New York Giants Roster 2018 Giants Roster

Can Barkley Carry the Giants Back to Glory?

Another year, and yet another disappointing season for the New York Giants. An unfriendly schedule, a slew of injuries, and coaching inconsistencies led to a 3-13 season. Their losing record was trumped by the Cleveland Browns who failed to win a game last season. When a team is up against the odds, the only place to look is up. This was the mentality heading into the off-season. The Giants did create some waves this off-season and we'll start with the new-looked offense.

The Giants finished at the bottom of the league in nearly all recorded rushing statistics last season. This can be attributed to the younger backs being forced into leadership and heavy usage positions. The team's best running back was Shane Vereen, a pass catcher first and a runner second. Keeping this information at the front of their mind, the team acted on draft day. Saquon Barkley was selected with 2nd overall pick, making him one of the highest selected backs in recent history. This talent helps fill the void and then some for their struggling rushing program. Barkley has size, can handle large portions of workload and usage, gets downfield quickly, and rarely turns the ball over. He has all the tangibles needed to succeed within the league and he'll be utilized as a lead player within their offense.

When drafting a promising rusher, the task than turns to the means of protection. These blockers help keep Eli safe and open up lanes for Barkley, helping him to thrive within his rookie season. The team started their trek for blockers with the signing of Nate Solder. This left tackle has been featured across multiple Pro Bowls, and his protection percentages usually place him in the top 10 of all tackle discussions. This was a key move for a team that required depth at this valuable position. He is also seasoned within the league and has a football-centered mentality. His experience and play is a much welcomed addition to this squad. The team also moved up on draft day to select Will Hernandez, a guard out of UTEP. Due to the limited coverage of program at UTEP, Hernandez fell into the lap of the Giants at a deep discount. The tape doesn't lie, and Hernandez will be placed within a starting role at day one.

Contractual obligations were a cloud of haze that threatened to rain on this promising off-season. Odell Beckham Jr. and Eli Apple were both engaged in contract talks, but neither side could come to terms. Once training camp started, both players reported, placing a sigh of relief across the entire organization. Both of these playmakers are instrumental pieces on their respective sides of the ball. The offense has run through Odell these past few seasons, opening the opportunity for role players such as Evan Engram and Sterling Shepard. This is a huge burden lifted off new head coach Pat Shurmur's shoulders. The team can now proceed as planned, with nothing to hold them back.

A reliable secondary and a new linebacker addition headlines the notes for the defense. Landon Collins and Janoris Jenkins have been consistent talents for the team. Their development pace is off the charts and they are settling into the set schemes nicely. The welcomed addition to the team came via trade with the Rams. Alec Ogletree is added to a linebacker core that could use a boost. Ogletree is placed in a position that allows him to fluctuate his skill set, setting the proper pace and usage for a higher performance. He fits the mold of the defense perfectly and opens the door for new play calling additions.