The 2023 NFL season was not fun for the New York Giants. They had the worst offensive line in the league, which is evidenced by the use of three different quarterbacks throughout the season because of injuries.
They also missed the playoffs after making the postseason in 2022 under head coach Brian Daboll, which is a huge disappointment and a fall from expectations.
Then there was the off-field drama, which is a whole different story.
But the Giants know the season was a dumpster fire, they know that adjustments have to be made and are actively looking for solutions.
According to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan, the Giants are “most actively gauging” the guard and edge rusher markets in free agency.
Speaking to sources at the combine the two positions the Giants seem to be most actively gauging the market on for free agency: guard and edge rusher.
Obviously fixing the offensive line is a priority. See them signing a quality starting guard (maybe $8M range).
Also looking…
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) March 2, 2024
Raanan adds that the offensive line is a priority, as it should be. Money will have to be spent there, especially if general manager Joe Schoen is dead-set on standing behind Daniel Jones, who has already endured several injuries.
Not only will Jones be put at further risk if he is not protected, but the Giants will have no hope of improving. This needs to be the team’s top priority this offseason, whether that be through the draft, free agency, or both.
While not great, the Giants’ defense was better than the offense last year. But there is still plenty of room for improvement, especially on the edge.
Kayvon Thibodeaux is young, and while he’s improving, he can’t do it alone. As Raanan mentioned, Azeez Ojulari is coming off of a down year, but it’s a contract year so he will need to play well if he wants to re-sign with the Giants or land a significant deal somewhere else.
There are several areas of opportunity for the Giants to work on this offseason, but the offensive line has to be at the top. Having a good quarterback means nothing if he’s not protected.
