The regular season is in the books. Let's see what the Giants' rookie class did in 2020. All advanced statistics are courtesy of Pro Football Focus.
Andrew Thomas
After a slow start to the season, Thomas improved his play in the season's final 2 1/2 months. Thomas allowed at least four pressures in six of his first seven games. Over the final nine games, he only allowed four pressures in a game three times; 39 of the 60 pressures he allowed came in the first seven games. He allowed no pressures in three of his final six games.
Over the course of the season, Thomas allowed ten sacks, nine quarterback hits, and 41 quarterback hurries. He finished with a 94.3 pass block efficiency and a 9.8% pressure rate. In his final nine games, those numbers improve to a 96.2 pass blocking efficiency and a 6.1% pressure rate.
There was improvement from Thomas throughout the year in his technique, which limited the number of times he got beat inside.
"For me," Thomas said, "the thing that stands out the most would probably be the inside move. Obviously, in the beginning, that was something I really struggled with. With oversetting, that's something I've been working on over the last few weeks trying to get better at. I think that's made the biggest difference."
Xavier McKinney
A foot injury kept McKinney off the field until Week 12, when the Giants visited Cincinnati. He only played 26 snaps (12 on defense) the first two weeks. He played 131 snaps from Week 14 through Week 16, with all but two snaps coming on defense. He finished the year playing a career-high 80 snaps (74 on defense) against the Cowboys.
The Giants were not afraid to line him up in different areas of the field. He had 82 snaps at free safety, and 84 as the nickel. He also played 47 snaps around the line of scrimmage and inside the tackle box. His versatility allowed him to act as a man-coverage player, deep zone player, short zone player, and helper against the run.
McKinney had an interception (and another that was called back) and a pass defended in coverage. In his six games, he allowed seven reception on 10 targets for only 47 yards. He finished the year with 24 tackles and two quarterback hurries.
On special teams, McKinney played on the kick return, kick coverage and punt return units.
Matt Peart
The third-round pick did not have any starts, but he played 169 snaps over 11 games, but missed some time due to being put on the COVID-19 list and a late-season ankle injury.
Peart played 104 of his snaps on the offensive line, mostly rotating in for Cam Fleming at right tackle. He also played 39 snaps at left tackle and 10 as an eligible receiver as a jumbo tight end. As a special teams player, he was used 16 times on field goal and extra-point snaps.
In Peart's 84 pass protection snaps, he allowed two sacks, two quarterback hits, and five hurries. He had a pass block efficiency rate of 93.5 and allowed a pass rush percentage of 10.7%. A full NFL off-season in which he can continue to get stronger and hone his technique could put him in position to complete for a full-time role in 2021.
View some of the best photos of the Giants' rookies throughout the 2020 season as the team enters the offseason.
OT Andrew Thomas
S Xavier McKinney
OT Matt Peart
CB Darnay Holmes
G Shane Lemieux
LB Cam Brown
LB Carter Coughlin
LB T.J. Brunson
LB Tae Crowder
WR Austin Mack
DB Madre Harper
DE Niko Lalos
OL Kyle Murphy (recently signed off Giants practice squad, where he spent the first nine weeks of the season)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Andrew Thomas (78)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium onOctober 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 1 regular season Monday Night football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at MetLife Stadium on September 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) protects the passer during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants tackle Andrew Thomas (78) prepares for the snap during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during an NFL regular season football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020 in Philadelphia. The Eagles won, 22-21. (Ric Tapia via AP)
New York Giants offensive lineman Abdrew Thomas (78) blocks during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers defeated the Giants 25-23. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) during a NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Monday Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) blocks during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. Philadelphia won 22-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) makes a move to block on the line of scrimmage during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 22-21. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) catches the ball in the endzone during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive lineman Andrew Thomas (78) blocks during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020 in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams defeated the Giants 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) lines up on the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. Dallas won 37-34. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants offensive lineman Andrew Thomas (78) blocks during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020 in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams defeated the Giants 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) in action against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
New York Giants tight end Levine Toilolo (85) and Nick Gates (65) celebrate with Andrew Thomas (78) who caught a pass for a two-point conversion in the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
Shane Lemieux (66), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants offensive lineman Andrew Thomas is pictured during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) in action during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants offensive tackle Andrew Thomas (78) in action during an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Andrew Thomas (78)
Andrew Thomas (78),
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Xavier McKinney (29)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 15 regular season football game against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on December 20th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Xavier McKinney (29)
Xavier McKinney (29)
Xavier McKinney (29)
Xavier McKinney (29)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday Dec.13, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a week 15 regular season football game against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on December 20th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) warmups up prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
Xavier McKinney (29)
Xavier McKinney (29)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) leaves the tunnel before a NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday Dec.13, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) runs in pursuit during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Xavier McKinney (29), Niko Lalos (57)
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a training camp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Monday August 24, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a training camp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Sunday August 16, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants safety Xavier McKinney (29) during a training camp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Wednesday August 19, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a NFL football game against the Washington Football Team Sunday Oct.18, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants tackle Matt Peart (74) blocks during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants tackle Matt Peart (74) blocks during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Andrew Thomas (78), Matt Peart (74)
Riley Dixon (9), Graham Gano (5), Matt Peart (74)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium on October 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Matt Peart (74)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) and tackle Matt Peart (74) before a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive lineman Matt Peart (74) blocks during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers defeated the Giants 25-23. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a training camp scrimmage at Met Life Stadium on Friday August 28, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) walks towards the sideline during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020, in Inglewood, Calif. Rams won 17-9. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) battles with Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Shaquil Barrett (58) during an NFL game, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) battles with Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (93) during an NFL game, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) signals prior to the play during an NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants kicker Graham Gano (5) is high-fived by New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) after making a field goal during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Matt Peart (74)
New York Giants tackle Matt Peart (77) prepares to block during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Matt Peart (74)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) in action during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants offensive tackle Matt Peart (74) during a week 10 regular season football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on November 15th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants' Darnay Holmes (30) jumps on a loose ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Dexter Lawrence (97), Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30), James Bradberry (24)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Darnay Holmes (30)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) celebrates during an NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Darnay Holmes (30)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) during the second half of an NFL football game in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) lines up against Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Chase Claypool (11) during an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants defensive back Darnay Holmes (30) waits for the snap during an NFL football game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2020 in Inglewood, Calif. The Rams defeated the Giants 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) lines up against San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Trent Taylor (15) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) warmups up prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants defensive back Darnay Holmes (30) celebrates with teammates after making an interception during the second half an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
Darnay Holmes (30)
New York Giants defensive back Darnay Holmes is pictured during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
Leonard Williams (99), Darnay Holmes (30), Julian Love (20)
Darnay Holmes (30)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) hits Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Brandon Allen (8) as he throws a pass during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) intercepts a ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020 in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Alika Jenner via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) during a week 10 regular season football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on November 15th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants cornerback Darnay Holmes (30) hits Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Brandon Allen (8) as he throws a pass during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Monday Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Cameron Fleming (75), Shane Lemieux (66)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) blocks during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Shane Lemieux (66)
Wayne Gallman (22), Shane Lemieux (66)
New York Giants offensive lineman Shane Lemieux (66) blocks during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 2, 2020 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers defeated the Giants 25-23. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) blocks during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) blocks during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Wayne Gallman (22), Shane Lemieux (66), Nick Gates (65)
Andrew Thomas (78), Shane Lemieux (66)
New York Giants offensive guard Shane Lemieux (66) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Wayne Gallman (22), Shane Lemieux (66), Nick Gates (65)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a training camp scrimmage at Met Life Stadium on Friday August 28, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a week 10 regular season football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on November 15th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) in action during the first half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants offensive guard Shane Lemieux in action against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
New York Giants offensive guard Shane Lemieux (66) and quarterback Daniel Jones (8) react to a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Shane Lemieux (66)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a week 15 regular season football game against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on December 20th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) look on before an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
Shane Lemieux (66), Andrew Thomas (78)
Shane Lemieux (66)
New York Giants guard Shane Lemieux (66) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium on October 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Madre Harper (45), Austin Mack (81), Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
Carter Coughlin (49), Cam Brown (47)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) and defensive end Leonard Williams (99) celebrate during an NFL game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Monday, Nov. 02, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Buccaneers beat the Giants 25-23. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Cam Brown (47)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium on October 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a training camp scrimmage at Met Life Stadium on Friday August 28, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) prepares for the snap during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) in action against the San Francisco 49ers during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 27, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) and New York Giants running back Elijhaa Penny (39) celebrate during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20 (Amanda Bowen via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium on October 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Cam Brown (47), Xavier McKinney (29), Montre Hartage (36)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) in action on defense against the Cincinnati Bengals during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants defeated the Bengals 19-17. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Cam Brown (47), Blake Martinez (54)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) applies pressure to Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) during a NFL football game Sunday Nov. 15, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Cam Brown (47) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Cam Brown (47)
Cam Brown (47)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants' Carter Coughlin (49) before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 22-21. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Leonard Williams (99), Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Cam Brown (47), TJ Brunson (35), Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) prepares for the kickoff during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Carter Coughlin (49)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) runs down field during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a training camp scrimmage at Met Life Stadium on Friday August 28, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) leaves the field after an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Tae Crowder (48), Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) in action during an NFL football game Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Dec. 13, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) in action during an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Carter Coughlin (49)
Carter Coughlin (49)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a week 15 regular season football game against the Cleveland Browns at MetLife Stadium on December 20th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin reacts after a sack during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) is sacked by New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020 in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Alika Jenner via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin is pictured during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin walks on the field against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
New York Giants linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) pressures Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020 in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Alika Jenner via AP)
TJ Brunson (35)
New York Giants linebacker T.J. Brunson (35) makes a move on the field in kick coverage during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 22-21. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants linebacker T.J. Brunson (35) prepares for the snap during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
TJ Brunson (35)
New York Giants linebacker T.J. Brunson (35) during a training camp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Friday August 14, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker T.J. Brunson (35) during a practice at the NFL football team's training camp in East Rutherford, N.J., Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants linebacker T.J. Brunson (35) during a training camp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Sunday August 16, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
TJ Brunson (35)
TJ Brunson (35)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) wraps up Washington Football Team wide receiver Isaiah Wright (83) during a week 6 regular season football game at MetLife Stadium onOctober 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Julian Love (20), Madre Harper (45), Tae Crowder (48), Jabrill Peppers (21)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) drops into coverage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium on October 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) returns a fumble for a touchdown during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium onOctober 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) returns a fumble for a touchdown during a week 6 regular season football game against the Washington Football Team at MetLife Stadium onOctober 18th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during a week 3 regular season football game against the San Francisco 49ers at MetLife Stadium on September 27h, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) on the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) returns a fumble for a touchdown during a NFL football game against the Washington Football Team Sunday Oct.18, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) forces Washington Football Team wide receiver Isaiah Wright (83) out of bounds during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct.18, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 20-19. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Emilee Chinn)
Julian Love (20), Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48), Logan Ryan (23)
Tae Crowder (48)
Blake Martinez (54), Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) warms up before an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48), Carter Coughlin (49)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
Baltimore Ravens running back Gus Edwards (35) is brought down by New York Giants linebacker Tae Crowder (48) and defensive end B.J. Hill (95) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. The Ravens won 27-13. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Tae Crowder (48)
Tae Crowder (48)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
Austin Mack (81)
Philadelphia Eagles' Avonte Maddox (29) tackles New York Giants' Austin Mack (81) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Daniel Jones (8), Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) breaks from the line during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Oct. 18, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) runs down field against Washington Football Team cornerback Ronald Darby (23) in the first half of an NFL football game between the New York Giants and Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) in action during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) makes a catch during warm ups prior to an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 22-21. (Perry Knotts via AP)
Daniel Jones (8), Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack stands on the field against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
Austin Mack (81)
Sterling Shepard (87), Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) in action during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Jan. 3, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) plays the field during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants wide receiver Austin Mack (81) leaves the field after an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
Austin Mack (81)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) during a week 8 regular season Monday Night football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at MetLife Stadium on November 2nd, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) prepares for the snap during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) and linebacker Carter Coughlin (49) wait for the kickoff during an NFL game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 37-34. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) in coverage during warm ups prior to an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Oct. 22, 2020, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 22-21. (Perry Knotts via AP)
Madre Harper (45)
Madre Harper (45)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) sprints downfield during an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Nov. 8, 2020, in Landover, MD. The Giants defeated Washington 23-20. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Madre Harper (45)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) stands on the field during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020 in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Alika Jenner via AP)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper jogs on the field against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
Madre Harper (45)
Defensive back Madre Harper #45 of the New York Giants prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Emilee Chinn)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) warmups up prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
Madre Harper (45)
New York Giants cornerback Madre Harper (45) warmups up prior to an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants won 19-17. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos (57) celebrates with teammates after he recovered a fumble by Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (not shown) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
Isaac Yiadom (27), Dalvin Tomlinson (94), Niko Lalos (57), Tae Crowder (48), Darnay Holmes (30), David Mayo (55), Leonard Williams (99), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Isaac Yiadom (27), Niko Lalos (57), Dalvin Tomlinson (94), Leonard Williams (99)
Niko Lalos (57)
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos in action against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
Cam Brown (47), Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos is pictured during the second half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants won 17-12. (AP Photo/Stephen Brashear)
Niko Lalos (57)
New York Giants players celebrate after an interception by defensive lineman Niko Lalos (57) during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. The Giants defeated the Bengals 19-17. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
Niko Lalos (57)
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos (57) during a week 14 regular season football game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on December 13th, 2020 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos looks on against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Larry Maurer)
New York Giants defensive end Niko Lalos (57) in action during the second half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Dec. 27, 2020, in Baltimore. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants linebacker Niko Lalos (57) displays that he recovered a fumble during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Dec. 6, 2020, in Seattle. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 17-12. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
Darnay Holmes
Holmes played in 12 games and missed Week 7 due to a neck injury, Weeks 14-15 due to a knee injury, and Week 16 due to a coach's decision; 396 of his 459 snaps came as a nickel. He also played 17 snaps on the outside, 33 in the box, and three at safety.
Holmes had an interception and five passes defended. He allowed 43 receptions on 57 targets for 428 yards without a touchdown. He showed himself as an aggressive blitzer with a half-sack, two quarterback hits, and two quarterback hurries. He had 30 tackles on the season.
Shane Lemieux
Lemieux stepped in as the starting left guard in Week 8 after Will Hernandez was placed on the COVID-19 list. He started nine straight games to close the season, occasionally sharing some time with Hernandez. Lemieux played 13 of his 547 snaps at right guard and four as a fullback. All but 20 of his offensive snaps were at left guard. He also played 28 snaps on field goal and extra-point teams.
In 299 pass blocking snaps, Lemieux allowed five sacks, eight quarterback hits, and 15 quarterback hurries. He had a 94.5 pass block efficiency and a 9.4% pressure percentage. It would be surprising if Lemieux was not given the opportunity to compete for another significant role next year.
Cam Brown
Brown, a sixth-round draft pick, played in every game except for the season opener. He was a core special teams player - 320 of his 413 snaps were split between kick return, kick overage, punt return, punt coverage, and field goal block.
His 93 defensive snaps were spent primarily as a stand-up edge player; 56 snaps as the left outside linebacker and 33 snaps on the right. He also played two snaps in the slot and another two at inside linebacker.
Brown was used as a pass rusher on 70 of his 93 defensive snaps, primarily in obvious passing situations. He didn't have a sack, but finished with three quarterback hits and four quarterback hurries. He had a tackle for no gain and two others on 18 snaps as a run defender. He was used in coverage on six snaps.
There's every reason to think that Brown's length and athleticism will keep him as a staple on special teams. If he can develop his technique as a defender, he might be able to build on the 38 defensive snaps he played on the edge over the season's final two weeks.
Carter Coughlin
Coughlin began the season primarily as a special teams player, but worked his way into a larger role. Of his 194 defensive snaps, 110 came in Week 13 against Seattle and Week 14 against Arizona. He finished the season playing 51 defensive snaps over the final three weeks of the season.
All but 31 of Coughlin's defensive snaps came as an edge rusher, with 93 on the right side of the defense and 70 on the left. In 98 pass rushing snaps, he finished with one sack, two quarterback hits and 12 total pressures. He also lined up as a stand-up inside linebacker and "joker" pass rusher 26 times.
Coughlin was dropped into coverage 41 times and allowed six catches for 63 yards. He played against the run on 54 snaps, and finished with 14 tackles and two tackles for loss.
Coughlin was a staple on kick return and kick coverage, playing 64 snaps in coverage and 59 on the return team. He also played 17 snaps on punt return and seven on the field goal block team.
At 6'4 and 245 pounds, Coughlin has the athleticism to fill a multifaceted role as a pass rusher, run stopper, and coverage player. If he can become a little stronger to secure the edge on an every-down basis he may be able to secure more playing time.
Tae Crowder
Tae Crowder began the season primarily as a special teams player in Weeks 2-3 before taking on a larger role as an inside linebacker against the Rams in Week 4. His role continued to grow until he was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury that kept him out during Weeks 7-11.
Crowder played more than 50 snaps on defense and special teams from Weeks 13-17. As his role on defense increased, he saw a dip on special teams, playing only 19 snaps on kick return over the final four weeks of the season.
Crowder finished the season with the 12th-most defensive snaps on the team, the sixth-most tackles with 56, three tackles for loss and one pass defended. He allowed 24 catches for 283 yards in coverage. He had one sack, three quarterback hits, and five total pressures as a pass rusher. He also had a critical scoop and score fumble recovery for a touchdown against Washington in Week 6.
Over the course of the season, Crowder established himself as the team's starting inside linebacker next to Blake Martinez. At 235 pounds he has shown he has the ability to run sideline to sideline and this experience should serve him well.
Austin Mack
Mack got his first action of the season in Week 6 and was active in every game since, playing 197 offensive snaps. His physicality and blocking ability gave the Giants the flexibility to line him up in different spots. He lined up mostly outside (120 snaps) and had 47 snaps in the slot, 17 in the backfield, and 13 off the end of the line. Mack played 19 special teams snaps, mostly on kick return, over the final five weeks of the season.
Mack finished the season catching seven of his 13 targets for 91 yards, including 38 yards after the catch. Five of his catches went for first downs. He does not have burner speed but his length and strength give him potential as a possession receiver.
Madre Harper
An undrafted free agent who signed with the Raiders after the 2020 NFL Draft, Harper was joined the Giants off of the Las Vegas practice squad at the end of September. The cornerback played in nine games, logging most of his time as a special teams player with some work on defense.
He has become a core special teams player, with 26 snaps on the kick return team, 43 in kick coverage, 27 on punt return, and 18 in punt coverage. He lined up in different areas of the defense, with 10 snaps in the box, 15 in the slot, and 12 on the outside.
Harper missed the final four games of the season on injured reserve with a knee injury.
Niko Lalos
An undrafted free agent from Dartmouth, Lalos was brought onto the active roster after the bye week and earned a role on special teams and defense. He played 71 special teams snaps over the final six games, with most of his snaps coming on kick return, kick coverage and field goal block.
Lalos also played 72 snaps on the defensive line, playing on both edges and finishing with five tackles, one pass defended, an interception and a fumble recovery.
