card Round win.
With that said, Joe Schoen and Co. made several key acquisitions to aid their pursuit of success next campaign. While some big names, like Brian Burns, garnered national media attention, several under-the-radar moves could move the needle next fall. Here are five underrated Giants who can make a massive difference next season and help the team return to the playoffs:
5. OT Jermaine Eluemunor
After signing a two-year, $14 million contract with the Giants during free agency, Jermaine Eluemunor has struggled to contain his excitement about the opportunity to suit up for the G-Men. After watching the Giants play in Wembley Stadium as a 13-year-old Londoner, Eluemunor remembers the awe of seeing Big Blue for the first time.
As things come full circle, and Eluemunor will suit up for the Giants 17 years after that game, he has not been shy in showing his gratitude and appreciation for the fans and the organization as a whole.
Just want to say Thank you Giants Fans for all the love yall have shown me since I signed! I have all the motivation I need going into this season but the love y’all have shown just makes me want to give everything I have for this franchise that much more. Thank you 💙
— Jermaine Eluemunor (@TheMainShow_) March 19, 2024
Now, while the feel-good story is fun, don't sleep on Eluemunor's ability to make a real impact on the field. With Evan Neal being incredibly shaky at right tackle, Eluemunor can slide into the starter position and provide an immediate veteran presence. Fortunately, one of Elumunor's greatest assets is his ability to play multiple positions up front and even shift from guard to tackle. Having primarily played tackle during his tenure with the Raiders, expect a true competition between Eluemunor and Neal to decide who ultimately ends up earning the job.
If nothing else, Eluemunor can be a solid utility piece to help players like Neal develop into their best selves. With arguably the league's best defensive line to face in practice every day, expect the Giants' O-Line to be much improved next season, in large part due to the addition of Eluemunor.