The New York Giants are fresh off an 11-5 season and will look to improve as they look to win the division in 2017. New York added Brandon Marshall in the offseason to give Odell Beckham a side kick along with Sterling Sheppard in the slot. The Giants also had one of the best defenses in the NFL a year ago. Heading into training camp in 2017, what should you keep an eye on?
3 Position Battles To Watch:
- Left Tackle: Ereck Flowers, DJ Fluker, Adam Bisnowaty
Something needs to change at left tackle for the Giants. Ereck Flowers blocks like a running back and is regarded as one of the worst tackles in the sport. The problem is New York doesn’t have any depth behind him. DJ Fluker is a right tackle only and played guard primarily with the Chargers. Bisnowaty also is likely destined to play guard after a really poor Senior Bowl showing.
2. Backup Quarterback: Davis Webb, Geno Smith, Josh Johnson
Eli Manning is getting up there in age so the Giants need to have a long term plan in place. Davis Webb was my quarterback to watch coming into the season so make sure to keep an eye on him this preseason. If Webb isn’t ready, the Giants will keep one of Geno Smith or Josh Johnson.
3. Defensive Tackle: Dalvin Tomlinson, Robert Thomas
Tomlinson comes to town as the team’s second round pick on Alabama. Thomas was a solid player, however, as Tomlinson is not a lock to get the job right away. Then again, Tomlinson will likely be a nice rotation piece out of the gates given the fact that his knee issues have flared up in the past.
Ready To Breakout: Landon Collins
I’m not sure anyone realizes just how good Landon Collins is. Collins, 23, is your modern day version of the strong safety position. In 2016, the former Alabama safety recorded 4 sacks, 5 interceptions, and 125 tackles. Collins is the best strong safety no one pays any attention to and will really cement his place in 2017. Collins ability to repeat his amazing season hold the keys to the Giants defensive success.
Rookie To Watch: Evan Engram
Engram is essentially a glorified receiver that plays tight end. Engram lit up the clocks at the 40-yard dash at the combine. Engram is a safe pick in the first-round and gives the Giants a target in the middle of the field. For the first time since the days of Jeremy Shockey, the Giants have an impact tight end.
Fantasy Sleeper: Paul Perkins
Perkins burst onto the scene a year ago and was the bell cow towards the end of the year. Perkins rushed for 456 yards on 112 carries a year ago. Shane Vereen will keep his 3rd down role. Wayne Gallman may be the Paul Perkins of this year if Perkins struggles.
