Giants Make Big Improvements in Free Agency

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At the opening bell of the NFL's free agency period, the Giants made their mark by adding solid talent that should go a long way in bringing their once proud defense back to prominence. Unlike previous seasons where team general manager Jerry Reese would nickel and dime the roster in an attempt to watch the cap, there was a sense of urgency to do whatever it took to make the team better. There is still bit a money they can spend to add more depth as well as the upcoming draft, but for now things appear to be looking up in Giants Nation.

Olivier Vernon 5 years $85 million

This was by far the biggest move the Giants made, adding a proven pass rusher with great on the ball skills to help their underwhelming defensive line. Vernon not only brings superb tackling to the table, he gives a sense of fear that hasn't been around since the days of Strahan, Umenyiora, and Justin Tuck. ESPN's Dan Graziano believes the Giants may have over spent for Vernon, and in a way he is right, However, considering what they will get out of him as opposed to what they've had, can you blame them?

Janoris Jenkins 5 year $62.5 million

The secondary needed help in the worst way and Jenkins gives the just that. His ball skills and speed are top tier and he provides opposite side help for Rodgers-Cromartie whom had difficulties being the team's only true cover specialists in 2015. Jenkins did admit that he tends to get lazy at the end of games, something that will need to change hastily if he wants to fully earn that large contract. All things considered, this was a great pickup.

Damon Harrison 5 year $46.25 million

The former Jet is a run stopping monster who adds instant credibility and potential to the line. He had 72 combined tackles last season and was often in the backfield stoning running backs for one of the stouter run defenses in the game. The Giants surrendered nearly 2000 yards on the ground last season (1942) and looked helpless against anyone whom had even remotely skilled backs. Harrison should help slow that pace and create hesitation to rush it up the middle.

Keenan Robinson 1 year $3.5 million

Robinson had a down year in 2015 thanks to missing time due to injuries. That doesn't mean the 4th year linebacker isn't talented. He had 109 tackles in 2014 which shows what he can do when healthy, but the Giants had to play it safe. If he can return to form and stay on the field Robinson could be a quiet free agency steal, but ultimately the Giants are going to look elsewhere for their linebacker of the future.

New York Giants: Top Free Agency Targets for 2016

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After making three more roster cuts this week, the Giants are expected to have nearly $60 million in caps space by the start of free agency. This gives them a great chance to upgrade needed areas with top flight talent at almost any expense (emphasis on almost). Who they look to get is up to them, but if Jerry Reese wants to earn back the respect of Giants Nation he will need to make an immediate impact come March. Here are some of the players that could do just that:

Von Miller

The Super Bowl MVP is most likely looking at a franchise tag from the Broncos, but that doesn't mean that he's not looking to cash in on his rising status. For the right price, the Giants could lure him to New York and give an instant upgrade to a position that has been depleted for quite some time.

Muhammad Wilkerson

The lack of pass rushing options was all too prevalent this season and the Giants are desperate for any help they can get. Wilkerson would provide a spark at defensive end with his ability to get to the quarterback. Like Miller, acquiring his services could be a bit pricy, but well worth the effort if he can bring a little noise to the defensive line.

Eric Berry

What a revelation Eric Berry was as he went from fighting cancer to the pro bowl in a little under a year. He could certainly be a big help to a injury prone and lacking secondary that ranked near the bottom of the league. It's obvious Rodgers-Cromartie need all the help he can get and Berry is more than capable of playing on his opposite side.

Bruce Irvin 

Another impact player that would be a staunch addition to the defense. His aggressive style and playmaking ability would certainly give new motivation for Steve Spagnuolo who would jump at the chance to coach him. If he's willing to take the money, the Giants should do all they can to reel him in

Eric Weddle 

He may be on the wrong side of 30 for and athlete but that doesn't mean he's still not one of the better safeties in the NFL. Signing him would be a nice addition to the teams most depleted position in the secondary and give Landon Collins a veteran leader to learn from. He'll be an easier signing since he's most likely just looking for a fresh start, but the team will need to act fast if they want to get him since they won't be the only ones vying for the three time Pro Bowler.

Olivier Vernon

As a power rusher who can disrupt his fair share of plays, Vernon is yet another chance for the Giants to upgrade the defensive line. If they strike out with Wilkerson or Irvin, he could easily step in as the best option. 

Giants Add Depth

        

NFL Free Agency kicked off with a bang as many marquee names changed uniforms and inked large contracts.  As for the Giants, they chose to keep things simple by signing for need.  By signing the likes of LB Johnathan Casillas, OT Marshall Newhouse, LB J.T. Thomas, WR/KR Dwayne Harris, and RB Shane Vereen the Giants were able to address the pressing need of depth, something that has been lacking for the past 4 seasons.  It was important for the tram to not dump all of its cap room on one or two big name free agents.  Doing so would essentially handicap their draft plans, forcing them to reach for potentially underwhelming collegiate talent.

Looking at the teams that have been the most successful, one thing stands out, the talent on their bench.  The Giants have struggled to field players whom can come in and perform in the absence of a starter.  Recognizing this and moving accordingly is a great step towards righting a noticeable flaw. With cap space and the upcoming draft, the chance to upgrade the roster is still available to them. Hopefully this is the start of a recipe for success in the 2015 season and beyond.