With the calendar flipped to July, Giants.com asks 20 important questions heading into the team's 2020 training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
For 20 days, a member of the Giants.com crew will answer one question about the roster, coaching staff, schedule, and much more.
No. 19: Who is most likely to make the Pro Bowl for the first time?
Lance Medow: Last season, Evan Engram was on pace for a career year. Through the first five games, he accumulated 33 receptions, 373 yards and two touchdowns. Unfortunately, the injury bug struck and Engram only appeared in three more games before being placed on injured reserve in mid-December. When you look at the Cowboys' offense during Jason Garrett's tenure, the tight end position played a prominent role in the passing game. Just take note of Jason Witten's production and the Giants have been on the wrong end of those numbers over the last decade or so.
Although Witten's stats jump off the page, the same can also be said for Blake Jarwin, who is more comparable to Engram in terms of build and athleticism. With Witten taking a backseat to Jarwin in each of the last two seasons, the latter emerged as a notable playmaker with his targets, receptions and receiving yards increasing from 2018 to 2019. Jarwin's usage and emergence are encouraging signs for Engram. In face, Dallas has an even longer track record at the position. You can go back to Garrett's playing days with the Cowboys when Jay Novacek was a key weapon during their three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s. This is yet another reason why I'm very interested to see how Garrett shapes the offense around Engram's strengths and how heavily he's involved in the passing game.
It can't be overlooked that the Pro Bowl is very much a popularity contest with fans, players and coaches each influencing the vote. That's why in order to fairly evaluate the likelihood of a player making the Pro Bowl for the first time, you have to take into consideration his competition in the conference. Philadelphia's Zach Ertz and San Francisco's George Kittle earned Pro Bowl accolades following the 2019 season and both aren't fading away anytime soon but, behind those two, there's not an overwhelming amount of proven depth. The Saints' Jared Cook is a player to watch, so is the three-headed monster (Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard) in Tampa Bay. I'm not saying it's going to be easy for Engram because much depends on his health, but it's certainly more plausible compared to other positions where there's stiff competition.
Dan Salomone: At their core, I think Giants fans appreciate linebackers more than any other position, so this offseason was for them. Inside and outside, old and new, the team added several intriguing players to the unit.
In free agency, Blake "The Tackling Machinez" Martinez and Kyler Fackrell, who has a double-digit sack season on his resume, came over from Green Bay. In the draft, the Giants used 40 percent of their 10 picks at the position: Cam Brown (Penn State), Carter Coughlin (Minnesota), TJ Brunson (South Carolina) and Tae Crowder (Georgia). That's six new pieces right there for defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, inside linebackers coach Kevin Sherrer, and outside linebackers coach/senior assistant Bret Bielema.
"I think it says a lot more about how our defensive scheme fits together, that we are going to play with a lot of linebackers throughout the game," coach Joe Judge said. "You build your defense to build two-thirds of your team, that's really your defense and your kicking game for covering kicks. These guys have a lot of impact across the board right there."
While we're on the subject, don't overlook the return of linebacker Ryan Connelly, who was on his way to being the steal of the 2019 draft. The fifth-round pick out of Wisconsin recorded 20 tackles, two interceptions and a sack in the first four games of his rookie year, but then it abruptly ended due to a torn ACL. He was also high school teammates with Coughlin in Eden Prairie, Minnesota. Connelly, then the quarterback, helped the school to three Minnesota Class 6A football state championships.
That's not exactly the type of versatility that Judge has spoken about since he took over – I don't think Connelly is throwing a pass anytime soon – but the linebacker corps has a little bit of everything to make it dominant once again.
John Schmeelk: Dominance. I consider myself a realist and try to go out of my way to temper expectations on most things, in general. I'm a "regression to the mean" kind of guy. Give me a bucket and cold water and I'll find something to pour it on. I see no reason to be like this when it comes to Saquon Barkley. He is that talented and capable of putting together a special season.
I'll be so bold as to say that I would be surprised if Barkley doesn't gain 2,000 yards from scrimmage, find a way to score 10 touchdowns, or catch more than 55 passes.
Given the high frequency Jason Garrett made sure Ezekiel Elliott had the ball while they were in Dallas, I expect Barkley to be among the NFL's Top 3 running backs, based on most metrics. He is a special player and should consistently impact the game, either running the ball or catching it.
Barkley should be the centerpiece of everything the Giants do offensively and his numbers should be immense, barring injuries. I predict: 317 carries for 1,462 yards, 64 receptions for 588 yards with 12 total touchdowns.
View photos of Giants running back Saquon Barkley's time with the New York Giants.
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and Tommy DeVito celebrate after a catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps into the end zone during a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) attempts a catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Commanders on Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Mikey Owens/NFL)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and center John Michael Schmitz Jr. (61) during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 6 NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, October 15, 2023 in Orchard Park, New York (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26), TE Daniel Bellinger (82)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a week 12 NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Sunday, November 28, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
Saquon Barkley (26),
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley during week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during a week 8 regular season game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday October 27th, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 7 regular season game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday October 20th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley (26) during week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, TX
Saquon Barkley (26), Jon Feliciano (76)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 2 regular season game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium on Sunday September 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) participates in Training Camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a week 1 regular season game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Sunday September 8th, 2019 in Arlington, Texas
RB Saquon Barkley (26) New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches a pass as Houston Texans linebacker Zach Cunningham (41) defends during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate Barkley's touchdown catch on a pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants tight end Kaden Smith, left, celebrates his touchdown catch with running back Saquon Barkley, right, during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
A young fan reacts after New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley gifted him a ball after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts after catching a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday December 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, left, runs for a long touchdown as Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) tries to make the tackle during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, looks at Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson (35) while scoring on a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in a touchdown in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Philadelphia Eagles' Daeshon Hall (74) during the first half of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Darius Slayton, left, and Saquon Barkley celebrate after Slayton scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Dallas Cowboys defensive end DeMarcus Lawrence (90) dives over the line to tackle New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown on a four yard reception against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the football towards the end zone on his way to scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, score a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Sept. 15, 2019, file photo, New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley has been cleared to return to the Giants' lineup for Sunday's game against the Arizona Cardinals. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Bills defeated the Giants, 28-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. The Cowboys beat the Giants 35-17. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
FILE - In this Aug. 16, 2019, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) greets fans before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in East Rutherford, N.J. Barkley set team rookie records for yards rushing (1,307) receptions (91) and total touchdowns (15) playing behind a bad line. With trade acquisition Kevin Zeitler at right guard, free agent Mike Remmers at right tackle and C Jon Halapio back from from a major leg injury, this could be an even bigger year for the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and the league leader in yards from scrimmage (2,028). (AP Photo/Adam Hunger, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley celebrates after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over the top to score a touchdown during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks away for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26), right, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, celebrates his touchdown with teammates during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants tight end Scott Simonson (82) celebrates a touchdown with running back Saquon Barkley (26), wide receiver Bennie Fowler (18) and wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts in Indianapolis, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
FILE - In this Dec. 23, 2018, file photo, New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs in for a touchdown in front of Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Darius Leonard (53) during the first half of an NFL football game in Indianapolis. The betting favorite for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year is Barkley, taken No. 2 behind Cleveland’s Baker Mayfield in the draft this past spring. (AP Photo/AJ Mast, File)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley reacts after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for yardage in action against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover, Md. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, top, scores a touchdown just before the ball is knocked from his hands during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
FILE - In this Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018 file photo,New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins in Landover, Md. How popular is Saquon Barkley? Well, lots of fans want to look like him. Enough so that Barkley tops the DICK'S Sporting Goods Jersey report for sales. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is picked up offensive guard Jamon Brown (78) as they celebrate his 78-yard touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 14 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover Md. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, top, leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley reacts to his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning during the first half of the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. The Eagles won 25-22. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Bennie Fowler during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates a touchdown score by Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown as Philadelphia Eagles defensive back Chandon Sullivan (39) and outside linebacker Kamu Grugier-Hill (54) try to stop him during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants rookie running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a week 11 NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. New York won 38-35. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him and Buccaneers linebackers Riley Bullough (49) and Adarius Taylor (53) look on during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley scores a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) jumps past San Francisco 49ers defensive back K'Waun Williams during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, scores a touchdown as Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul attempts to tackle him during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26), center, celebrates his touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs uncontested for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of an NFL football game Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, left, celebrates his touchdown with Evan Engram during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball during a week 6 NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. Philadelphia won 34-13. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries the ball for a touchdown after making a reception during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, October 7, 2018, in Charlotte, Nc. The Panthers won 33-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs in for a touchdown during the second half of the team's NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Jason E. Miczek)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during a game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018 in Charlotte,N.C. (Logan Bowles via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the second half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) catches a touchdown pass against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs past Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) for a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) makes a leaping catch during a week 3 NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday September 23, 2018 in Houston (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers' Jermaine Carter (56) in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley jumps over defenders for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown against the Carolina Panthers in the first half of an NFL football game in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Oct. 7, 2018. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates his touchdown with quarterback Eli Manning (10) during an NFL football game against the Houston Texans on Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018 in Houston. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown against the Houston Texans during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 23, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley (26) breaks a tackle by Jacksonville Jaguars' Tashaun Gipson (39) to run for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) smiles and celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates after rushing 68 yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Sunday, Sept. 9, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley evades a tackle by New York Jets' Harvey Langi (44), Marcus Maye (20) and Brandon Copeland (51) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs down field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball past Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Robert Davis (14) in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown with Giants running back Javorius Allen (37) in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, catches a touchdown pass from quarterback Daniel Jones, not visible, as Washington Redskins strong safety Landon Collins (20) tries to defend during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) dives over Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin for a touchdown ona long run during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as Miami Dolphins defensive back Nik Needham (40) holds on in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) is tackled by Washington Redskins cornerback Aaron Colvin (47) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball into the end zone for a touchdown against the Miami Dolphins during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) walks off the field during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks free from a tackle during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball up the field during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) looks on before a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley watches against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) rushes during the NFL football team's practice in East Rutherford, N.J., Friday, Aug. 5, 2022. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball as New England Patriots defensive tackle Carl Davis Jr. (98) defends during the first half of a preseason NFL football game Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the New England Patriots during an NFL preseason football game at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Sunday, Jan. 9, 2022, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs against the New England Patriots during an NFL preseason football game at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley smiles before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium, Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley plays during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) walks off the field after the Giants lost 21-6 to the Dallas Cowboys in an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley plays during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Laurence Kesterson)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Kamil Krzaczynski)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) in action against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. The Eagles defeated the Giants 34-10. (AP Photo/Rich Schultz)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs against the Philadelphia Eagles during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Jourdan Lewis (26) of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 19, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley rushes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2021, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 5, 2021, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs past New Orleans Saints cornerback Bradley Roby (21) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs up the field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The New York Giants defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 13-7. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) catches a pass in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs past New Orleans Saints cornerback Bradley Roby (21) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs a route against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 28, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Corey Sipkin)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs away from Tampa Bay Buccaneers inside linebacker Devin White (45) during the first half of an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 22, 2021, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tyler Kaufman)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) carries ahead of New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore (23) in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs a play during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) breaks away from Washington Football Team cornerback Bobby McCain (20) as he runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores on a touchdown reception against New Orleans Saints cornerback Marshon Lattimore in the second half of an NFL football game in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) running downfield with the ball against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs to avoid a tackle from Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Denver Broncos won 27-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) evades a tackle from Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley Mark Glowinski Daniel Bellinger
Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley Mark Glowinski Daniel Bellinger
Saquon Barkley (26)
Daniel Jones, Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley
Jon Feliciano (76), Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley (26)
Nick Gates (65), Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley
Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday November 24, 2022 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus\New York Giants )
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a football game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday October 30, 2022 in Seattle, Washington (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
Saquon Barkley
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 10 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, November 12, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during a week 11 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, November 19, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 7 NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Sunday, October 22, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) scores a touchdown during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an week 2 NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, September 17, 2023 in Glendale, Arizona (Evan Pinkus / New York Giants)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26)
RB Saquon Barkley (26)
Lance Medow: I'll never choose a NFC East game because the Giants play their divisional rivals twice each season and you can essentially flip a coin when it comes to those games - every one is important and the team records make no difference. Of the 10 other games to choose from, there's one that jumps off the page for many reasons: Week 8, at home, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Monday Night Football.
It's a NFC game which means it carries a bit more weight when it comes to the playoff race, plus it's one of the three prime time contests on the Giants' schedule. In addition, the Giants will be coming off a lengthy rest period since their previous game is on Thursday Night Football in Philadelphia on Oct. 22. That means it will be New York's first game in 11 days. Whether that turns out to be good or bad remains to be seen. This contest also marks the midpoint of the season - the Giants will have played eight games by the time the clock expires and it will provide a solid sample size to see where the team stands.
In addition to all those factors, here's the main course. The Giants will be facing one of the best offenses in the league, led by Tom Brady, who just joined the Bucs in free agency. New York's history with Brady already provides for some intrigue, although it doesn't hurt that he'll be surrounded by a plethora of weapons, including 1,000-yard receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, versatile tight ends Rob Gronkowski, Cameron Brate and O.J. Howard, and dual-threat running back Ronald Jones. You also can't overlook receivers Justin Watson and rookie Tyler Johnson - and I haven't even brought up the defense. Shaq Barrett led the NFL in sacks in 2019 with 19.5, Jason Pierre-Paul is still a dangerous force and the defensive line features big bruisers Ndamukong Suh and Vita Vea. Add in linebackers Devin White and Lavonte David ... and Tampa Bay boasts one of the best front sevens in the league.
This will be quite the test for the Giants on both sides of the ball, and if last season's Week 3 matchup is any indication, the rematch shouldn't disappoint. In 2019, the Bucs ranked third in total offense (398 yard avg.), first in passing yards per game (303) and tied for third, with the Saints, in points (28.6) - all with Jameis Winston under center. Now, they've upgraded to Brady. I rest my case. Circle November 2nd.
View iconic photos from the all-time series between the Giants and their 2020 opponents.
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrates with holder Steve Weatherford (5) after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Week 1 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
Week 2 at Chicago Bears
Week 3 vs. San Francisco 49ers
Week 4 at Los Angeles Rams
Week 5 at Dallas Cowboys
Week 6 vs. Washington Redskins
Week 7 at Philadelphia Eagles
Week 8 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Week 9 at Washington Redskins
Week 10 vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Week 11 - BYE
Week 12 at Cincinnati Bengals
Week 13 at Seattle Seahawks
Week 14 vs. Arizona Cardinals
Week 15 vs. Cleveland Browns
Week 16 vs. Baltimore Ravens
Week 17 vs Dallas Cowboys
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) breaks away from Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Levon Kirkland (99) and Scott Chad (30) as he runs for 23 yards in the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 10, 2000, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Abraham (51) hits Pittsburgh Steelers running back Walter Abercrombie (34) in the air as he stops the back near the line of scrimmage during the NFL preseason football game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Aug. 20, 1988 in East Rutherford, NJ. The Giants won the game 28-17. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giant Tommy Crutcher (56) face masks two players from the Pittsburgh Steelers at the same time during a game on October 12,1969 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giant beat the Pittsburgh Steelers 10-7. Tommy Crutcherr played for 8 season with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger (7) and New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) visit after an NFL football game in Pittsburgh, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2016. The Steelers won 24-14. (AP Photo/Jared Wickerham)
FILE - In this Sept. 20, 1964, file photo, New York Giants' Y.A. Tittle squats on the field after being hit hard while passing during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, in Pittsburgh. Football is diminished without Y.A. Tittle, the star 49ers and Giants quarterback whose 1964 photo of him bleeding and slumped on both knees came to embody the sport's fierce combat. Tittle died in 2017. (AP Photo/Dozier Mobley, File)
Harry Carson of the New York Giants chases Pittsburgh Steelers' running back Franco Harris (32) in first quarter action in Pittsburgh, Aug. 11, 1979. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' Damontre Moore blocks a punt by Pittsburgh Steelers' Drew Butler (9) in the first quarter of an NFL preseason football game on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2013, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
New York Giants Eli Manning (10) throws a touchdown pass over Pittsburgh Steelers linebacker Larry Foote (50) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 26, 2008, in Pittsburgh. The Giants won 21-14. (AP Photo/Don Wright)
Frank Gifford, New York Giant halfback is brought down by bevy of Pittsburgh Steelers after taking pass good for 11-yard gain in second period at Yankee Stadium, New York City, on Nov. 15, 1959. Pass was from Giant quarterback Don Heinrich. Identifiable Steelers are Jack McCall (20, left), Dean Derby (27) and Dick Campbell (66). Steelers won 14-9 in last two minutes to drop Giants into first place tie with Cleveland in eastern conference of National Football League. (AP Photo)
Frank Gifford of the New York Giant (16) reaches for a pass thrown by Y.A. Tittle in the third quarter of game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Pittsburgh, Sept. 30, 1962. Gifford caught the pass and went over for a touchdown to give the Giants a 24-20 lead it never relinquished. The play covered 27 yards. The Steelers defender is Clendon Thomas. New York won 31-27. (AP Photo/Dozier Mobley)
New York Giants running back Joe Morris (20), breaks past Pittsburgh Steelers Robin Cole (56) at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1985. Giants won 28-10. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14) is shown in action during game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Yankee Stadium in New York City on Dec. 15, 1963. The Giants won the game 33-17 to take the Eastern Conference Championship of the National Football League. (AP Photo)
Del Shofner, (85), New York Giants' end, grabs Y.A. Tittles' pass for touchdown at 41st-yard line in first quarter of game with Steelers at New York's Yankee Stadium on Dec. 15, 1963. At left is Willie Daniels, defensive halfback of Pittsburgh Steelers. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor, (56), is hauled down by Pittsburgh Steelers center Mike Webster, (52), after recovering a fumble by Steeler quarterback Mark Malone during the third quarter of NFL exhibition game in Pittsburgh at night on Friday, August 31, 1985. The Giants won the game 24-14. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
An unidentified New York Giants player changes from cleats to athletic shoes during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York.(Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Giants' Mel Triplett (33) picks up a block and then charges past Chicago Bears players and over umpire Sam Wilson for 17 yards and a touchdown - first of the game - at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Dec. 30, 1956. Giants routed Bears 47-7 to take the NFL championship. Identifiable players are: Jack Stroud (66), Alex Webster (29), Stan Wallace (40), McNeil Moore (29), and J.C. Caroline. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) flips over Chicago Bears cornerback Kyle Fuller (23) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) pushes off Chicago Bears strong safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) after a catch during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) leaps over Chicago Bears strong safety Adrian Amos (38) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
In this photo taken Oct. 3, 2010 in East Rutherford, N.J., Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, during the second quarter of an NFL football game. Cutler took several hard hits while getting sacked nine times in the game and suffering a concussion. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Giants backfield coach Vince Lombardi, left, admiring watch presented to Mel Triplett, right, for his play football title game against the Chicago Bears in New York, Dec. 31, 1956. (AP Photo/Tom Fitzsimmons)
Ward Cuff, New York Giants halfback, gets off a 42-yard goal against the Chicago Bears Oct. 31, 1937 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. The Bears and Giants played to a 3-3 tie. (AP Photo)
Bleak Wrigley Field, covered with new snow, gets a warm-up crew in Chicago, Dec. 23, 1963. They're unloading devices which provide a hot air flow calculated to soften frozen playing field, now under tarpaulins, upper left. The New York Giants and the Chicago Bears will play for the NFL championship. (AP Photo/Charles Knoblock)
New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells receives a cooler full of Gatorade over his head by Giants players Everson Walls (28) and Carl Banks (58) as time runs out in the Giants 31-3 victory over the Chicago Bears at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Jan. 13, 1991. To right of Parcells are Giants Pepper Johnson (52) and Lawrence Taylor (56). (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
Pro Football Hall of Fame Chicago Bears fullback Bronko Nagurski is tackled by fellow hall of famer Mel Hein of the Giants during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
William Beattie "Big Chief" Feathers (48) of the Chicago Bears is off on an end run that resulted in no gain during a game against the New York Giants at the Polo Grounds in New York City Nov., 8, 1936. Number 3 of the Bears running interference is Bronislau "Bronko" Nagurski Bears won, 25-7. (AP Photo)
Hall of Fame Chicago Bears end Bill Hewitt (56) laterals the football to Billy Karr (22) for the winning touchdown in a 23 to 17 Bears win over the New York Giants in the 1933 NFL Championship Game on Dec. 17, 1933 at Wrigley Field in Chicago, Illinois. The NFL's first championship game played. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
Chicago Bears back Carl Brumbaugh pitches the football out to Pro Football Hall of Fame fullback Bronko Nagurski during a 30 to 13 New York Giants victory over the Bears in the NFL Championship game played at the Polo Grounds on Dec. 9, 1934 in New York. (Pro Football Hall of Fame via AP Images)
New York Giants' half back Frank Gifford carries the ball during pro exhibition game with the San Francisco 49ers, Aug. 20, 1955. Others are New York's Jack Stroud (66), on ground, and 49er George Maderos (40). (AP Photo)
New York Giants guards Roy Simmons (69) and Billy Ad (67) and tackle Brad Benson (60) huddle in the endzone before an 1981 NFC Divisional NFL playoff game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 3, 1982. The 49ers defeated the Giants 38-24. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
San Francisco 49ers safety Ronnie Lott (42) gives chase as New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) catches an 18 yard second quarter touchdown pass during the NFL NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giants Ronnie Blye (22) during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on October 20, 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Giants 26-10. Ronnie Blye played for 2 season, with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53), elected to the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2006, sets for play in a 10-17 loss to the San Francisco 49ers on November 29, 1981, at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
SAN FRANCISCO, CA - JANUARY 22: Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants after the game against the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship game at Candlestick Park on January 22, 2012 in San Francisco, California. The Giants defeated the 49ers in overtime20-17.(AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) gets low fives from teammates during player introductions at the NFL 1986 season NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 4, 1987 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 49-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants' Eli Manning throws with San Francisco 49ers' Tarell Brown (25) and Aldon Smith (99) rushing during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
San Francisco 49ers running back Roger Craig (33) is tackled during an NFL football game by New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) on Sunday, Jan. 15, 1994, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 44-3. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16), fired off the ball before New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56), can reach him during the first quarter of their NFL game in Candlestick Park, San Francisco, Monday, Dec. 1, 1986. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers Ken Willard (40) is shown in a tangle of New York Giants on a wet field in San Francisco, 1973. Other players unidentified. (AP Photo)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) is congregated by Mark Collins (25) and Carl Banks (58) after his interception and touchdown run on a Joe Montana pass in the second quarter on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1986 in East Rutherford, N.J. at Giants stadium. The interception helped the Giants beat the San Francisco 49 ers 49-3 in their NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
San Francisco 49ers Kyle Williams fumbles as New York Giants Jacquian Williams (57) strips him from the ball in the overtime period during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10 ) celebrates with offensive lineman David Diehl (66) after an NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrates with holder Steve Weatherford (5) after kicking the game-winning field goal during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. Giants linebacker Pepper Johnson (52) and defensive back Mark Collins (25) combine to stop 49er running back Roger Craig (33). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro catches a 24-yard first quarter pass from quarterback Phil Simms to score the first touchdown of the game as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer defends on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/David Fields)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. 49er defensive back Ronnie Lott (42) and Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) after game. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants Phil McConkey hauls in a 28-yard pass from quarterback Phil Simms in the end zone as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer hangs on during third quarter action at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 5, 1987. The touchdown helped lift the Giants to a 49-3 win in the NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
New York Giant Phil McConkey (80) celebrates a touchdown by teammate Mark Bavaro, left, with Joe Morris, background, in the second period of NFC wildcard playoff action against the San Francisco 49ers in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is knocked down after making a pass by New York Giants George Martin in the fourth quarter of play in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16) during the NFL 1984 NFC Divisional playoff game on December 29, 1984 in San Francisco, California. The 49ers won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) drags San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (behind) into the end zone for a New York touchdown in NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. Carson intercepted a Joe Montana pass and returned it all the way for the score. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants player Bart Oates (65), Conrad Goode (62) and an unidentified teammate, hug after the Giants pulled ahead of the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985 at Giant Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants advanced in the NFL playoffs by beating San Francisco 49ers 17--3 and will play the Chicago Bears Jan. 5th. (AP Photo)
San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (26) is sandwiched between New York Giants safeties Bill Currier (right) and Terry Kinard in the first quarter of NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco. Tyler picked up 10 yards on the pass play from quarterback Joe Montana. (AP Photo/Jeff Reinking)
New York Giants' Frank Gifford tucks in quarterback Y.A. Tittle's pass for 20 yard gain in first quarter at Kezar Stadium football game on August 19, 1962 between New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. Coming in to make stop is 49ers line backer Matt Hazeltine (55). San Francisco won exhibition contest, 42-10. (AP Photo/Ernest Bennett)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Running Back Earl Cooper (49) leaps to make ground over New York Defensive back Mark Haynes (36). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Fred Dean (74), gets a hand on New York Giants running back Tony Galbreath (30) during the fourth quarter of the 49ers 21-10 win over the Giants, during the first round of the NFC playoff game at Candlestick Park, Dec. 31, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Michael Strahan hits St. Louis Quarterback Kurt warner after he releases the ball in the third quarter Sunday, October 14, 2001 at the Dome at Americas Center in St. Louis.(AP Photo/Tom Gannam)
New York Giants Hall of Fame running back Larry Csonka (39) runs upfield after taking a handoff from quarterback Craig Morton (15) during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Coliseum on September 26, 1976. The Rams defeated the Giants 24-10. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27) celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 11, 1990 in Anaheim, Calif. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) moves in the pocket to avoid Rams linebacker Kevin Greene (91) during the Giants 19-13 overtime loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the 1989 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 7, 1990 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants running back Doug Kotar (44) leaps as he runs upfield during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at the Los Angeles Coliseum on September 26, 1976. The Rams defeated the Giants 24-10. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 11, 1990, in Los Angeles. (NFL Photos via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sept. 30, 1984. The Rams defeated the Giants 33-12. (AP Photo/NFL Photos)
Les Josephson (34) of the Los Angeles Rams runs into a driving tackle by New York Giants Tom Longo (44) after a short gain in the first period of their game at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 20, 1970, New York. Giants Spider Lockhart (43) got a piece of the tackle. Coming up to help are Giants Scott Eaton (20) and Willie Williams (41). (AP Photo)
New York Giants wide receiver Domenik Hixon (87) catches a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game against the St. Louis Rams on Monday, Sept. 19, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. Defending are Rams' Craig Dahl, right, and Quintin Mikell. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls out a play during an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 14, 2008, in St. Louis. (AP Photo/Tom Gannam)
The crowd reacts as New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning leaves the field after beating the St. Louis Rams 44-24 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 2, 2005. Manning threw for 296 yards and a career-high four touchdowns against the Rams. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Anthony Wright (2) hits the ground after being sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarater Sunday, Dec. 17, 2000 in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass in the second half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro, left, grabs a Phil Simms pass in front of the Dallas Cowboys Vince Albritt in the first quarter of the game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 2, 1986. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) meet at midfield after an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys won 37-18. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
El jugador de los Giants de Nueva York, Saquon Barkley, anota un touchdown durante la segunda mitad del partido de la NFL contra los Cowboys de Dallas, el domingo 30 de diciembre de 2018, en East Rutherford, Nueva Jersey. (AP Foto/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) catches a pass for a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys free safety J.J. Wilcox (27) and Anthony Brown (30) defend in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday Sept. 11, 2016, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
IRVING, TX - OCTOBER 23: Linebacker LaVar Arrington #55 of the New York Giants sacks quarterback Drew Bledsoe #11 of the Dallas Cowboys for a safety at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants holds up the ball he recovered after it was fumbled by Tony Dorsett of the Dallas Cowboys, slumped in the foreground, during their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 21, 1981. Celebrating the fumble recovery, which occurred during overtime, are Bill Neill, left, and George Martin. The Giants won a shot at an NFL playoff berth with a 13-10 victory. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a pass during an NFL game between the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys in Dallas, Texas Sunday, October. 28, 2012. (AP Photo/Tom Hauck)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 18-yard touchdown as Dallas Cowboys safety Will Allen (26) loses his helmet during the second half of aN NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/LM Otero)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, right, and Osi Umenyiora celebrate after Tuck sacked Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 31-14. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) reaches out to catch a four-yard touchdown pass against Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys cornerback Terence Newman (41) chases New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) as he runs down the sideline to score on a 74-yard touchdown pass during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 1, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. Teammate Mitch Petrus (62) urges Cruz on. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
The New York Giants celebrate after Dallas Cowboys' Dan Bailey, center, had his field goal attempt blocked during the final seconds of an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday, Dec. 11, 2011, in Arlington, Texas. New York won 37-34. (AP Photo/Sharon Ellman)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a 10-yard touchdown reception as Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) defends during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2013, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants guard David Diehl (66) blocks Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware during an NFL divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) scores a touchdown as Dallas Cowboys cornerback Orlando Scandrick (32) pursues during the second quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 6, 2009. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terrell Owens gets emotional during a postgame news conference after losing to the New York Giants 21-17 in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, right, and Amani Toomer, back center, celebrate the Giants 21-17 win over the Dallas Cowboys in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo (9) is sacked for a safety by New York Giants defensive end Mathias Kiwanuka (97) and New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 14, 2008, in Irving, Texas. Dallas won 20-8. (AP Photo)
New York Giants cornerback R.W. McQuarters (25) intercepts a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver Terry Glenn (83) in the end zone during the final seconds of the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. The interception ended the Cowboys' final drive and sealed the Giants' 21-17 win. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) lets out a yell as he leaves the field following a 21-17 win over the Dallas Cowboys in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)
Dallas Cowboys linebacker DeMarcus Ware, left, congratulates New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after the Giants defeated the Cowboys 21-17 in an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. (AP Photo/Donna McWilliam)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown on a 1-yard run against the Dallas Cowboys in the fourth quarter of an NFC divisional playoff football game, Sunday, Jan. 13, 2008, in Irving, Texas. DCowboys cornerback Terence Newman (41) defends and Giants guard Chris Snee (76) blocks for Jacobs. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants records one of six Giants sacks, this one on Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe #11 of the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Running back Brandon Jacobs #27 of the New York Giants celebrates while standing on the Cowboys end zone helmet star after scoring a touchdown on a 3 yard run in the third quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants celebrates with a jump-shot after one of his 2 sacks against the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Rookie cornerback Kevin Dockery #35 of the New York Giants runs back an interception for a 96 yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter while being chased by backup quarterback Tony Romo #9 of the Dallas Cowboys at Texas Stadium on October 23, 2006 in Irving, Texas. The Giants defeated the Cowboys 36-22. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants' Jeremy Shockey (80) celebrates Brandon Jacobs second quarter touchdown in the Giants 17-10 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Earnest Gray (83), a New York Giants wide receiver grabs a pass from quarterback Phil Simms during the second period in Texas Stadium on Sunday, Nov. 5, 1984. Everson Wall (24) of the Cowboys was unable to prevent the 18 yard pass completion to the sidelines. The Giants beat Dallas 19-7. (AP Photo/DGB)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Beldsoe is sacked by New York Giants left end Michael Strahan in the fourth quarter of the Cowboys 17-10 loss to the Giants, Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The two teams were vying for sole possession of first place in the NFC East. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) is chased by New York Giants defensive end Jack Gregory (81) during an NFL game against the New York Giants Oct. 10, 1976, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls an audible during he fourth quarter agaisnt the Dallas Cowboys Sunday night, Jan. 2, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Manning completed 18 of 27 passes for 144 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Giants to a 28-24 win. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Dorsett, right, is hauled down by the New York Giants Carl Banks in the first quarter at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Oct. 6, 1985, East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, front, celebrates after sacking Dallas Cowboys quarterback Drew Bledsoe, left rear, during the third quarter Sunday, Dec. 4, 2005, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Cowboys guard Larry Allen is behind Strahan. The Giants won, 17-10. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys head coach Bill Parcells, right, and New York Giants Michael Strahan (92) greet each other after their game in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 16 , 2005. The Cowboys won in overtime 16-13. (AP Photo/Amy Conn-Gutierrez)
Y.A. Tittle the hero is used to receiving attention and adulation wherever he goes. Here admiring young fans escort him from the field after a victory over the Dallas Cowboys, Nov. 12, 1963. (AP Photo/Ruben Goldberg)
Roger Staubach of the Dallas Cowboys seems oblivious to the presence of New York Giants Henry Reed behind him during the second quarter of Sundays game, Dec. 13, 1971, New York. Staubach threw three touchdown passes to lead the Cowboys to a 42-14 win over New York. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Ike Hilliard (88) dives over the goal line for a touchdown in the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys, in Irving, Texas, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2002. (AP Photo/Tim Sharp)
The New York Giants play the Washington Redskins in a football game at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 4, 1938. A crowd of 57,461 saw the Giants defeat the Redskins, 36-0, to gain the Eastern Division title. (AP Photo)
Washington Redskins fullback Charlie Hardaway (31)holds he football and runs for a gain against the New York Giants in October 1973. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) and Washington Redskins running back Adrian Peterson (26) meet on the field following an NFL football game between the New York Giants and the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, right, runs for a long touchdown while avoiding a tackle from Washington Redskins free safety Montae Nicholson during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, greets Washington Redskins quarterback Dwayne Haskins after an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants defeated the Redskins 24-3. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) reacts during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers celebrates his touchdown with Giants fans during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) gets past Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Norman (24) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) hands the ball off to New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) against the Washington Redskins during an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 28, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Redskins won 20-13. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass as Washington Redskins cornerback Josh Wilson (26) and Madieu Williams pursue him during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 27-23. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins fullback Darrel Young (36) is tackled by New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26), Justin Tuck (91), and Mathias Kiwanuka (94) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012 in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Washington Redskins running back George Rogers (38) is brought down by New York Giants linebacker Carl Banks (58) and defensive end George Martin (75) after a yardage gain in the first quarter action at RFK Stadium in Washington, Dec. 7, 1986. The Giants and Redskins are battling out for the lead in the NFC East. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw, top, leaps over Washington Redskins free safety Madieu Williams (41) for a first down during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Oct. 21, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 27-23. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants Hall of Fame linebackers Lawrence Taylor (56) and Harry Carson (53) during a 31 - 22 loss to the Washington Redskins on December 17, 1983 at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Washington pro football fans braved the season's first snowstorm, Dec. 11, 1960, to watch the New York Giants down the Washington Redskins 17-3 at Washington's Griffith Stadium. Some huddled on snow-covered seats under umbrellas while another covered his lap with a cardboard box to keep off the wintry blasts. (AP Photo/Byron Rollins)
Washington Redskins' John Riggins, left, is stopped after a short gain by New York Giants Harry Carson, center and Brad van Pelt, right during the second quarter of the game at Giants Stadium at East Rutherford, Nov. 13, 1983. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) looks into the backfield during the 1986 NFC Championship NFL game against the Washington Redskins in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 11, 1987. The Giants shutout the Redskins 17-0. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Washington Redskins running back Cliff Battles (20) scores against the New York Giants on Dec. 5, 1937 at the Polo Grounds. The Redskins, featuring Battles and Sammy Baugh, smashed the Giants, 49-14, to become the Eastern Division champions of the NFL. (AP Photo)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) applies pressure to Robert Griffin III during a week 13 football game against the Washington Redskins on December 3, 2012 in Landover, Maryland (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
The ball pops free as Washington Redskins quarterback Jay Schroeder is hit by Giants Leonard Marshall while trying to pass during the third quarter of NFC Championship game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. Redskins recovered the ball. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
Football fans at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., watch the seventh game of the World Series on mini television sets when the Giants played the Washington Redskins, Oct. 27, 1986. (AP Photo/Wilbur Funches)
Giants George Martin (75) watches as teammate Harry Carson empties the water bucket on coach Bill Parcells during the last minute of their 17-0 win over the Redskins for the NFC Championship in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) drags down a Washington Redskins running back during a week 13 football game against the Washington Redskins on December 3, 2012 in Landover, Maryland (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
In this pile is John Karcis, Giant back, hugging the leather while an official flings up his arms to signal the Giants' first touchdown against the Washington Redskins at New York on Dec. 4, 1938. Giants went on to pile up a 36-0 score. (AP Photo)
Washington Redskins running back John Riggins, right, fumbles the football when hit by the New York Giants Dan Lloyd (54) in the first quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 25, 1979. The Giants recovered the fumble but were unable to score on the next series of downs. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck (91) deflects a pass thrown by Washington Redskins quarterback Rex Grossman (8) during the second half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) leaps towards the end zone for a touchdown as Washington Redskins linebacker Rocky McIntosh (52) defends during the third quarter of an NFL football game in the rain, Sunday, Nov. 30, 2008, in Landover, Md. The Giants won 23-7. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants defensive end Justin Tuck, left, tackles Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Thursday night, Sept. 4, 2008, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 16-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants fans react after watching the Giants defeat the Washington Redskins for the NFC Championship on television at Harry and Moe's restaurant in New York, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/David Bookstaver)
New York Giants wide receiver Derek Hagan celebrates his third-quarter touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Giants Fans, jubilant over their teams 9-7 victory over the Washington Redskins to take the Eastern championship in the NFL, yanked the goal posts out of the ground after the game at New York's Polo Grounds, Dec. 3, 1939. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' Joe Morris breaks away from Washington Redskins Alvin Walton as he runs with the ball during first quarter NFC Championship action at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/David Fields)
Washington Redskins cornerback Carlos Rogers and New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks grab each other's face mask during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw celebrates his first-quarter touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Monday, Dec. 21, 2009, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants Joe Morris breaks away from Washington Redskins Alvin Walton as he runs with the ball during first quarter NFC championship action at Giants stadium in East Rutherford Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/David Fields)
Washington Redskins George Rogers is pursued by New York Giants Carl Banks as he runs with the ball during first quarter NFC championship action at Giants stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Jan. 11, 1987. (AP Photo/G. Paul Burnett)
The scoreboard flashes a television network logo and welcome text stating that the Meadowlands welcomes ABC Monday Night Football as the Washington Redskins play against the New York Giants in an NFL game on October 27, 1986 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 27-20. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants middle line backer Jim Files intercepts pass from Washington Redskins quarterback Sonny Jorgensen intended for Redskins tight end Jerry Smith (87) at the Giants goal line during first quarter of game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Nov. 15, 1970. Files ran the ball back to the Redskin's 8 yard line. Giants won, 35-33. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants' Pat Hughes goes high in the air to block a punt by Washington Redskins Mike Bragg in fourth quarter of game on Sunday, Dec. 5, 1971 in Washington. The ball was recovered in the end zone by Otto Brown (21) for New York's only score. Washington defeated the Giants 23-7. (AP Photo/Harvey Georges)
Fullback Chuck Mercein of the New York Giants, 29, carries ball through what seems to be a wide opening in third quarter at New York's Yankee Stadium on Oct. 16, 1966. This play ended in no gain as Gregg Larson, 53, goes down and Washington Redskins back Sam Huff, 70, moves in to make the tackle. Other identifiable Redskin is end Carl Kammerer, 66. Giants took the game, 13-10. (AP Photo)
New York Giants defensive coach Bill Belichick is carried off the field on the shoulders of Thomas Johnson, left, and Greg Lasker after the defense shutout the Washington Redskins for a 17-0 win for the NFC Championship in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Jan. 12, 1987. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
Washington Redskins running back Earnest Byner (21) is tackled by New York Giants defenders Lawrence Taylor (56) and Pepper Johnson (52) during first quarter NFL action at RFK Stadium in Washington, D.C., Sunday, Oct. 14, 1990. (AP Photo/Doug Mills)
New York Giants end Bob Schnelker, (85), catches a pass in the end zone for a touchdown despite close guarding by Washington Redskins' safety man George Rosso, (20) in second quarter of game Oct. 24, 1954 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Giant quarterback Charley Conerly fired the scoring pass from four-yard line. Giants won 24-7. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Ken Strong (30), kicking the 2nd of 3 field goals which scored for the New York Giants in their game against the Washington Redskins at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 3, 1939. The Giants Won 9-7. The ball is in the air just above Frank Filchock (30) of Redskins. The victory gave the Giants the Eastern Division Championship of the National Football League for the 2nd consecutive year. Redskins shown are Jim Barber (15) and Steve Slivinski (16). Giants are Tuffy Leemans (4), John "Bull" Karcis (11); Ed Widseth (50) and Nello "Flash" Falaschi (28). (AP Photo)
New York Giants fullback John Karcis plunges to score from the one foot line against the Washington Redskins at the Polo Grounds in New York City, Dec. 4, 1938. A crowd of 57,461 saw the Giants win, 36-0, to take the Eastern Division title. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Larry Czonka carried the ball Sept.12,1976 in game against the Redskins in Washington. The game marked Czonka"s return to the NFL where he played for the Miami Dolphins before a stint with the short- lived World Football League. (AP Photo/Charles Tasnadi)
New York Giants cornerback Jason Sehorn (31) grabs the ball after intercepting a pass intended for Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Torrance Small (80) during the second quarter of their NFC divisional playoff game Sunday, Jan. 7, 2001, in East Rutherford, N.J. Sehorn went on to run it in for a 32-yard touchdown. (AP Photo/Beth A. Keiser)
New York Giants defensive line try to block a field goal against the Philadelphia Eagles during a game on November 17. 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giants beat the Philadelphia Eagle 7-6.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants Fran Tarkenton (40) during a game agains the Philadelphia Eagles on October 11, 1970 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The Philadelphia Eagles beat the Minnesota Vikings 30-23. Fran Tarkenton played for 18 season with 2 different teams. He was a 9-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws in the first half of an against the Philadelphia Eagles NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterbacks Eli Manning (10) and Daniel Jones (8) walk to the field before an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley runs with the ball to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
Quarterback Roman Gabriel (5) of the Philadelphia Eagles sets to pass against the New York Giants in 1973. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
Philadelphia Eagle Mike Evans (59) against New York Giants Henry Davis (66) during a game on November 17. 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giants beat the Philadelphia Eagle 7-6. Mike Evans played for 6 season all with the Giants. Henry Davis played for 6 season with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants head coach Bill Parcells voices his displeasure to head linesman Leo Miles after a controversial Philadelphia Eagles touchdown in overtime to give the Eagles a 23-17 win at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J., Nov. 20, 1988. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Joe Morrison (40) during a game agains the Philadelphia Eagles on October 11, 1970 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The Philadelphia Eagles beat the Minnesota Vikings 30-23. Joe Morrison played for 14 season all with the New York Giants.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants running back David Wilson (22) flips while celebrating a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Defensive back Pete Athas (45) of the New York Giants jumps to block a field goal attempt by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1973. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants fullback Henry Hynoski (45) catches a pass for a touchdown as Philadelphia Eagles cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (23) defends him during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Football coaches, from left: Joe Gibbs, Washington Redskins; Buddy Ryan, Philadelphia Eagles and Bill Parcells, New York Giants, line up in New York to score funds for the Miami Project to cure paralysis, July 2, 1990. Slim-Fast Foods and six NFL coaches combined efforts to raise more than $80,000 for the project. (AP Photo/Marty Lederhandler)
New York Giants' defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after running back an interception of a tipped pass 44-yards for a touchdown to beat the Philadelphia Eagles 23-17 in overtime Sunday, Oct. 31, 1999 in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/George Widman)
New York Giants head coach Jim Fassel, who turned 48 years-old, has a bucket of Gatorade dumped on him by quarterback Dave Brown in celebration of their 31-17 win over the Philadelphia Eagles at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford N.J. on Sunday, August 31, 1997. Giants Corey Miller (57) and Charles Way (30) watch. (AP Photo/Dan Hulshizer)
New York Giants defensive tackle Robert Harris (97) celebrates after sacking Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Ty Detmer in the third quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. on Sunday, August 31, 1997. (AP Photo/Dan Hulshizer)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) talks with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (5) at the end of the NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 7, 2008, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 20-14. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants' Michael Strahan celebrates after sacking Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Sept. 30, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the Eagles 16-3. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Kyle Rote (44), New York Giants end, gets his fingers on the ball but fails to hang on as a pass into the end zone by back Charlie Conerly is incomplete in second period of a Giants Philadelphia Eagles pro-football game, Dec. 10, 1961, Philadelphia, Pa. Jimmy Carr (21) of the Eagles also reaches for the ball. (AP Photo)
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Randall Cunningham is tackled by New York Giants' Lawrence Taylor as he ran for a three yard gain in the fourth quarter of game at Veterans Stadium in Philadelphia on Sunday, Nov. 15, 1987. Taylor was injured on the play and helped off the field. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb, right, is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora during second quarter NFL football Sunday, Sept. 30, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb fumbles the ball as he is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 30, 2007, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants sacked McNabb 12 times as they beat the Eagles 16-3. Umenyiora had a team-record six sacks. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro (89) is hit by Philadelphia Eagles Garry Cobb (50) as he attempts to catch a pass from quarterback Phil Simms during first quarter action in Philadelphia, Pa., Nov. 9, 1986. Bavaro dropped the ball and the pass was ruled incomplete. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
Philadelphia Eagles offense face the New York Giants defense during an NFL game Nov. 22, 1998, East Rutherford, N.J. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants Lawrence Taylor (56) puts the pressure on Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jim McMahon as Eagles Ron Heller (73) defends during Sunday's game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Dec. 9, 1991. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) catches a touchdown pass on a fake field goal during the NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on October 12, 1986 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 35-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Lee Bouggess (46), Philadelphia Eagles running back is tackled by Bob Lurtsema (71) New York Giants defensive end while Giants linebacker Matt Hazeltine (64) hangs onto Bouggess' foot as Bouggess gained short yardage in first period of Giants - Eagle pro-football game in Philadelphia on Monday, Nov. 23, 1970. Eagles won, 23-20. (AP Photo/Bill Ingraham)
Bulldozer Tom Woodeschick (37) Philadelphia Eagles running back, makes a short gain in the first period of an Eagles Giants game, Aug. 30, 1969. The Eagles won, 24-17. Giant back Henry Davis (66) makes the tackle. Woodeschick did much of the Eagles ball carrying. (AP Photo/Ray Howard)
New York Giant quarterback Y.A. Tittle wears a smile as he pulls off his jersey after leading Giants to stunning 38-21 win over the Philadelphia Eagles in New York?s Yankee Stadium on Nov. 12, 1961. The veteran passer completed 18 of 24 attempts, three of which were good for touchdowns, in rolling up 307 of the giants 440 yards gained. (AP Photo/John Lindsay)
New York Giants' Mark Bavaro, left, receives congratulations from teammates George Adams, center, and Stephen Baker after Bavaro caught a 19 yard pass for a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles at Giants Stadium, in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 6, 1987. The Giants won 23-20 in overtime. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Craig Morton looks downfield for a receiver late in the Giants Philadelphia Eagles game at Yale Bowl in New Haven, Connecticut, on Sunday, Dec. 8, 1974. Face to-face in front of Morton are Eagles Jerry Patton (77 in light jersey) and Giants Tom Mullen. Due to heavy rains, the field was a sea of mud. (AP Photo)
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb (5) fumbles the ball as his sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan during the second quarter Sunday, Oct. 19, 2003, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Looking on are Giants end Kenny Holmes (90) and Eagles running back Brian Westbrook (36). (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants halfback Kyle Rote catches a 22 yard pass from Charley Conerly, not shown, and carries Philadelphia Eagles Eddie Bell (81) into the end zone with him, to score the last Giants touchdown in the third period of their game Nov. 20, 1955 at the Polo Grounds in New York City. Other Eagles defenders are Linebacker Wayne Robinson (52) and Bob Hudson (42). The Giants won 31-7. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants Joe Danelo is lifted in the air by teammate Gordon King as teammates rush out onto the field to greet him after he kicked a game-winning field goal in the final seconds of Sunday, Jan. 3, 1982 NFL game at Philadelphia's Veterans Stadium. The Giants defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 26-24 (AP Photo/Rusty Kennedy)
Eagles' Jim Carr (21) is too late to prevent completion of a George Shaw pass to Kyle Rote (44) of the Giants in first period of Philadelphia -New York game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Nov. 20, 1960. It was a 47-yard aerial that carried Giants to Eagles' two-yard line. Eagles won a 17-10 come-from-behind victory. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
Dick Bielski of Philadelphia Eagles sees his field goal try go awry from the 30-yard line in first half against New York Giants at Yankee Stadium in New York City, Oct. 18, 1959. Giants won, 24-7, in their first home game of National Football League season. Holding for Bielski is quarterback Sonny Jurgensen. Giant defenders are Lindon Crow, coming in on kicker from right, and Sam Huff, trying for hand block of ball at left. Behind Huff is Eagles' fullback Clarence Peaks. (AP Photo)
Quarterback Fran Tarkenton of the New York Giants gets off a pass as he rushed by defensive end Mel Tom of the Philadelphia Eagles in the first quarter Nov. 27, 1967 in New York's Yankee Stadium. (AP photo)
New York Giants end Bob Crespino (89) takes in a pass from quarterback Fran Tarkenton and is brought down by Nate Ramsey of the Philadelphia Eagles in the national football league game in New York on Nov. 26, 1967. Dave Lloyd of the Eagles (partly obscured by Ramsey) was charged with a foul and Philadelphia was penalized 15 yards. The giants won 44-7. (AP Photo/ Harry Harris)
New York Giants against the Philadelphia Eagles, Dec. 10, 1933. Ken Strong of the Giants going round end for a four-yard gain. (AP Photo)
New York Giants cornerback Jason Sehorn (31) scores a 32-yard touchdown as Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb tries to tackle him during the second quarter of their NFC divisional playoff game Sunday, Jan. 7, 2001, in East Rutherford, N.J. Sehorn set himself up for the play by intercepting a pass by McNabb intended for Eagles' Torrance Small. (AP Photo/Beth A. Keiser)
New York Giants' Dave Tollefson (71) levels Tampa Bay buccaneers quarterback Jeff Garcia as he throws a fourth quarter pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game Sunday Jan 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks with quarterback Eli Manning (10) on the sideline during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) receives a game ball following an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) shakes hands with Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) after the Giants defeated the Buccaneers during an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scores on a 7-yard touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates his touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Russell Shepard during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) beats Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback M.J. Stewart (36) to the endzone to score during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) scores on a 14-yard touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 1, 2017, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants Rodney Hampton (27) powers his way past Tampa Bay Buccaneers Hardy Nickerson en route to the Giants second touchdown of the day during the second quarter of their game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 12, 1993. (AP Photo/Mike Derer)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) makes a touchdown catch during a week 2 football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday September 16, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms eyes the bench and raises his hands in victory after he completed a third down pass for a fourth quarter first down that assured the Giants possession of the ball as the clock ran out on their 17-14 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Giants Stadium, Sept. 23, 1984. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) runs past Tampa Bay Buccaneers strong safety Mark Barron (24) for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game on Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 16, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw is tackled during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants wide receiver Amani Toomer (81) reacts after catching a touchdown pass with teammate Steve Smith (12) during an NFL wildcard football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning celebrates after throwing a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to teammate Amani Toomer during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrates after throwing a fourth quarter touchdown pass during an NFL wild-card football playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008 in Tampa, Fla.. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
New York Giants' Gary Ruegamer (65) congratulates teammate Amani Toomer (81) after Toomer's touchdown-reception from quarterback Eli Manning during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Fla. New York won, 24-14. (AP Photo/Steve Nesius)
New York Giants cornerback Corey Webster celebrates after intercepting a pass intended for Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Joey Galloway during the third quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
New York Giants' Ahmad Bradshaw celebrates on the bench during the closing seconds of the fourth quarter of their NFL wild-card playoff game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Jan. 6, 2008, in Tampa, Florida. (AP Photo/Scott Audette)
Lawrence Taylor of the New York Giants forces Tampa Bay Buccaneer Quarterback Steve DeBerg to throw an incomplete pass to prevent a fourth quarter sack on Sunday, Sept. 24, 1984 game at the Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jon Kitna (3) is sacked by New York Giants linebacker Reggie Torbor (58) during the first half, Sunday, Dec. 26, 2004, in Cincinnati. The Giants' Lance Legree (70) looks on. (AP Photo/Al Behrman)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) during the NFL regular season game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday, Nov. 14, 2016 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won, 21-20. (Ric Tapia via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, practices alongside quarterback Eli Manning (10) before an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Frank Victores)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) scores a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 14, 2016, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants guard Adam Schreiber (67) gets set to snap the ball during an NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Dec. 11, 1994, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Allen Kee via AP)
CINCINNATI - DECEMBER 26: Bengals and Giants players line up at the line of scrimmage prior to the snap during the Cincinnati Bengals against the New York Giants on December 26, 2004 at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Bengals defeated the Giants 23-22. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Jeff Black (8) hits the turf after being tripped up by New York Giants Michael Strahan (92) during the second quarter of their game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey on Sunday, Dec. 11, 1994. Blake gained 4-yards on the play. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
New York Giants' Willie Beamon (21) and Michael Strahan (92) congratulates Kicker Brad Daluiso (3) on his 52-yard field goal in the second quarter of their NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Dec. 11, 1994 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/L.M. Otero)
CINCINNATI - DECEMBER 26: Wide receiver Ike Hillard #88 of the New York Giants runs with the football against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 26, 2004 at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. The Bengals defeated the Giants 23-22. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) is seen in action during an NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals Oct.13, 1985 in Cincinnati. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
New York Giants running back Orleans Darkwa (26) goes up and over Cincinnati Bengals middle linebacker Nico Johnson (52), nose tackle Kwame Geathers (76) and outside linebacker Marquis Flowers (53) for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL preseason football game in Cincinnati, Friday, Aug. 14, 2015. (AP Photo/Frank Victores)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning, center, throws in the second quarter as Giants' Luke Petitgout blocks Seattle Seahawks' Grant Wistrom at right, and Giants Shaun O'Hara (60) and David Diehl (66) block Seahawks' Rocky Bernard Sunday, Nov. 27, 2005 at Qwest Field in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) returns a fumble 13 yards for a touchdown during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 23, 2001. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 27-24. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) celebrates with New York Giants tight end Jake Ballard (85) after catching a second quarter touchdown pass that ties the game at 14-14 during the NFL week 5 football game against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday, October 9, 2011 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Seahawks won the game 36-25. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a touchdown pass as Seattle Seahawks defensive back Walter Thurmond (28) pursues during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants' Evan Engram celebrates his touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday, Oct. 22, 2017, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
FILE - In this Sept. 22, 2002, file photo, New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan celebrates after sacking Seattle Seahawks quarterback Trent Dilfer during the third quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Strahan was nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2013 on Thursday, Sept. 27, 2012. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun, File)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) sacks Seattle Seahawks quarterback Matt Hasselbeck (8) at the Meadowlands, East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 23, 2001. The Giants defeated the Seahawks 27-24. (AP Photo/NFL Photos/Evan Pinkus)
Seattle Seahawks quarter back Stan Gelbaugh (18) gets sacked by Lawrence Taylor (56) of the New York Giants for a 12-yard loss in the first quarter of NFL game at Giants Stadium on Sunday, Oct. 25, 1992 in East Rutherford. Giants' Eric Dorsey, rear moves in to help Taylor. (AP Photo/Kevin Larkin)
New York Giants Sinorice Moss #83 celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Seattle Seahawks in their NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 5, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Eli Manning in action against the Seattle Seahawks in the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 7, 2010, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
New York Giants tight end Jake Ballard (85) breaks a tackle by Seattle Seahawks middle linebacker David Hawthorne for a touchdown as Kam Chancellor (31) looks on during the first quarter of an NFL football game on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2011, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants offensive tackle David Diehl (66) reacts as running back Brandon Jacobs (27) scores a touchdown while fending off Seattle Seahawks safety Brian Russell (25) in the second quarter of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 5, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants wide receiver Plaxico Burress, left, evades Seattle Seahawks cornerback Marcus Trufant (23) and free safety Marquand Manuel, upper right, for a reception in the second quarter Sunday, Nov. 27, 2005, at Qwest Field in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
New York Giants wide receiver Ike Hilliard, right, cradles the ball in the end zone for a touchdown as Seattle Seahawks safety Marcus Robinson, rear, and cornerback Willie Williams, left, defend during the fourth quarter Sunday, Dec. 23, 2001, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Hilliard scored with 20 seconds left in the game to give the Giants the 27-24 win. Looking on is Giants Joe Jurevicius (84). (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Defensive end Michael Strahan #92 of the New York Giants chases Seahawks running back Shaun Alexander #37 while being blocked by offensive tackle Sean Locklear #75 of the Seattle Seahawks at Qwest Field on September 24, 2006 in Seattle, Washington. The Seahawks defeated the Giants 42-30. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
A pass intended for Seattle Seahawks' Paul Skannis (82) is about to be intercepted by Carl Banks, left, of the New York Giants during second quarter of Nov. 9, 1989 game at Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants' Keith Hamilton, top, sacks Arizona Cardinals quarterback Dave Brown during the third quarter Sunday, Nov. 26, 2000 at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz.(AP Photo/Samantha Feldman)
Arizona Cardinals' Patrick Peterson, right, defends New York Giants' Saquon Barkley during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to throw during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrates a touchdown run in a week 7 regular season game against the Arizona Cardinals at MetLife Stadium on Sunday October 20th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Rueben Randle (82) catches a pass for a touchdown in front of Arizona Cardinals' Patrick Peterson (21) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 14, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants linebacker Pepper Johnson (52) makes a leaping interception during an NFL game against the Phoenix Cardinals on November 5, 1989. The Giants defeated the Cardinals 20-13. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants' Saquon Barkley, right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants Leonard Marshall cuts in front of the Phoenix Cardinals Luis Sharpe (67) to sack quarterback Gary Hogeboom (5) in the fourth quarter of Sunday's game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 25, 1989. The Giants defeated the Cardinals 35-7. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
A vocal fan at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Dec. 11, 1978 removes his coat, shirt and coat despite temperatures in the low 20's during 17-0 New York Giants win over the St. Louis Cardinals. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler scrambles for 19 yards and a touchdown against the Phoenix Cardinals during the first quarter of their game in Tempe, Arizona Sunday, Nov. 5, 1989. The Giants led 14-3 at the half. (AP Photo/Rob Schumacher)
Phoenix Cardinals safety Laster Lylcs, right, holds tight to bring down the New York Giants Mark Bavaro after he caught a 36 yard pass from quarterback Phil Simms in the first quarter of NFL game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 4, 1988. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts after throwing a second quarter touchdown to wide receiver Stacy Robinson against the Phoenix Cardinals at Giants Stadium in N.J., Dec. 4, 1988. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
St. Louis Cardinals quarterback Neil Lomax is sacked by New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson in the first quarter of the game, Dec 14, 1986 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
Arizona Cardinals' Larry Fitzgerald (11) and New York Giants' Eli Manning (10) shake hands after an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 2, 2011, in Glendale, Ariz. The Giants defeated the Cardinals 31-27. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
Ron Johnson (30) of the New York Giants is halted in his tracks by Don Parish of the St. Louis Cardinals after Johnson made a gain of five yards in first quarter action on Sunday, Dec. 13, 1970 at St. Louis. (AP Photo)
With a ball tucked under his arm, New York Giants Ernie Koy is brought down from behind by St. Louis Cardinals Jerry Stovall in the first period at Yankee Stadium, Dec. 18, 1967, New York. Ernie picked up 15 yards, good for a first down. Cardinal players at right are Larry Stallings (67) and Larry Wilson. The Giants won the final game of the regular National Football season, 37-14. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants' Lee Rouson carries the ball past St. Louis Cardinals' Collin Scotts, (69), for a three-yard gain in the forth quarter of play in East Ratherfort, N.J. on Sunday, October 26, 1987. The Gaints beat the Cardinals 30-7 for their first win of the season. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber signals first down as Arizona Cardinals' David Barrett (36) watches during the fourth quarter Sunday, Nov. 11, 2001 at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Barber rushed for 118 yards in 17 carries in the Giants 17-10 win.(AP Photo/Matt York)
Cleveland Browns linebacker Jamir Miller (95) hurdles the line to give chase to New York Giants running back Ron Dayne (27) in the first quarter Sunday, Nov. 5, 2000, in Cleveland. Dayne gained seven yards on the play. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan)
New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) scores a touchdown during a week 5 football game against the Cleveland Browns on October 7, 2012 in East Rutherford, New Jersey(AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Gary Harrell (89) points as he gets set to go out for a pass while covered by Cleveland Browns cornerback Antonio Langham (38) during the 1995 NFL preseason football game against the Cleveland Browns on Aug. 6, 1995 in Cleveland. The Giants won the game 19-13. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Cleveland Browns Leroy Kelly (44) during a game against the New York Giants on Decemeber 21,1969 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The New York Giants beat the Cleveland Browns 127-14. Leroy Kelly played for 10 seasons all with the Cleveland Browns He was a 6-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1994.(David Durochik via AP)
Cleveland Browns fullback Jim Brown (32) tries to avoid tackle a tackle attempt during an NFL game against the New York Giants in this undated photo. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
Cleveland Browns defensive tackle Dick Modzelewski (74) takes on two blockers to pressure New York Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14) during an NFL game, Dec. 4, 1964 in Yankees Stadium. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) and New York Giants linebacker Andy Headen (54) gang tackle Cleveland Browns running back Earnest Byner (44) on December 1, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Browns won the game 35-33. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
Cleveland Browns coach Bill Belichick watches play against the New York Giants during an NFL football pre-season game Aug. 6, 1995 in Cleveland. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
Giants quarterback Y.A. Tittle (14), back in the starting role for the New York club, rolls out under a veil of protection to toss a first period pass to teammate Joe Morrison against the Cleveland Browns, Dec. 12, 1964, at Yankee Stadium in New York City. Pass was incomplete. Offering protection for Tittle are, Ernie Wheelwright, (30) Dick James, (47) and Rosey Brown (79). (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Fran Tarkenton (10) gets set to throw a pass during an NFL game against the Cleveland Browns in this undated photo. (Tony Tomsic via AP)
Y.A. Tittle (14) New York Giants? quarterback is shown on the sidelines in the final minutes of game with the Cleveland Browns at Yankee Stadium on Dec. 12, 1964 in New York City. This was the final game of the 1964 season for the Giants and may be Tittle?s last as a player. (AP Photo)
New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz (80) catches a touchdown pass in front of Cleveland Browns cornerback Trevin Wade (26) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 7, 2012, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
New York Giants' half back Frank Gifford heads for a touchdown in second quarter of Giants-Browns game, Dec. 6, 1959. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' left end Bob Schnelker (85) catches Frank Gifford's 7-yard touchdown pass to tie up game with Cleveland Browns at 10-all in final period at New York's Yankee Stadium, Dec. 14, 1958. Cleveland defenders are Ken Konz (center) and Junior Wren (right). Giants' Tackle Frank Youso (72) is in background. Giants kicked a field goal in final two minutes to win game 13-10, and force a playoff by New York and Cleveland for NFL's Eastern Division championship December 21. (AP Photo)
Pat Summerall of the New York Football Giants boots from the 49-yard line, as quarterback Charley Conerly (42) holds, in a play good for three points-- margin of victory over Cleveland Browns at Yankee Stadium, New York, Dec. 14. The play, in the final two minutes of the game, followed another field goal attempt from the 33-yard line by Summerall. At right, in play watched by head linesman Charles Berry (31), Giants' Bill Svoboda (30) blocks Browns' Galen Fiss (35). (AP Photo)
Cleveland Browns fullback Marion Motley (76) gains a yard before being pulled down by New York Giants' Jim Duncan, right, in 1950. AP Photo)
New York Giants pull a double hand-off and lateral against the Cleveland Browns for the only touchdown of National Football League Eastern Division playoff game at New York's Yankee Stadium on Dec. 21, 1958. As play starts on Browns 19-yard line, quarterback Charley Conerly (42) hands off the ball to Alex Webster (29), who hands off the ball to Frank Gifford (16). With a block by Al Barry (68), Gifford breaks away to a 12-yard line where he laterals the ball to Conerly. Conerly is chased by Browns' Bob Gain (79), Browns' Junior Wren (42), but falls across goal line, Giants won 10-0. (AP Photo/Harry Harris)
New York Giants' running back Tiki Barber, center, leaps to a touchdown past Cleveland Browns' Earl Little, left, and Leigh Bodden, right, during the first quarter of play on Sunday, Sept. 26, 2004 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. The Giants beat the Browns 27-10. (AP Photo/Michael Kim)
New York Giants wide receiver Ron Dixon (86) is cheered on by teammates as he runs in for a touchdown while Baltimore Ravens' Matt Stover (3) attempts to catch him during the third quarter Friday, Aug. 25, 2000, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants wide receiver Ron Dixon (86) runs to the end zone on a 97-yard kickoff return in Super Bowl XXXV in Tampa, on Jan. 28, 2001. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the Giants 34 - 7. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants running back Charles Way (30) rushes upfield with the ball during an NFL game against the Baltimore Ravens Sept. 3, 1999, in Baltimore. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants running back David Wilson, right, scores a touchdown in front of Baltimore Ravens strong safety James Ihedigbo in the first half of an NFL football game in Baltimore, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Cornerback Aaron Ross #31 of the New York Giants returns an intercepted pass (his second of the day) for a touchdown during the game against the Baltimore Ravens at Giants Stadium on November 16, 2008 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the Ravens 30-10. AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants running back David Wilson flips after scoring a touchdown in the first half of an NFL football game against the Baltimore Ravens in Baltimore, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2012. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
New York Giants wide receiver Ron Dixon (86) runs upfield during Super Bowl XXXV against the Baltimore Ravens at Raymond James Stadium on Jan. 28, 2001 in Tampa, Fla. The Ravens defeated the Giants 34-7. (Allen Kee via AP)
New York Giants tight end Darcy Johnson, left, celebrates a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens with teammate Kevin Boss (89) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Rob Carr)
New York Giants free safety James Butler (37) and cornerback Aaron Ross (31) celebrate after Ross ran a third quarter interception in for a touchdown in the Giants' 30-10 victory over the Baltimore Ravens during an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Baltimore Ravens cornerback Samari Rolle (22) chases New York Giants running back Ahmad Bradshaw (44) on a 77-yard run that led to a Giants field goal in the fourth quarter in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008. The Giants won 30-10. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) is brought down by New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58) and \Giants defensive tackle Barry Cofield (96) during their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
Baltimore Ravens linebackers Jarret Johnson (95) and Terrell Suggs (55) chase after New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) on a first-quarter 36-yard run during the Giants' 30-10 victory over the Ravens in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Nov. 16, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants head coach Jim Fassel checks over his team during pregame warmups before facing the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XXXV on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2001, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Dave Martin)
Dan Salomone: This is an interesting one because not only are there so many new faces, but the unit will require a collective effort. Plus, new head coach Joe Judge and assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham come from the Bill Belichick tree, which is rooted in adaptability. Their philosophy is to put pressure on opponents by making them prepare for multiple things. Within that, they need personnel versatility/flexibility with the scheme to adjust the game plan, thus maximizing their strengths against any opponent's weaknesses.
Long story short: The focus of the defense won't be concentrated on one player.
Nevertheless, players still need to make plays. Who will they be? Let's start with the newcomers. Former Packer Blake Martinez, who will be the quarterback of the defense, leads the NFL with 441 tackles since 2017 and is second to five-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner since Martinez entered the league in 2016. Former Panther James Bradberry has been tested against the NFC South's gauntlet of receivers and was regularly assigned to shadow them. Kyler Fackrell, another former Packer, has a double-digit sack campaign on his resume.
The coaching staff also hopes to tap into a lot of potential from the team's returning players. Among them is big Dexter Lawrence, who is my answer to this question. This team will find success when it controls the line of scrimmage. The focus around the Giants is often on the offensive line, but the defensive line is just as important, particularly the interior. If you can gain ground inside, then the quarterback or running back is running for his life and the edge defenders can finish the job. The NFC East is stacked with running backs, and the team that can stop the run will win the division. Lawrence, a former first-round pick, along with Leonard Williams and Dalvin Tomlinson, can be a major factor in achieving that goal.
John Schmeelk: This begs for me to be boring. Saquon Barkley, right? Easy peasy. He is going to be one of the most productive players in the NFL, so making him the Giants' offensive MVP should be a no-brainer. Nah – too boring!
If everything goes right, it is going to be Daniel Jones. In truth, the most important player on any high level NFL offense is the quarterback. The quarterback is the engine and the Giants are likely to go only as far as Jones takes them. Nah – too boring!
Instead, I am going to go with the player that I think may be the offense's biggest X-factor: Evan Engram. Will he play in enough games to compile the necessary stats to be the Offensive MVP? Probably not, but that doesn't make him any less important to the unit.
Engram is the team's biggest mismatch amongst their tight ends and wide receivers. At his speed, linebackers have no hope of staying with him in coverage, and even safeties could have issues battling his size down the field on contested catches.
Every Giants fan has seen how Jason Garrett's offense in Dallas featured Jason Witten for more than a decade. Engram could be a similar weapon and go-to player in the red zone with even more big-play ability. He has special skills. If he can ever play 16 games, he could turn the Giants' offense into one of the league's top units.
Dan Salomone: Just follow the green dot. The player with it on his helmet is the one who relays play calls from the coordinator to the men in the huddle. On defense, that will most likely be Blake Martinez. Originally a fourth-round draft choice by Green Bay, Martinez leads the NFL with 441 tackles since 2017 and is second only to five-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner since he entered the league in 2016. He recorded double-digit tackles in 24 of his 61 games played. He also has familiarity with assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham, who was Martinez's position coach with the Packers in 2018.
"I love having the green dot," Martinez said when he signed with the Giants. "It's always been an awesome aspect that I've [been] able to have since my rookie year. I've grown more and more, and just understanding the things that I need to do within the huddle, out of the huddle, pre-snap, all those things that have just been growing throughout the years. I know Pat's extremely open and free with communication that he's going to allow me to do within a given series, within a given game. It's exciting for me to be able to have that freedom. I can't wait to be able to go out there and obviously, lead the Giants defense."
Whether you want to call him a tackling machine or cleanup guy, Martinez said his responsibility is not to let big plays happen. The Giants allowed 79 plays of at least 20 yards last season, tied with the Lions for the third-most in the NFL. There are a lot of intriguing newcomers on this roster, but Martinez is the quarterback of the revamped defense and a promising linebacker corps.
View photos of every roster addition made by the Giants this offseason.
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Morry Gash)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
DL Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
S Nate Ebner
(Ryan Kang via AP)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
K Chandler Catanzaro
TE Levine Toilolo
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
S Montre Hartage
(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) passes during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019 in Santa Clara, Calif. The 49ers defeated the Cowboys 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
DE Dana Levine
(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
DE Oluwole Betiku
(AP Photo/Holly Hart)
OT Tyler Haycraft (60)
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
QB Case Cookus, Northern Arizona
DB Malcolm Elmore, Central Methodist
DE Niko Lalos, Dartmouth
TE Rysen John
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Ryan Kang via AP)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Joe Robbins via AP)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Ryan Kang via AP)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)
DL Austin Johnson
(Scott Boehm via AP)
DL Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
DL Austin Johnson
(Scott Boehm via AP)
DL Austin Johnson
(Paul Spinelli via AP)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Steven Senne)
S Nate Ebner
(Al Tielemans via AP)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Roger Steinman)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Roger Steinman)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
OLB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
OLB Kyler Fackrell
(Scott Boehm via AP)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
LB Blake Martinez
(Ryan Kang via AP)
LB Blake Martinez
(Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo
(G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo
(Kevin Terrell via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (Greg Trott via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (Kevin Terrell via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) in the first half during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. (Rick Scuteri via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) tosses a pass during pregame of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) rolls out to pass during a NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019 in Arlington, Tex. The Cowboys won the game 34-0. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) scrambles up the middle during a 2019 NFL week 2 preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, Saturday, August 17, 2019 in Honolulu. The Cowboys defeated the Rams, 14-10. (James D. Smith via AP)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Amis)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Bazemore)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Sam Craft, File)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Marvin Gentry)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Richard Shiro)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Stephen Dunn)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Mary Schwalm)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Chris Knight)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Chris Knight)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford, File)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/L.G. Patterson)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/John Raoux)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Bill Feig)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Bryan Woolston)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Will Newton)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/AJ Mast)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Wade Payne)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Wade Payne)
LB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
DE Dana Levine
(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Lance Medow: If there's one statistic that is most synonymous with winning and losing games in the NFL, it's turnover differential. In 2019, the Giants had 33 giveaways (17 INT/16 FR), third-most in the league, just behind the Bucs (41) and Panthers (35). On defense, the Giants only recorded 16 takeaways (third-fewest in the NFL) to finish with a turnover differential of minus-17. which tied with the Chargers for last. It's no coincidence that these two teams finished with four and five wins, respectively.
Last season, the offense played just two clean games without turnovers. The first one didn't come until Week 14 in Philadelphia and, the second, two games later at Washington. In 11 of the other 14 games, the Giants turned over the ball at least two times in each contest and had six games with at least three giveaways. Daniel Jones was responsible for 23 of the team's 33 turnovers with 12 interceptions and 11 fumbles, including at least one lost fumble in five straight games from Weeks 7-12. No matter how you break down these numbers, the Giants need to cut down on their turnovers if they want to maximize possessions and take pressure off the defense.
Turnovers and the lack of scoring go hand in hand, and that was brought to the forefront in 2019. Last season, the Giants averaged just over 21 points per game (tied for 18th in the NFL). In nine of their 16 games, they failed to score at least 20 points. If you turn over the ball at the rate New York did last season, you're going to lose possessions/scoring opportunities. The message for this season is crystal clear: protect the ball at all costs.
John Schmeelk: Last season, the Giants ranked 29th in the NFL with 7.6 yards allowed per pass play - this put them in the bottom quarter of the league with the Bengals, Raiders, Dolphins, Cardinals, Lions, Jaguars and Falcons (all non-playoff teams). Six selected in the Top 10 of the draft, and four, including the Giants, were in the Top 5.
I don't care what the Giants do offensively, or against the run defensively. None of it will mean anything if they don't creep their way closer to the middle of the league in yards allowed per pass play. Staying near the bottom of those rankings would inhibit the offense from sticking with a run-first philosophy and force them into too many passing situations that can lead to more turnovers.
There are two facets to improving the pass defense: pass rush and coverage. Spare James Bradberry, the Giants lack established players with long track records in either area of the defense. Lorenzo Carter, Oshane Ximines or Kyler Fackrell need to be consistent pass rushers. Multiple players from the young defensive back group are going to have to step up to be starting caliber NFL players. The season depends on it.
John Schmeelk: Cornerback James Bradberry. The Giants' biggest question mark coming off last season was their pass defense. They released Janoris Jenkins and carried over a room full of young cornerbacks. They needed a veteran to come into the room, be a stabilizing force and bring some experience covering the opponent's best receiver.
In Carolina, Bradberry consistently followed receivers such as Mike Evans, Michael Thomas and Julio Jones no matter where they lined up. I would expect him to do the same for the Giants. Defensive coordinator Patrick Graham could also put Bradberry on an island against the opponent's second-best receiver and run double-teams against its top wideout.
The Giants' pass defense will be the key to the season, and no player affects that more than their top cornerback. When Bradberry was brought in this offseason, he immediately became that player. He will impact the team more than any new addition, and perhaps even more than any other player on the roster not named Daniel Jones.
Lance Medow: For any quarterback entering his second year in the league, the expectations are pretty simple: show improvement across the board. Evaluating a signal-caller isn't just about fantasy football numbers, so I certainly won't dedicate the bulk of my response to a mathematical equation. As it goes without saying, the Giants want to see his stats trend upwards. Case in point: Eli Manning, who played in slightly fewer games than Daniel Jones during his rookie year in 2004, improved his production in just about every statistical category in his second year in the league. But there's one notable difference between year two for Manning and Jones. Manning had the same head coach and play-caller.
Why do I bring up the changes on the coaching staff? Well, that ties right into expectations. For the bulk of the roster, this will be the second or third new scheme players are learning in as many seasons, and when you have a young roster, you never know how the learning curve will play out. This will be Jones' third offense in three years, and now he is adjusting to Jason Garrett's scheme during a virtual process with no on-field work up to this point. This isn't to say that Jones can't handle a new system. How young players deal with change is a true test and can be a challenge. That's something to watch as the season progresses and something to keep in mind when placing expectations on a player.
If there's one stat to watch, it's Jones' fumble rate. He fumbled the ball 18 times (and lost 11) in 12 starts or 1.5 fumbles per start. Ball security is critical for all players but even more important for quarterbacks, who touch the ball on every play. Jones obviously knows this better than anyone and made it his focus this offseason. If both Jones and the offense want to make strides in 2020, they have to maximize possessions and avoid cutting down on the volume of opportunities, or what I like to call at-bats.
View photos of Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throughout his NFL career.
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a touchdown during a footballl game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Andrew Thomas (78)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball during week 1 football game against the Tennessee Titans on Sunday September 11, 2022 in Nashville, Tennesse (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 13 regular season game against the Green Bay Packers at MetLife Stadium on Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after throwing a touchdown pass in the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Billy Price (69)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts after a touchdown against the Atlanta Falcons during an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass as he looks downfield for a receiver in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and running back Saquon Barkley (26) celebrate a touchdown during a week 3 football game against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday September 26th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs downfield with the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Derick Hingle)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates after scoring a touchdown with wide receiver Sterling Shepard (3) against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls a play in the huddle during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs 7-yards for a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, second from left, runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) is congratulated after throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks to his team mates before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for a receiver during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones stands on the field before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants offensive lineman Mike Remmers (74) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after a touchdown during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates with quarterback Daniel Jones (8) after Shepard scored a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during the Nation Anthem before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, left, celebrates with Sterling Shepard after a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) talks with New York Giants wide receiver Golden Tate (15) during a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley takes a handoff from quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and Eli Manning (10) before a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, celebrates a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Antwaun Woods (99) pursues New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. The Cowboys defeated the Giants, 38-17. (James D. Smith via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown run against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage during the first quarter of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) and quarterback Eli Manning (10) warm up before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
QB Daniel Jones (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Dallas Cowboys during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes back to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Jets defeated the Giants 34-27. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands off ball to running back Saquon Barkley (26) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Eagles won 34-17. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) goes to high five a teammate in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) directs his team in the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) reacts in the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones, right, throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Washington Redskins during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Mark Tenally)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) greets defensive back Sam Beal (23) and cornerback Antonio Hamilton (30) while taking the field for workouts prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles for yardage during an NFL game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday Dec.1 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Packers defeated the Giants 31-13. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones works out prior to an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 22, 2019, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) makes a pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out to pass during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019, in Chicago. The Bear defeated the Giants 19-14. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) hands the ball off to New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Green Bay Packers won 31-13. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks to pass during the first half of an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the New York Jets Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) warms up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes the football during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Giants 19-14. (Scott Boehm via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Cowboys defeated the Giants 37-18. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) prior to an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) drops back to throw against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. The Bears defeated the Colts 19-14. (Greg Trott via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019 in Detroit. The Lions defeated the Giants 31-26. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones plays against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates his touchdown throw to New York Giants wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball prior to an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) walks thru the tunnel to the field before an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday October 27, 2019 in Detroit. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) in action against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones looks downfield during the first half of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws the ball during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones rolls out to pass against the New England Patriots in the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones runs the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scores his first NFL touchdown during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones scrambles against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out the play during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, Oct 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants lost 28-10. (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) stands in the tunnel before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Thursday October 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass, (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls an audible at the line of scrimmage against the Minnesota Vikings during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) avoids a tackle by Minnesota Vikings middle linebacker Eric Kendricks (54) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Joe Robbins via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. The Giants won 31-31. (Paul Abell via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones signals during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs for a game winning touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. The Giants defeated the Buccaneers 32-31. (Perry Knotts via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones warms-up before an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates the game winning touchdown with wide receiver Darius Slayton (86) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio, File)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) shakes hands with offensive guard Kevin Zeitler (70) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) passes against the Minnesota Vikings during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scrambles against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rolls out of the pocket against the Minnesota Vikings during the first quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Mark LoMoglio)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs onto the field for wampups before an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones stands back to pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Miami, Saturday, Nov. 3, 2018, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) runs against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Virginia during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Durham, N.C., Saturday, Oct. 1, 2016. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
Duke quarterback Daniel Jones (17) passes against Temple during the first half of the Independence Bowl, an NCAA college football game in Shreveport, La., Thursday, Dec. 27, 2018. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones throws during the first half of NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Nov. 29, 2020, in Cincinnati. (AP Photo/Aaron Doster)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) rushes for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday, Nov. 15, 2020, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) celebrates a touchdown run during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs with the ball in an NFL game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. The Washington Football Team defeated the Giants 30-29. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws over Washington Football Team defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis (98) during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks on during the national anthem against the Washington Football Team prior to an NFL Game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball against the Washington Football Team during an NFL game, Thursday, Sep. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington beat the Giants 30-29. (Cooper Neill via AP)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs during an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021 in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Daniel Kucin Jr.)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass the ball during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) scoring a touchdown against the Washington Football Team during the first half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. (AP Photo/Terrance Williams)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones in action during an NFL football game against the Denver Broncos Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Daniel Jones (8), Saquon Barkley (26)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass to Saquon Barkley (26) during a week 2 Thursday Night football game against the Washington Football Team on Thursday September 16th, 2021 in Landover, Maryland.
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) carries the ball during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks to pass after breaking away from Atlanta Falcons defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. (6) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a Week 4 football game against the New Orleans Saints on Sunday October 3, 2021 in New Orleans, Louisiana
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 1 game against the Denver Broncos on September 12th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) looks for an open man during the second half of an NFL football game against the Washington Football Team, Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021, in Landover, Md. Washington won 30 - 29. (AP Photo/Al Drago)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) calls out between plays in the first half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in New Orleans, Sunday, Oct. 3, 2021. (AP Photo/Brett Duke)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones passes during the first half of an NFL football game against the Atlanta Falcons, Sunday, Sept. 26, 2021, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8), Andrew Thomas (78)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) throws a pass during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Chicago Bears on Sunday October 2, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8)gets introduced before a football game against the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday October 16, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8),
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants tight end Daniel Bellinger (82) celebrates a touchdown catch with New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday September 18, 2022 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus/NY Giants)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a week 7 football game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday October 24th, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones (8)
Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones (8)
The New York Giants take on the Baltimore Ravens at Metlife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ on Sunday October 16, 2022. (Ben Solomon/New York Giants)
Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants quarterback Daniel Jones (8) during a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers, Sunday October 9, 2022 in Tottenham Hotspur Stadium Credit Evan/New York Giants
Dan Salomone: There are three tenets of being a physical football team. The first two – stopping the run and running the ball – are agreed upon by every head coach. The third can be debated. Some say rush the passer; Joe Judge says it is covering kicks. That is the Nick Saban and the Bill Belichick in him. That is the longtime special teams coach, the three-time Super Bowl champion and two-time college football national champion in him.
"Those are three things you need to do to be a physical team, and you can't win in this league without being a physical team," Judge said during this offseason. "You look at the teams every year whose seasons extend longer than other teams. They do certain things in common. That always kind of goes back to the same traits."
Judge's first task as head coach was putting together a staff which, after a methodical search, included six members who were with the Giants last year. Of those, two coach special teams. Thomas McGaughey returns for his third season as special teams coordinator, and he's assisted by his predecessor, Tom Quinn, who was the Giants' special teams coordinator from 2007-17.
"The experience is important, but the success is more important," Judge said. "They've been doing it at a high success rate for a long time. The fact that they had a relationship working together already, I had a relationship with both guys from going against them and have known them within the profession for some time now. T-Mac and Tom do a tremendous job. I love the way they relate to the players, I love the way they coach their guys. You know when you go against their units that they're going to be sound and they're going to play hard, and that's critical. I have a lot of respect for both of them."
In 2019, the Giants' kickoff coverage team led the NFL by allowing an average return of just 18.1 yards while the punt coverage team finished tied for fifth (5.7 avg.). Conversely, the Giants' return squads were fourth and 10th, respectively, on punts (9.8) and kickoffs (23.5).
In other words, Judge liked what he saw.
The unit should only be stronger with the addition of Judge's expertise and the host of players the Giants signed or drafted this offseason. Most notable is Nate Ebner, the lone player to participate in the Olympics (rugby) and win the NFL championship in the same year. Ebner played in New England from 2012-19, the same eight years Judge was either a Patriots special teams assistant or coordinator. Ebner had more than 10 special teams tackles in six of his eight seasons, and the Patriots won all three Super Bowls in which he played (Ebner was sidelined for New England's loss to Philadelphia in Super Bowl LII after tearing his ACL while running for 14 yards and a first down on a fake punt vs. Miami on Nov. 26, 2017).
The Giants also signed Pro Bowl long snapper and former Bronco Casey Kreiter to take over for two-timer Super Bowl champion and two-time Pro Bowl veteran Zak DeOssie, who remains a free agent. Meanwhile, the team selected four linebackers on the final day of the draft, so you know they will have to learn their stripes on special teams.
"No one really looks at those intricacies as much as they do offense or defense, but they're out there and they're happening every game," Ebner said. "In the kicking game, just as well. Those finer points can be the difference-maker, especially in a phase of the game that's a one-play series. You don't get four downs. You don't have a bunch of opportunities. You get one chance. Sometimes, those opportunities can be game-changing opportunities.
"Those details matter, and I think having played as long as I have, I, hopefully, can kind of build on what I've experienced. That's why I love the kicking game. It's a one-play series that's balls to the wall for the entire time. It's not like you get an incomplete pass and you're back in the deep part of the field, and not covering grass and it's a run play or something like that. Every single play in the kicking game is absolutely full speed and a dog fight. Every single one of them. It's fun."
It also wins games.
John Schmeelk: Since we haven't seen this defense in a practice setting, I can only go based on the limited info that has been mentioned by the players and coaches in their off-season interviews. Head coach Joe Judge indicated it would look similar to what Patrick Graham did in Miami. If so, here are some characteristics Giants fans should expect to see:
Plenty of man-to-man
Only Matt Patricia's Detroit Lions played more Cover 1 than the Dolphins last year, according to Pro Football Focus. Detroit spent 516 of their 1144 snaps playing man-to-man with a single-high safety, while the Dolphins used that scheme on 491 of their 1116 defensive snaps. The Patriots and Giants were tied for the fourth-most plays in Cover 1. Coaches from the Bill Belichick tree like to play man-to-man and there's no reason to think the Giants won't do the same in 2020.
High blitz frequency
The Dolphins blitzed on 35.1% of their defensive snaps last year, which was the seventh-highest frequency in the NFL, according to PFF. The Giants blitzed about 30% of the time last year, which was just above the league average. Without a proven pass rusher, Miami used many players standing up at the line of scrimmage to confuse quarterbacks. There were many third-and-longs characterized by several players standing near the line of scrimmage to disguise who was blitzing and who was dropping into coverage.
3-4 base defense
I think Graham will use a 3-4 as his base scheme, but he and Judge have indicated the team's basic fronts can change week to week to counter their opponents.
An amoeba defense
Belichick's defenses have always liked to shift their schemes from week to week or series to series, depending on the opponent's offensive scheme. Judge and Graham have been forthright that they plan on having their defense look very different each week. Shifting schemes like this can make it difficult on opposing offenses to prepare for the Giants' defense.
View photos of every roster addition made by the Giants this offseason.
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Bazemore, File)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Morry Gash)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
DL Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
S Nate Ebner
(Ryan Kang via AP)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
K Chandler Catanzaro
TE Levine Toilolo
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
S Montre Hartage
(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) passes during an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers, Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019 in Santa Clara, Calif. The 49ers defeated the Cowboys 17-9. (Greg Trott via AP)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
DE Dana Levine
(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
DE Oluwole Betiku
(AP Photo/Holly Hart)
OT Tyler Haycraft (60)
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
QB Case Cookus, Northern Arizona
DB Malcolm Elmore, Central Methodist
DE Niko Lalos, Dartmouth
TE Rysen John
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Ryan Kang via AP)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Joe Robbins via AP)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
DB Dravon Askew-Henry
(Ryan Kang via AP)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
LS Casey Kreiter
(AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)
DL Austin Johnson
(Scott Boehm via AP)
DL Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
DL Austin Johnson
(Scott Boehm via AP)
DL Austin Johnson
(Paul Spinelli via AP)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/James Kenney)
RB Dion Lewis
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
QB Colt McCoy
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Aaron M. Sprecher)
S Nate Ebner
(AP Photo/Steven Senne)
S Nate Ebner
(Al Tielemans via AP)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Roger Steinman)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Roger Steinman)
OT Cam Fleming
(AP Photo/Josie Lepe)
OLB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
OLB Kyler Fackrell
(Scott Boehm via AP)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Mike McCarn)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Butch Dill)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Brian Blanco)
CB James Bradberry
(AP Photo/Charles Krupa)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Rick Osentoski)
LB Blake Martinez
(AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
LB Blake Martinez
(Ryan Kang via AP)
LB Blake Martinez
(Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo
(G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo
(Kevin Terrell via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (Greg Trott via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (Kevin Terrell via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
S Montre Hartage
(AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)
S Montre Hartage
(Logan Bowles via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) in the first half during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. (Rick Scuteri via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) tosses a pass during pregame of an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Nov. 17, 2019, in Detroit. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) rolls out to pass during a NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019 in Arlington, Tex. The Cowboys won the game 34-0. (Paul Jasienski via AP)
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Cooper Rush (7) scrambles up the middle during a 2019 NFL week 2 preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams, Saturday, August 17, 2019 in Honolulu. The Cowboys defeated the Rams, 14-10. (James D. Smith via AP)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Amis)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/John Bazemore)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey, File)
OT Andrew Thomas
(AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Vasha Hunt)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Sam Craft, File)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Marvin Gentry)
S Xavier McKinney
(AP Photo/Richard Shiro)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Stephen Dunn)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
OT Matt Peart
(AP Photo/Mary Schwalm)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
CB Darnay Holmes
(AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri, File)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
OL Shane Lemieux
(AP Photo/Tony Avelar, File)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Chris Knight)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Chris Knight)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford, File)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/L.G. Patterson)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/John Raoux)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
DB Chris Williamson
(AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Bill Feig)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/Bryan Woolston)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
S Jaquarius Landrews
(AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Nick Wass)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Will Newton)
RB Javon Leake
(AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
WR Austin Mack
(AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
T Kyle Murphy
(AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Derrick Dillon
(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/AJ Mast)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
WR Binjimen Victor
(AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Wade Payne)
TE Kyle Markway
(AP Photo/Wade Payne)
LB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Karl B DeBlaker)
OLB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Gerry Broome)
DE Dana Levine
(AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
Lance Medow: Joe Judge was asked this question when he spoke with the media in May and his response: "I think, schematically, the easiest way to describe it right now, to the outside world is: It's going to be similarly based on what Jason has done in Dallas over the last 10 or so years. There's going to be some similarities catering to that, but it's got to cater to our players on our roster." It's important to note, Jason Garrett last called plays for the Cowboys in 2012. Since then, Bill Callahan (2013-14), Scott Linehan (2015-18) and Kellen Moore (2019) assumed that role, although Garrett still played an integral role in formulating the game plan on a weekly basis. So the core principles Garrett implemented in 2007, when he took over as Cowboys offensive coordinator, always had a presence.
The Giants will have a balanced offense under Garrett. If you look at his tenure in Dallas, the Cowboys didn't take the ball out of the hands of Tony Romo or Dak Prescott, and I don't see that approach changing with a young signal caller coming off an impressive rookie season in Daniel Jones. Garrett's offense is vertical and aggressive, and one way to take on that persona is to allow your quarterback to make plays. Last season, Prescott (career-high 596 pass attempts) and wide receiver Randall Cobb (1) combined for the Cowboys' 597 throws to 449 rushes. In 2018, the Cowboys had 527 pass attempts to 439 rushes, and in 2017, they threw the ball 493 times against 480 runs. Prescott's pass attempts went up in each of his four seasons while the team's run totals remained in the same ballpark. Keep in mind, Prescott had a new offensive coordinator (Kellen Moore) in 2019 and his attempts still increased. Moore had already been on staff as the quarterbacks coach in 2018, so familiarity was a factor. Therefore, this doesn't necessarily mean Garrett will pull back the reins just because Daniel Jones is learning a new offense and working with a new coordinator.
According to Pro Football Focus, Prescott was the NFL's fourth-best quarterback in 2019 when it came to deep passes (thrown 20+ yards), completing 46% for a 110.2 passer rating and 15.2 yards per attempt. While the deep ball was a staple of the Cowboys' offense, let's not overlook the fact that executing these plays still come down to the individual quarterback, skill position players and offensive linemen.
Although the Giants' personnel isn't a duplication of what Garrett worked with in Dallas, there are still similarities. Much like Ezekiel Elliott, New York has a game-changing running back in Saquon Barkley and whereas Prescott has a bit more experience than Jones, they're both mobile and have the ability to extend plays. The Cowboys have stressed featuring the tight end, specifically Jason Witten, but even Blake Jarwin received opportunities. The Giants can showcase Evan Engram and Kaden Smith, so I would expect both to be utilized in a similar manner. Last season, the latter two combined for 94 receptions on 124 targets, accounting for 24% of the Giants' completions and 21% of the targets. All of these factors are why you can expect aggressive attempts downfield, the presence of a run game fueled by a workhorse, and tight ends to make plays in the middle of the field.
Dan Salomone: "Earn it." Those two words jumped out to me during Joe Judge's introductory press conference in January, and everything has branched off that philosophy. By now, you've heard all about his ties to Nick Saban and Bill Belichick, so it's no surprise where that influence came from. There's no magic scheme or new gimmick that will get the Giants back on track. Judge isn't reinventing the wheel; he is stressing the fundamentals on a daily basis – in the classroom, on the practice field, and then in games. That was the biggest lesson he learned from his wildly successful mentors.
"You don't build the Empire State Building by washing the windows," Judge said. "You build it with the foundation and work it on up."
Tactically, Judge is building a team that can morph week to week. He wants to have the flexibility to adjust the game plan and maximize the Giants' strengths versus the opponent's weaknesses. One week, he will run the ball 50 times; in another, he will pass it 50 times. Of course, you need the right personnel to do it. What the Giants did in the draft and free agency clearly reflects the value he places on versatility.
This has been an off-season like no other for a first-year head coach. Judge has said from the beginning of the virtual program that the advantage goes to the most prepared team going forward. While trying to leave no stone unturned, he knew the biggest challenge to working remotely would be the team-building element. For that, he set up trivia challenges for everyone to get to know each other and their surroundings.
"We kind of took some lessons from really watching my kids do virtual school and some guys from around the country on what they were doing at different colleges and different pro programs," Judge said in a remote interview with the Voice of the Giants Bob Papa as the team wrapped up its off-season program. "I was watching my kids use the Kahoot! app, and we found out a couple of colleges were using the same thing. Really, it started through player development and went across the offense and defense, as well, in terms of having some daily competitions and weekly competitions. We subdivided the teams into different groups and made it competitive, played for some prizes. We were able to ask questions about things related to getting to know your teammate or getting to know the area, organizational history or maybe something directly tied into offense or defense.
"It was fun. It changes it up a little bit. It gets guys interacting. When you first start the meetings, everyone will come in with a muted screen the first couple of weeks. It was very quiet. Then over time, they got more comfortable. Really, the best part of the day was you'd click on a few minutes before the meetings start and you'd hear the players cutting up on each other, kind of calling out who needs a haircut, who's been doing what. That was really the best time, hearing the guys interacting like they would in the locker room. We wanted to let that grow as organically as we could throughout the Spring."
John Schmeelk: Saquon Barkley is the easy answer. He is the most physically gifted played on the roster and may take it to the house any time he touches the ball. He could lead the NFL in 20-yard rushes and yards from scrimmage. Barkley is also an accomplished route runner, and can do more than just turn screens and dump-offs into big plays. I expect to see him on downfield passing routes - whether they are wheel, circle or option routes to get him isolated on slower defensive players. I expect Barkley, who must avoid the injuries that plagued him in his sophomore campaign, to be the focal point of a run-heavy offense in 2020.
I also want to give an honorable mention to Golden Tate. He was extremely productive after returning from last year's four-game suspension. It doesn't look like the veteran has lost much of his athleticism, even though he will turn 32 in August. Tate can still create separation and win on every level of the defense. He is still one of the best receivers in the NFL running after the catch. I think he will lead the team in receptions and become Daniel Jones' go-to receiver.
View photos of all skill position players on the Giants' 90-man roster.
RB Saquon Barkley (Ryan Kang via AP)
RB Dion Lewis (Ric Tapia via AP)
RB Wayne Gallman (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
RB Jon Hilliman (Evan Pinkus via AP)
RB Elijhaa Penny (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
RB Javon Leake (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
RB Sandro Platzgummer (allocated to Giants as part of NFL International Player Pathway Program) (via NFL International)
WR Sterling Shepard
WR Golden Tate (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
WR Darius Slayton (AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
WR Cody Core (Margaret Bowles via AP)
WR Corey Coleman (Al Tielemans via AP)
WR Da'Mari Scott (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
WR David Sills V (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Alex Bachman (Matthew Swensen, New York Football Giants)
WR Austin Mack (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
WR Derrick Dillon (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)
WR Binjimen Victor (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
TE Evan Engram (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
TE Kaden Smith (Kevin Terrell via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
TE Eric Tomlinson (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Garrett Dickerson (Evan Pinkus, New York Football Giants)
TE Kyle Markway (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
TE Rysen John
(Matthew Swensen, New York Football Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a Week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday September 22, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus, New York Football Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a Week 15 regular season game against the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium on Sunday December 15, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus, New York Football Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26) during a Week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ (Jack Tumen, New York Football Giants)
RB Saquon Barkley (26) takes part in a Week 1 game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on Sunday September 8th, 2019 in Arlington, Texas (Evan Pinkus, New York Football Giants)
RB Dion Lewis warms up before an NFL football game between the Titans and the Houston Texans Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)
RB Dion Lewis (33) runs for yardage during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers Sunday, Nov. 3, 2019 in Charlotte, N.C. The Panthers defeated the Titans 30-20. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
RB Dion Lewis (33) before an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars Thursday, Sept. 19, 2019, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
RB Dion Lewis (33) during an NFL football game against the Cleveland Browns, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Cleveland. Tennessee won 43-13. (Aaron Doster via AP)
RB Dion Lewis warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the New England Patriots Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
RB Wayne Gallman runs the ball during the first half of an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
RB Wayne Gallman runs the ball against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
RB Wayne Gallman Jr. (22) runs during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday Sept. 8, 2019 in Arlington, Texas. (Greg Trott via AP)
RB Wayne Gallman carries the ball in the first half of an NFL preseason football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
RB Wayne Gallman (22) carries the ball during a week 17 NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday December 30, 2018 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
RB Jon Hilliman (28) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
RB Jon Hilliman goes in motion before the snap in the first half of an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
New York Giants running back Jon Hilliman warms up before an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
RB Elijhaa Penny runs the ball against the New England Patriots during an NFL football game, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39) takes part in a Week 4 regular season game against the Minnesota Vikings at MetLife Stadium on Sunday October 6th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Jack Tumen, New York Football Giants)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39) during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday November 24, 2019 in Chicago (Evan Pinkus via AP)
RB Javon Leake (20) scores on a one-yard touchdown run in the second half of an NCAA football game against Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
RB Javon Leake (20) runs with the ball during the second half of an NCAA football game against Indiana, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in College Park, Md. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
RB Javon Leake (20) runs against Purdue during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WR Sterling Shepard (87) during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Sterling Shepard runs with the ball during the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
WR Sterling Shepard (87) looks on before an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. (Cooper Neill via AP)
WR Sterling Shepard (87) carries the ball in an NFL game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
WR Sterling Shepard (87) finds running room in the first half of a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
WR Golden Tate (15) makes a catch during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Golden Tate (15) runs a route during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Ryan Kang via AP)
WR Golden Tate (15) signals during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
WR Golden Tate (15) makes a catch for a touchdown over Chicago Bears cornerback Buster Skrine (24) during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
WR Golden Tate (15) plays against the Chicago Bears during the second half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
WR Darius Slayton, right, runs away from New York Jets' Nate Hairston for a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
WR Darius Slayton (86) makes a catch during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Darius Slayton (86) carries the ball in an NFL game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
WR Darius Slayton (86) runs to score a touchdown during the first half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Michael Perez)
WR Darius Slayton (86) runs after a catch against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
WR Cody Core (17) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Cody Core (17) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Cody Core (17) catches a pass during warm-ups prior to an NFL game against the New York Giants, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
WR Corey Coleman (19) returns a kickoff in action against the Tennessee Titans Sunday December 16, 2018 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
WR Corey Coleman (19) catches a pass during an NFL game against the Washington Redskins, Sunday, Dec. 9, 2018, Landover, MD. (Al Tielemans via AP)
WR Corey Coleman (19) runs during an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, Sunday, Dec. 23, 2018 in Indianapolis. (Scott Boehm via AP)
WR Da'Mari Scott (18) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR Da'Mari Scott (18) walks on the field before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
WR Da'Mari Scott (18) makes a catch before an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins Sunday December 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
WR David Sills V runs a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, March 2, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
WR David Sills V runs a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, March 2, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)
WR David Sills (13) warms up before an NCAA college football game against Tennessee in Charlotte, N.C., Saturday, Sept. 1, 2018. (AP Photo/Chuck Burton)
WR Alex Bachman runs a play during the second half of a preseason NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Saturday, Aug. 17, 2019, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
WR Alex Bachman runs against the Oakland Raiders during the first half of a preseason NFL football game Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019, in Oakland, Calif. (AP Photo/D. Ross Cameron)
WR Alex Bachman (15) runs during an NFL preseason football game against the Oakland Raiders on Saturday, Aug. 10, 2019 in Oakland, Calif. (Ric Tapia via AP)
WR Austin Mack (11) celebrates after scoring on a 16-yard touchdown reception against Michigan in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
WR Austin Mack, top, makes a catch against Oklahoma defender Robert Barnes during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
WR Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
WR Derrick Dillon (19) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Derrick Dillon (19) carries in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
WR Derrick Dillon (19) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
WR Binjimen Victor, right, catches a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
WR Binjimen Victor makes a catch for a touchdown against Florida Atlantic during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
WR Binjimen Victor (9) fends off Wisconsin cornerback Semar Melvin (20) after making a catch during the first half of the Big Ten championship Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
TE Evan Engram (88) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Evan Engram (88) runs the ball during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
TE Evan Engram, right, scores a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday, Dec. 30, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
TE Evan Engram (88) runs the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
TE Evan Engram, right, leaps over Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Brent Grimes during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 18, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez)
TE Kaden Smith (82) runs in for a touchdown in front of Chicago Bears strong safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (21) during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
TE Kaden Smith (82) runs with the ball after making a catch during an NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers Sunday December 1st, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Kaden Smith (82) catches a pass during warm-ups prior to an NFL game against the New York Giants, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
TE Kaden Smith (82) runs with the ball in the second half of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Sunday, Dec. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
TE Kaden Smith (82) celebrates a touchdown against the Chicago Bears during the first half of an NFL football game in Chicago, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
TE Levine Toilolo (83) warms up before an NFL football game against the Seattle Seahawks in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 11, 2019. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
TE Levine Toilolo (83) goes in motion during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019 in Glendale, Ariz. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (83) catches a pass before an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams, Sunday, Oct. 13, 2019, in Los Angeles. (Kevin Terrell via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (83) runs in pregame during an NFL game against the Seattle Seahawks, Sunday Dec. 29, 2019 in Seattle. (Greg Trott via AP)
TE Levine Toilolo (83) during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Cincinnati (Aaron Doster via AP)
TE Eric Tomlinson (83) during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday September 8, 2019 in Arlington,Texas. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Eric Tomlinson (83) during an NFL football game against the Buffalo Bills, Sunday September 15, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Eric Tomlinson runs with the football as he warms up against the Dallas Cowboys during a NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019, in Arlington, Texas. (G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
TE Garrett Dickerson (89) during an NFL football preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Thursday, August 22, 2019 in Cincinnati. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
TE Garrett Dickerson (89) catches a pass during warm-ups prior to an NFL game against the New York Giants, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (Margaret Bowles via AP)
TE Garrett Dickerson (89) runs with the football during an NFL preseason football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019 in Cincinnati. (Scott Boehm via AP)
Kyle Markway runs with the ball against Vanderbilt defensive back BJ Anderson (16) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Kyle Markway runs for yardage in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Tennessee, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)
Kyle Markway runs with the ball against Vanderbilt defensive back BJ Anderson (16) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Lance Medow: Following the draft, the team signed two wide receivers from Ohio State - Austin Mack (6-2) and Binjimen Victor (6-4), who bring length and size to the room. The Giants already have a great deal of versatility with their top three wideouts - Golden Tate, Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton - but if there's one facet missing, it's size. That's why I think Mack and Victor could surprise many and compete for roster spots.
Both rookie receivers are coming off career years at OSU, mainly because their playing time increased after having to patiently wait for opportunities. Mack has a knack for working the sidelines and came through with some nifty grabs last season as he posted career highs in receptions (27), receiving yards (361) and touchdowns (3), but Victor's even a bit more intriguing because he can assume the role of a skyscraper for Daniel Jones. Victor hauled in 17 touchdowns over the last three seasons, primarily serving as a red zone target. The Buckeyes constantly turned to him when they were in scoring position and more often than not, he won jump balls against various corners.
It's easy to classify Victor as a typical tall, red zone receiver, but don't overlook his subtle speed and stride. On several occasions, the Buckeyes found ways to get Victor into open space and his ability to collect yardage after the catch and elude defenders can go unnoticed. Last October against Michigan State, he turned a short pass up the sideline for a 60-yard touchdown. The Buckeyes also targeted him deep downfield. I think Victor could serve as the perfect complement to the main receiving corps and provide more options for Jones.
View photos of every undrafted free agent signed by the Giants.
WR Austin Mack, Ohio State
DB Jaquarius Landrews, Mississippi State
DE Dana Levine, Temple
RB Javon Leake, Maryland
OT Kyle Murphy, Rhode Island
TE Kyle Markway, South Carolina
WR Binjimen Victor, Ohio State
LB Dominique Ross, UNC
WR Derrick Dillon, LSU
Michigan's Shea Patterson runs the ball as Illinois' Tony Adams (6) and Oluwole Betiku, Jr. (47) close in during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct.12, 2019, in Champaign, Ill. (AP Photo/Holly Hart)
OT Tyler Haycraft (60), Louisville
QB Case Cookus, Northern Arizona
DE Niko Lalos, Dartmouth
TE Rysen John
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) carries as Arkansas defensive back Santos Ramirez tries to tackle in the first half of an NCAA college football game in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) carries against Utah State linebacker David Woodward (9) in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Utah State in Baton Rouge, La., Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019. LSU won 42-6. LSU won 42-6. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) in the first half during the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against UCF, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) catches a pass over the outstretched arms of Auburn linebacker Deshaun Davis (57) and runs in for a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) escapes the attempted tackle of Auburn defensive back Jeremiah Dinson (20) and runs for a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Auburn, Ala. (AP Photo/Butch Dill)
LSU wide receiver Derrick Dillon (19) scores a touchdown against UCF during the first half of the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game, Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Glendale, AZ. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Louisville head coach Scott Satterfield gets dunked with water by offensive lineman Tyler Haycraft (60) in the final moments of the fourth quarter of Louisville's win over Mississippi State in the Music City Bowl NCAA college football game Monday, Dec. 30, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. Louisville won 38-28. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) catches a 19-yard pass for a touchdown in front of Florida safety Donovan Stiner (13) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) runs with the ball during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) runs for yardage in the first half of an NCAA college football game against Tennessee, Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) runs with the ball against Vanderbilt defensive back BJ Anderson (16) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. South Carolina defeated Vanderbilt 24-7. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
South Carolina's Kyle Markway (84) and Bailey Hart (16) celebrate after defeating Georgia 20-17 in double overtime of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) runs for yardage as he's defended by Tennessee defensive back Jaylen McCollough (22) in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 26, 2019, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne)
South Carolina tight end Kyle Markway (84) holds a piece of the Sanford Stadium hedge in his teeth as he celebrates defeating Georgia 20-17 in double overtime of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
North Carolina's Khadry Jackson (8) and Dominique Ross (3) tackle Mercer's Chris Ellington (88) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Chapel Hill, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
Mercer's Tyray Devezin (34) is tackled by North Carolina's Dominique Ross (3) and Tomon Fox (12) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Chapel Hill, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
North Carolina's Dominique Ross (3) reacts after a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mercer in Chapel Hill, N.C., Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019. (AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor, top, celebrates his touchdown against Maryland with teammate Billy Price during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 7, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
West wide receiver Binjimen Victor, of Ohio State, (19) pulls in a touchdown pass against the East during the second half of the East West Shrine football game Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Ohio State coach Ryan Day, right, celebrates with defensive tackle wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) following the team's 34-21 win over Wisconsin in the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game, early Sunday, Dec. 8, 2019, in Indianapolis. AP Photo/AJ Mast)
West wide receiver Binjimen Victor, of Ohio State, (19) pulls in a touchdown pass in front of East cornerback Stantley Thomas-Oliver III, of Florida International University, (39) during the second half of the East West Shrine football game Saturday, Jan. 18, 2020, in St. Petersburg, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) rushes against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Piscataway, N.J. Ohio State won 56-21. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) runs during the second half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game against Wisconsin, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) celebrates following the team's 34-21 win over Wisconsin in the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. Ohio State won 34-21. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) runs during the first half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game against Wisconsin, Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) rushes against Rutgers during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Piscataway, N.J. Ohio State won 56-21. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) fends off Wisconsin cornerback Semar Melvin (20) after making a catch during the first half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) is tackled by Wisconsin linebacker Leo Chenal (45) during the second half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) runs past Wisconsin linebacker Leo Chenal (45) during the second half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game Saturday, Dec. 7, 2019, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor makes a catch for a touchdown against Florida Atlantic during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
Ohio State quarterback Justin Fields (1) congratulates wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) on scoring a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Rutgers on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor is tackled by Washington defensive back JoJo McIntosh during the first half of the Rose Bowl NCAA college football game Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2019, in Pasadena, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor is seen against Florida Atlantic during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) makes a catch during the first half of the Big Ten championship NCAA college football game against Northwestern, Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor plays against Tulane during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 22, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) catches a pass for a touchdown as Rutgers defensive back Damon Hayes (22) defends during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
Ohio State's Binjimen Victor (9) catches a pass in front of Penn State's Amani Oruwariye (21) and runs in for a touchdown during the second half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018. Ohio State won 27-26. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)
Ohio State wide receiver Binjimen Victor (9) catches a pass for a touchdown as Rutgers defensive back Damon Hayes (22) defends during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 30, 2017, in Piscataway, N.J. (AP Photo/Mel Evans)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor plays against Michigan State during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor, right, tries to avoid Rutgers defensive back Damon Hayes during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State beat Rutgers 52-3. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor runs after a catch as Michigan State linebacker Tyriq Thompson makes the tackle during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. Ohio State beat Michigan State 48-3. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State receiver Binjimen Victor, top, catches a touchdown against Illinois defensive back Frank Sumpter during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 18, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State receiver Austin Mack, right, stiff arms UNLV defensive back Dalton Baker during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 23, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack (11) scores on a 16-yard touchdown reception against Michigan in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack catches a pass during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Northwestern Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, in Evanston, Il. Ohio State won 52-3. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Ohio State receiver Austin Mack plays against Miami (Ohio) during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack is lifted after scoring on a pass from quarterback Justin Fields during the second half of the team's NCAA college football game against Northwestern on Friday, Oct. 18, 2019, in Evanston, Ill. Ohio State won 52-3. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack (11) makes a reception, defended by Michigan defensive backs Tyree Kinnel (23) and Brandon Watson (28), in the third quarter of an NCAA college football game in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Nov. 25, 2017. Ohio State won 31-20. (AP Photo/Tony Ding)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack (11) during the first half of the Fiesta Bowl NCAA college football game against Clemson, Saturday, Dec. 28, 2019, in Glendale, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri).
Ohio State receiver Austin Mack plays against Cincinnati during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack, top, makes a catch against Oklahoma defender Robert Barnes during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Sept. 10, 2017, in Columbus, Ohio. Oklahoma won 31-16. (AP Photo/Paul Vernon)
Ohio State wide receiver Austin Mack plays in Ohio State's NCAA college football spring game Saturday, April 16, 2016, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) checks over his shoulder for the Indiana defense as he rushes the ball into the end zone to score during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. Indiana won 34-32. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) runs with the ball during the second half of an NCAA football game against Indiana, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019, in College Park, Md. Indiana won 34-28. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) runs against Purdue during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Maryland running back Javon Leake runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) runs in for a touchdown against Purdue during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Oct. 12, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
FILE - In this Sept. 7, 2019, file photo, Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) runs against Syracuse during the first half of an NCAA college football game, in College Park, Md. Leake was selected to The Associated Press All-Big Ten Conference team, Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019. (AP Photo/Will Newton, File)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) strides into the end zone to score during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. Indiana won 34-32. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) scores on a one-yard touchdown run in the second half of an NCAA football game against Michigan in Ann Arbor, Mich., Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018. Michigan 42-21. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
Maryland running back Javon Leake (20) in action during the first half of an NCAA college football against Temple, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Philadelphia. Temple won 20-17. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)
Rhode Island offensive lineman Kyle Murphy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Rhode Island guard Kyle Murphy runs a drill during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Rhode Island offensive lineman Kyle Murphy participates in a drill during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Rhode Island offensive lineman Kyle Murphy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Rhode Island offensive lineman Kyle Murphy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Rhode Island guard Kyle Murphy runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) pushes Louisville wide receiver Tutu Atwell (1) out of bounds in the first half of the Music City Bowl NCAA college football game Monday, Dec. 30, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) spins as he intercepts an Abilene Christian pass during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, in Starkville, Miss. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Abilene Christian wide receiver Kobe Clark (88) has a pass knocked away by Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 23, 2019, in Starkville, Miss. Mississippi State won 45-7. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) pursues Mississippi quarterback John Rhys Plumlee (10) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Starkville, Miss., Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
LSU wide receiver Justin Jefferson (2) cradles a pass as he is tackled by Mississippi State safety Jaquarius Landrews (11) during the first half of their NCAA college football game against Mississippi State in Starkville, Miss., Saturday, Oct. 19, 2019. LSU won 36-13. (AP Photo/Rogelio V. Solis)
Temple defensive end Dana Levine (17) celebrates after sacking South Florida quarterback Jordan McCloud during the first half of an NCAA college football game Thursday, Nov. 7, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Dan Salomone: First, let's recap the 10-man draft class:
- Georgia OT Andrew Thomas, Round 1, Pick 4
- Alabama S Xavier McKinney, Round 2, Pick 36
- UConn OT Matt Peart, Round 3, Pick 99
- UCLA CB Darnay Holmes, Round 4, Pick 110
- Oregon G Shane Lemieux, Round 5, Pick 150
- Penn State LB Cam Brown, Round 6, Pick 183
- Minnesota LB Carter Coughlin, Round 7, Pick 218
- South Carolina LB TJ Brunson, Round 7, Pick 238
- Minnesota CB Chris Williamson, Round 7, Pick 247
- Georgia LB Tae Crowder, Round 7, Pick 255
Let's break it down by position, starting with fourth overall pick Andrew Thomas. The tackle was the highest-drafted offensive lineman by the Giants since Ohio State's John Hicks was selected third overall in 1974. The Giants had an opening at right tackle after Mike Remmers, the starter in 2019, signed with the Kansas City Chiefs. Thomas will also get a look on the left side, where Nate Solder started every game the last two seasons. The Giants also signed veteran Cameron Fleming, who has experience at both tackle positions, in addition to close ties to parts of the coaching staff from their time together in Dallas.
"The good thing about all of our tackles is they play on both sides," coach Joe Judge said. "If you look across the board, everyone on our depth chart right now has played on the right and the left. Everyone is going to come in on Day 1 and compete and as they shake out, whether that demonstrates being a starter at whatever position, that's where they'll fall. We went into this with several players we thought had the ability to go on both sides, right or left. We made a decision that we're going to let training camp figure that out."
The Giants didn't end there in the draft. They used three of their top five picks on the offensive line. Matt Peart, a “skinny” 6-foot-7, 318-pound tackle, started all 48 games in his four-year career at UConn – 24 at right tackle in his first two seasons and 24 at left tackle in his final two years. As Judge put it, Peart is not a "developmental" player; he is "developing." He has a lot of upside that intrigues the front office and coaching staff. Guard Shane Lemieux, meanwhile, will cross-train center. Will Hernandez and Kevin Zeitler are the incumbents at guard, but the center competition will be one to watch all summer - with Spencer Pulley the proven veteran at the position.
Onto the secondary. After drafting Xavier McKinney, the Giants picked up the fifth-year option on the rookie contract of fellow safety Jabrill Peppers, virtually ensuring he will be with the team through the 2021 season.
NFL teams are permitted to exercise the fifth-year option on first-round draft choices after they have played three years. When a player has his option exercised, his rookie contract is extended by one year and guaranteed. The player is protected against injury, but isn't eligible to enter unrestricted free agency until after the conclusion of the fifth season.
McKinney, who had a first-round value on the Giants' draft board, first caught Judge's attention a few years ago while scouting a Spring practice at Alabama for the Patriots. McKinney can play low, cover tight ends, and he's a good tackler. Meanwhile, chess master Darnay Holmes is competing for the nickel role, and Chris Williamson has some safety-corner flexibility, as well.
The linebackers. This is one of the team's most intriguing linebacker corps in recent memory. The Giants went heavy at the position on Day 3 of the draft, after signing tackling machine Blake Martinez (unofficially 155 total stops in 2019) and Kyler Fackrell (10.5 sacks in 2018) from Green Bay.
"I think it says a lot more about how our defensive scheme fits together," Judge said of assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. "That we are going to play with a lot of linebackers throughout the game. You build your defense to build two thirds of your team, that's really your defense and your kicking game for covering kicks. These guys have a lot of impact across the board right there."
John Schmeelk: Since we haven't seen any team practices, thanks to OTAs and minicamps taking place remotely, it is very difficult to tell where the coaching staff stands each position. Therefore, this is going to be a longer list than usual.
Offensive Tackle
It appears to be a three-way battle for two starting spots between veteran Nate Solder, newcomer Cameron Fleming and fourth overall pick Andrew Thomas. Solder hasn't played right tackle since he was a rookie. Thomas played right tackle three seasons ago as a sophomore, but has played on the left side the last two seasons. Fleming has played the right and left side over the course of his career, but has spent most of his recent seasons on the left (backing up Tyron Smith in Dallas). If I had to guess, with Solder more comfortable on the left side, he winds up there - with Thomas winning the right tackle spot. Nick Gates and third-round choice Matt Peart are dark horses in this competition.
Center
Fifth-year pro Spencer Pulley is the only player on the roster with starting experience at center, with 26 starts over the last three seasons with the Chargers and Giants. His main competition will be from rookie guard Shane Lemieux, who never played center in a game at Oregon, but worked there at practice. Nick Gates, a 2018 undrafted free agent, is a potential candidate despite not having played there with the Giants. He started games at right guard and right tackle last season. Finally, there's Jon Halapio, who is unsigned and recovering from an achilles injury he suffered late last December. The Giants have indicated he could be re-signed and enter the fray, if he is healthy. Only because of his experience, Pulley would have to be considered the leader in the clubhouse.
Edge Rusher/3-4 Outside Linebacker
The Giants are returning one of their starters at this position in Lorenzo Carter. He will have to compete with newly arrived Kyler Fackrell and second-year edge rusher Oshane Ximines. There is also a chance that Markus Golden, the team's sack leader from last season, returns given his unrestricted free agent tag. The question for this group is: Who can consistently set the edge and, more importantly, win with some level of consistency against offensive tackles while going after the quarterback. If Golden doesn't re-sign, Carter and Fackrell (10.5 sacks in 2018), seem like logical choices here. I expect this battle to be close and for all of them to rotate, regardless of who starts. Rookies Carter Coughlin and Cameron Brown are the dark horses.
View photos of the Giants' active roster as it currently stands.
OT Jackson Barton
WR C.J. Board
CB James Bradberry
LB Cam Brown
LB TJ Brunson
DB Adrian Colbert
LB Carter Coughlin
LB Tae Crowder
P Riley Dixon
LB Devante Downs
(Kevin Terrell via AP)
DB Nate Ebner
TE Evan Engram
LB Kyler Fackrell
OT Cameron Fleming
RB Wayne Gallman
K Graham Gano
G Nick Gates
DB Madre Harper
G Will Hernandez
DL B.J. Hill
(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
DB Darnay Holmes
DT Austin Johnson
QB Daniel Jones
LS Casey Kreiter
DE Niko Lalos
DL Dexter Lawrence
G Shane Lemieux
RB Dion Lewis
CB Julian Love
WR Austin Mack
LB Blake Martinez
LB David Mayo
QB Colt McCoy
DL R.J. McIntosh
(Scott Boehm via AP)
DB Xavier McKinney
RB Alfred Morris
OL Kyle Murphy
OT Matt Peart
S Jabrill Peppers
WR Dante Pettis
C Spencer Pulley
DB Logan Ryan
DE Jabaal Sheard
WR Sterling Shepard
WR Darius Slayton
(AP Photo/Michael Perez)
TE Kaden Smith
WR Golden Tate III
OT Andrew Thomas
TE Levine Toilolo
DL Dalvin Tomlinson
DL Leonard Williams
CB Isaac Yiadom
G Kevin Zeitler
Inside Linebacker
If the Giants play a base 3-4 defense, they need a second inside linebacker to play next to Blake Martinez. They also will probably need a second off-ball linebacker on passing downs. They could use safety Jabrill Peppers in this role, but it's uncertain if that's being considered. Ryan Connelly is entering his second year and coming back from a torn achilles tendon injury and David Mayo was strong against the run last year. Rookies TJ Brunson, Tae Crowder, and 2019 undrafted free agent Josiah Tauaefa could also play themselves into some reps. There's also a possibility Cam Brown or Carter Coughlin move inside to claim one of these roles. Mayo is a reasonable choice on run downs, but the second off-ball linebacker in passing situations is wide open.
Outside Cornerback
James Bradberry is secure in his starting spot on one side, but who plays opposite him? The Giants have invested multiple draft picks at the position in the last few years and each of them - DeAndre Baker, Sam Beal, and Corey Ballentine - will have a chance. Baker is dealing with off-the-field issues, and coming off an up-and-down rookie season as last year's third first-round pick. Beal (shoulder, hamstring) has been unable to stay healthy over his first two seasons after being drafted in the third round of the 2018 supplemental draft. Ballentine struggled playing inside as a rookie but didn't have much of an opportunity to play outside, where he excelled in college and during training camp. One sleeper to watch is Montre Hartage, who was an undrafted free agent with the 2019 Dolphins and bounced between their roster and practice squad under defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. This could be the most important position battle of them all.
Nickel Cornerback
Grant Haley, a 2018 undrafted free agent, is the incumbent, with 12 starts at nickel in his first two seasons. Corey Ballentine started two games at the end of last year but had never played inside prior to arriving with the Giants. In April, the Giants drafted Darnay Holmes, an extremely athletic 5-9 corner from UCLA in the fourth round. His athletic package profiles as someone who should succeed playing inside, where he excelled at the Senior Bowl. It would not surprise me if the rookie figures out a way to win this battle by the end of camp or a few games into the regular season. There's also a possibility that second-year pro Julian Love gets time at slot corner, a position he sometimes played in college. Seventh-round pick Chris Williamson is an under-the-radar player who could compete here.
Safety
I feel fairly confident that Jabrill Peppers will be one of the starting safeties in their base defense. It makes sense to think that second-round pick Xavier McKinney will be the other starter, but Julian Love (a former fourth-round pick) may have something to say about that. All three of these players are versatile, which should give Patrick Graham a lot of options to move them around. This is less of a competition and more of an opportunity to see how he will use their respective talents. I expect all three to be frequently on the field together.
Giants App
Download the Giants' official app for iPhone, iPad and Android devices
