Their Defense Will Remain A Strongsuit
Last year, the forte and heart and soul of the Giants was their defense. Thanks to free agent signees (Olivier Vernon, Damon Harrison, Janoris Jenkins) as well as veterans Jason Pierre-Paul and corner Dominque Rodgers-Cromartie, the Giants defense was among the league’s best, especially against the run. The Giants defense gave up the third lowest yards per game on the ground, surrendering just 88.6 yards per game. In addition to their pressure on the line, the Giants watched two secondary pieces blossom in 2016.
Rookie corner Eli Apple was as pleasant as the year progressed, becoming a lockdown cover corner. Safety Landon Collins also impressed.
Second-year man Landon Collins performed at elite standards in 2016. Leading the Giants in combined tackles (125), and recording four sacks, as well as five interceptions, Collins broke out to become one of the best defensive players in the NFL. Collins’ heroics helped him be the runner up for defensive player of the year, and also participate in the NFL Pro Bowl.
The star-studded Giants defense will remain intact for the most part in 2017. The odd man out though will likely be tackle Jonathan Hankins, who is likely out of the Giants price range given the limited amount of cap space at their disposal.
With the defense remaining intact, the question arises regarding whether or not the Giants offense will step up in 2017?
