The New York Giants underwent a change at head coach promoting offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo in the process. New York was also busy in free agency adding Olivier Vernon and Janoris Jenkins in the process. Can the Giants make the postseason this year for the first time since 2011?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Larry Donnell vs. Will Tye
Donnell was thought to be the savior at tight end for a time before suffering a neck injury that almost lost him his career. Tye of course surged in Donnell’s absence making this an interesting battle to kick off 2016. Blocking could be a factor but I expect Tye to get the first crack as he is carrying momentum from last season. Rookies Jerell Adams and Ryan Malleck could also have a say with strong preseason performances.
2. Runningback: It’s a long list……
Rashad Jennings, Shane Vereen, Andre Williams, Paul Perkins, Orleans Darkwa, and Bobby Rainey are all on the roster. Jennings is the favorite to start but each back has their own strong points. Vereen is the pass catcher, Williams the goal line guy, etc. Perkins figures to be the only lock to make the roster for sure as he is a rookie with some potential.
3. Safety: Darian Thompson vs. Nat Berhe
Cooper Taylor, Mykkele Thompson, Darian Thompson, Bennett Jackson and Nat Berhe are the five guys the team has to choose from. Thus far Thompson and Berhe have gotten first team reps. Landon Collins of course is the shoe in strong safety.
Ready To Breakout: Dwayne Harris
This was a tough one to pick simply because general manager Jerry Reese has not drafted well. Harris caught a career high 36 catches in 2015 after spending 4 years in Dallas where he wasn’t utilized very often. Harris always seems to make big plays in the special teams game and could become a bigger factor on offense this season.
Fantasy Sleeper: Sterling Shepard
Many people tend to believe Shepard is the next Tyler Lockett. I can’t really argue with the comparisons as they it is very possible that happens. The Giants think they have another star to pair with Odell Beckham.
Rookie To Watch: Eli Apple
The Giants made a questionable decision when they decided to draft Eli Apple over Vernon Hargreaves. Only time will tell if they made the right choice. The former Ohio State alum is a long press corner who should start day one.
The Giants are likely mediocre again in 2016 despite a busy offseason. I’m not a believer in the McAdoo hire and their defense may not be as good as advertised.
