Now that Tom Coughlin and Jerry Reese have the Giants’ staff in place, culminating in the introduction of defensive coordinator Perry Fewell yesterday, it’s time to focus on Big Blue’s personnel at this point in the offseason.
Top three issues
1. Rebuild the defense
The cupboard certainly isn’t bare, but the pride and production in 2009 were non-existent. Restoring the swagger and finding help at linebacker and safety are essential.
2. Run for it
Brandon Jacobs is coming off his worst season as a starter and is coming off clean-up knee surgery. Ahmad Bradshaw is a threat when healthy, but he’s got two bad ankles. Rookie Andre Brown missed his first year after tearing his Achilles tendon. An injection of vitality is needed.
3. Mold the line
Not long ago, the most solid unit on the team was the offensive line, but it wore down last season, especially at right tackle (Kareem McKenzie) and left guard (Rich Seubert).
A minor shakeup is probably warranted.
SHOCKEY PLANS TO PLAY IN THIS SUPER BOWL
Top five free-agent targets
Although help is needed in the running game and on the offensive line, expect those needs to be addressed in the draft, and the Giants to spend their free-agent money on the defensive side of the ball.
1. DeMeco Ryans, LB, Texans
Classic tackling-machine middle linebacker is only 25 years old and could plug right in. Barrett Ruud (Buccaneers) is only 26 and also an interesting option.
2. Darren Sharper, S, Saints
Sure, he’s 34, but he had nine interceptions this past season; the entire Giants defense had 13. George Wilson, who played safety in Buffalo for new coordinator Perry Fewell, is also a possibility. Whether or not Kenny Phillips returns to form for the Giants, safety depth will be needed no matter what.
3. Keith Bulluck, LB, Titans
At 32, he’s definitely slowing down, but he’s still a savvy veteran and the Giants could squeeze a year or two out of him.
4. Vince Wilfork, DT, Patriots
The big guy wants a big contract and has warned the Pats not to put the franchise tag on him. Maybe the Giants can take advantage of this unrest.
5. Scott Fujita, LB, Saints
Very solid strong-side linebacker, who has added toughness to the New Orleans defense on display next week in Super Bowl XLIV.
Note: Ryans, Ruud and Wilson would all have their free agency status altered if there is an uncapped 2010 season. They would become restricted free agents and the Giants would owe their former teams compensatory draft picks.