The biggest roster decisions this summer will be on the defensive line.
John Schmeelk: Fact - but this is not in regard to the starters. I would be very surprised if Dalvin Tomlinson, Dexter Lawrence, and Leonard Williams aren't the team's three starting defensive linemen in their base 3-4 defense. We know that with some level of certainty. Figuring out who will make up the back-end of the roster at the position is much more interesting.
BJ Hill is likely to be the fourth defensive lineman, but then things get more complicated. RJ McIntosh and Chris Slayton were 2019 draft picks, while free agent addition Austin Johnson is a former first-round pick. It is unlikely all of those linemen make the roster, and that's without mentioning others, such as Oluwole Betiku, Niko Lalos, and Dana Levine.
Dan Salomone: Fiction - The Giants used 40 percent of their 2020 draft capital on linebackers, so let's start there. Cam Brown, Carter Coughlin, TJ Brunson, and Tae Crowder were Day 3 selections who joined free-agent additions Blake Martinez and Kyler Fackrell to make one of the most promising Giants linebacker corps in recent memory. Special teams will be the deciding factor in any roster decisions for the younger players.
Lance Medow: Fiction - I think, at this point, the Giants have a pretty good idea of what they're working with on the defensive line. Leonard Williams, Dalvin Tomlinson and Dexter Lawrence are penciled in as the starters, with B.J. Hill, R.J. McIntosh, Chris Slayton and free-agent addition Austin Johnson competing for two or three spots. I'm not saying there's not competition on the back end of the depth chart, but I wouldn't list the defensive line as the position that presents the toughest challenge to make roster decisions.
Instead, I'm actually going with a position that, likely, many are overlooking: quarterback. In a typical season, I wouldn't even entertain this spot but, given the current circumstances of the country, this is a year when you have to think hard about keeping an extra quarterback or two (maybe even quarantining one) who have familiarity with the scheme. The Giants have five signal-callers on the roster and I think you need to find a way to keep all of them, between the active roster and practice squad. Retaining at least three on the active roster is a must, so that means a battle for behind Daniel Jones between Colt McCoy, Alex Tanney and Cooper Rush (who knows Jason Garret's system very well having played in Dallas over the last three seasons). Someone like Rush holds a great deal of value because you could potentially quarantine him. Unless they tweak the rules governing the practice squad, Tanney is ineligible to be placed on that unit because he has too many accrued seasons in the NFL.
View photos of every member of the defensive front on the Giants' 90-man roster.
DL Leonard Williams
(Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
DL Dalvin Tomlinson
(Ryan Kang via AP)
DL Dexter Lawrence
(Ryan Kang via AP)
DL B.J. Hill
(AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
DL RJ McIntosh
(Ryan Kang via AP)
NT Austin Johnson
(AP Photo/Mark Zaleski)
DL Chris Slayton
(Scott Boehm via AP)
OLB Markus Golden
(Ryan Kang via AP)
OLB Lorenzo Carter
(Greg Trott via AP)
OLB Oshane Ximines
(AP Photo/Vera Nieuwenhuis)
LB Kyler Fackrell
(Scott Boehm via AP)
OLB David Mayo
(Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LB Blake Martinez
(Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LB Ryan Connelly
(Evan Pinkus via AP)
LB Devante Downs
(Kevin Terrell via AP)
LB Josiah Tauaefa
(Kevin Terrell via AP)
LB Mark McLaurin
(Matthew Swensen, New York Football Giants)
LB Chris Peace
(Matthew Swensen, New York Football Giants)
LB Cam Brown
(AP Photo/Barry Reeger)
LB Carter Coughlin
(AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LB T.J. Brunson
(AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
LB Tae Crowder
(AP Photo/John Amis)
LB Dominique Ross
(AP Photo/Ben McKeown)
DE Oluwole Betiku
(AP Photo/Holly Hart)
DE Dana Levine
(AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
DE Niko Lalos, Dartmouth
Leonard Williams (99) runs around the edge as Philadelphia Eagles offensive tackle Lane Johnson (65) blocks during an NFL football game, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) looks to pass under pressure from Leonard Williams (99) in the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 15, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Leonard Williams (99) motions after a play against the Dallas Cowboys during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Leonard Williams (99) lines up on the line of scrimmage during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Leonard Williams (99) during a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dalvin Tomlinson (94) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dalvin Tomlinson (94) celebrates with teammates after the New York Jets missed a field goal during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
Dalvin Tomlinson (94) lines up on the line of scrimage during the first half of an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018. (AP Photo/Roger Steinman)
Dalvin Tomlinson (94) celebrates after he sacks Detroit Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Images/Rick Osentoski)
Dalvin Tomlinson (94) during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears Sunday November 24, 2019 in Chicago (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dexter Lawrence (97) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday December 29th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dexter Lawrence (97) runs around the edge during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Dexter Lawrence (97) waits for the snap 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)
Dexter Lawrence during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Winslow Townson/AP Images for Panini)
Dexter Lawrence (97) rushes during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Ryan Kang via AP)
B.J. Hill (95) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Monday December 9th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Chase Daniel (4) scrambles as B.J. Hill (95) looks to make the hit during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 2, 2018, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
B.J. Hill (95) during a week 16 NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday December 23, 2018 in Indianapolis. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
B.J. Hill (95) during an NFL preseason game against the Chicago Bears on Friday, Aug. 16, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Ric Tapia via AP)
B.J. Hill (95) closes to the ball during an NFL football game against the New York Jets, Sunday Nov. 10, 2019 in East Rutherford, N.J. (Damian Strohmeyer via AP)
RJ McIntosh (90) during a preseason week 2 game against the Chicago Bears on Thursday, August 16, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
RJ McIntosh (90) runs during an NFL preseason football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, Thursday, Aug. 22, 2019 in Cincinnati. (Scott Boehm via AP)
RJ McIntosh (90) during a week 14 NFL football game against the Washington Redskins on Sunday December 9, 2018 in Landover Md. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Austin Johnson (94) sacks Dak Prescott (4) during the second half of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 5, 2018, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
Austin Johnson (94) gets set in a three point stance during the game against the Kansas City Chiefs during the NFL AFC Championship football game, Sunday, Jan. 19, 2020, in Kansas City, MO. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
Austin Johnson (94) lines up against Jack Doyle (84) in the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/James Kenney)
Chris Slayton (99) during a preseason week 2 game against the Chicago Bears on Thursday, August 16, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Chris Slayton participates in Training Camp at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus, New York Football Giants)
Chris Slayton (99) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ (Matthew Swensen, New York Football Giants)
Markus Golden (44) during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings Sunday October 6, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Markus Golden in action during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)
Markus Golden (44) celebrates over Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Markus Golden (44) waits for the snap during an NFL game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. (Greg Trott via AP)
Lorenzo Carter (59) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Lorenzo Carter (59) in action on defense during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019 in Detroit. (Joe Robbins via AP)
Lorenzo Carter (59) looks across the line of scrimmage ready to rush during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Lorenzo Carter (59) during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles Monday December 9th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Lorenzo Carter (59) tackles Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, NJ. (James D. Smith via AP)
Oshane Ximines (53) during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins Sunday December 15th, 2019 in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Oshane Ximines (53) runs around the edge during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Oshane Ximines (53) runs in pursuit during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. (Scott Boehm via AP)
Oshane Ximines (53) tackles Le'Veon Bell (26) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steven Ryan)
Oshane Ximines (53) flexes during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings Sunday October 6, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Kyler Fackrell is shown in action against the Chicago Bears during an NFL football game in Chicago. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast, File)
Kyler Fackrell (51) runs in pursuit during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Monday, Dec. 23, 2019 in Minneapolis. (Scott Boehm via AP)
Kyler Fackrell makes a tackle on Minnesota Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins in action during a NFL football game, Sunday, Nov. 25, 2018 in Minneapolis. (G. Newman Lowrance via AP)
Kyler Fackrell is seen during the first half of an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019, in Green Bay, Wis. (AP Photo/Morry Gash)
Russell Wilson is tackled by Kyler Fackrell (51) during the second half of an NFL football game, Thursday, Nov. 15, 2018, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
David Mayo (55) during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings Sunday October 6, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
David Mayo (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
David Mayo (55) runs in coverage during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
David Mayo (55) runs down field during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
David Mayo (55) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Blake Martinez (50) defends during an NFL football game against the Carolina Panthers, Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in Green Bay, Wis. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Blake Martinez (50) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Detroit Lions, Monday, Oct. 14, 2019 in Green Bay, Wis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Blake Martinez (50) in action during the first half of an NFL football game against the New York Giants, Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Steve Luciano)
Blake Martinez (50) in coverage during an NFL football game against the Minnesota Vikings, Monday, Dec. 23, 2019, in Minneapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Blake Martinez (50) defends during an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Thursday, Sept. 26, 2019, in Green Bay, Wis. (Ryan Kang via AP)
Ryan Connelly (57) during an NFL football preseason game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, August 28, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Ryan Connelly (57) during a preseason week 1 game against the New York Jets on Friday August 8, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Ryan Connelly (57) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. (Paul Abell via AP)
Ryan Connelly (57) intercepts a pass during the second half of an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (Perry Knotts via AP)
Ryan Connelly, right, tackles Case Keenum during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
Devante Downs (52) runs 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)
Devante Downs (52) runs in pursuit during an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Sunday, Nov. 24, 2019 in Chicago. (Scott Boehm via AP)
Devante Downs (52) sprints downfield on special teams coverage during an NFL game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Monday, Dec. 9, 2019, in Philadelphia. (Al Tielemans via AP)
Josiah Tauaefa (48) during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday December 22nd, 2019 in Landover, Md (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Josiah Tauaefa (48) defends against New England Patriots tight end Stephen Anderson (80) in the second half of an NFL preseason football game, Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)
LB Josiah Tauaefa
(Joe Robbins via AP)
Cam Brown (6) hits Ricky Brookins (33) to break up a pass play during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 20, 2018, in Bloomington, Ind. (AP Photo/Doug McSchooler)
Cam Brown (6) tackles Tyrrell Pigrome (3) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in State College, Pa., Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018. (AP Photo/Chris Knight)
Cam Brown runs the 40-yard dash during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Ben Liebenberg via AP)
Carter Coughlin (45) on field against Penn State during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
Carter Coughlin (45) plays against Purdue during the first half of an NCAA college football game in West Lafayette, Ind., Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Carter Coughlin (45) against South Dakota State during an NCAA college football game Thursday, Aug. 29, 2019, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Stacy Bengs)
T.J. Brunson (6) celebrates with Rashad Fenton (16) during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Vanderbilt, Saturday, Oct. 28, 2017, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
T.J. Brunson (6) celebrates an interception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Vanderbilt, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Sean Rayford)
Karan Higdon (22) is stopped by T.J. Brunson (6) during the second half of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game Monday, Jan. 1, 2018, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara)
Tae Crowder (30) comes up celebrating after C.J. Boone (10) is brought down during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Trestan Ebner (25) loses the ball on a pass play while being hit by Tae Crowder (30) which Georgia intercepted in the first half of the Sugar Bowl game in New Orleans, Jan. 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Bill Feig)
Isaiah Spiller (28) can't hang on to a pass as he is hit by Tae Crowder (30) in the second half of a game Nov. 23, 2019, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Dexter Lawrence has the most buzz on defense heading into training camp.
Schmeelk: Fact - There might be more accomplished players with a firm track record, such as James Bradberry, but Dexter Lawrence has the most upside on defense. His combination of size, strength and quickness is special and if he can harness it consistently, he has the chance to be an All-Pro caliber player. He has the potential to be a break out defender in stopping the run AND rushing the passer.
Salomone: Fact - Who doesn't want a piece of Sexy Dexy? The 6-foot-4, 342-pound former first-round pick has all the potential in the world to be a disruptive force in the NFC East for years to come. But as we know, "potential" can be the most dangerous word in sports. Now, it is up to assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham and defensive line coach Sean Spencer to tap that potential and make his rookie season just the tip of the iceberg.
Medow: Fiction - Dexter Lawrence is entering Year 2 in the NFL so he's a player to watch, but the pass rush still remains the biggest question. Who will emerge? Who will stand out during training camp? That's why there's a lot more buzz surrounding Kyler Fackrell, who is the only player on the roster to have a double-digit sack season (10.5 in 2018); Lorenzo Carter, who is entering his critical third season with the team; and Oshane Ximines, who showed some flashes as a rookie in 2019. I'd put all three of those players ahead of Lawrence on the buzz chart.
Safety Jabrill Peppers is the X-factor for the defense this season.
Schmeelk: Fiction - It's hard for me to select one player, but I can select one position … as in every cornerback not named James Bradberry. I don't know who is going to start opposite Bradberry or in the slot. DeAndre Baker, Sam Beal and Darnay Holmes are logical players to consider for those spots, but it wouldn't shock me if someone like Corey Ballentine, Grant Haley, Dravon Askew-Henry or Montre Hartage find their way into significant playing time. At least two of the young cornerbacks on the roster must play as starting-caliber players for the defense to take a step forward.
Salomone: Fact - The Giants didn't pick up their fifth-year option on Jabril Peppers for nothing. He is known for his versatility, and this coaching staff values that trait as much as anything else. It's just a matter of harnessing it and using it effectively. The addition of second-round safety Xavier McKinney should only help the duo flourish in the defensive backfield. Big plays hurt the Giants throughout last season, and the safeties are the last line of defense.
Medow: Fiction - I'm going to emphasize my response to the previous statement. With an extremely young secondary, the guys up front are going to have to do some heavy lifting to take pressure off the back end. That's why I think the X-factor is in the front seven, specifically a pass rusher. With Markus Golden's status still very much up in the air, the Giants need someone to make a statement in the pass rush department and Kyler Fackrell, Lorenzo Carter and Oshane Ximines are intriguing candidates. If one or two of those players can emerge, they could be a huge boost to the overall defense and give Patrick Graham opportunities to get a bit more creative. Someone within the front seven needs to provide opposing offenses a reason to be concerned or to consider a double-team.
View photos of Giants safety Jabrill Peppers.
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) celebrates during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) 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 free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) in coverage 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 S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) in coverage 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 defensive back Jabrill Peppers (21) waits for the snap 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 Media Day Photography Shoot.
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers smiles while listening to a question at a news conference during NFL football mini camp at the team's training facility Tuesday, June 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) returns a punt during an NFL football game against the New York Giants Sunday November 24, 2019 in Chicago (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants defensive back Jabrill Peppers (21) defends 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 safety Jabrill Peppers (21) drops into coverage during a 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 defensive back Jabrill Peppers (21) in action on defense 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 free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) in coverage 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)
S Jabrill Peppers (21) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) tackles Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) 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 free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) in coverage during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. New England won 35-14. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) looks to make a tackle during a Monday Night NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys Monday November 4, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten (82) is tackled by New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Dallas won 37-18. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers plays against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) defends during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots defeated the Giants, 35-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) before an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals Sunday October 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard (20) is tackled by New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) and free safety Antoine Bethea (41) during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Monday, Nov. 4, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) runs around the edge as Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle D.J. Humphries (74) during an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 20, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. Arizona won 27-21. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) in coverage 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 free safety Jabrill Peppers watches against the Detroit Lions during an NFL football game in Detroit, Sunday, Oct. 27, 2019. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) defends during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots defeated the Giants, 35-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) celebrates after the team scored a touchdown during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019, in Foxborough, Mass. The Patriots defeated the Giants, 35-14. (Ryan Kang via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Sunday September 22, 2019 in Tampa, Fla. ( Tom DiPace via AP)
A detail view of New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers' jersey during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2019 in Foxborough, Mass. New England won 35-14. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Minnesota Vikings running back Dalvin Cook is stripped of the ball for a fumble by New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during the second quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 6, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) returns an interception for a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold (14) is sacked by New York Giants' Markus Golden (44) as Jabrill Peppers (21) closes in during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 10, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) talks to his teammates following an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) and linebacker Markus Golden (44) take down Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Peyton Barber (25) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Sept. 22, 2019, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Jason Behnken)
Washington Redskins running back Wendell Smallwood (34) is tackled by New York Giants defensive back Grant Haley (34) and free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during the first half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
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 safety Jabrill Peppers (21) returns an interception for a touchdown during an NFL football game against the Washington Redskins Sunday September 29, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants defensive back Jabrill Peppers (21) looks on 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' Jabrill Peppers, right, intercepts a pass intended for Washington Redskins' Jeremy Sprinkle (87) during the second half of an NFL football game, Sunday, Sept. 29, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) defends 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 free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) looks on 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 safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during NFL training camp on Friday August 2, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
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 safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during NFL training camp on Friday August 2, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) returns a punt 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)
tNew York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys, Sunday September 8, 2019 in Arlington,Texas. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) during NFL training camp on Friday August 2, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) celebrates a defensive interception during NFL training camp on Thursday July 25, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants free safety Jabrill Peppers (21) carries the ball during a NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys in Arlington, Texas, Sunday, Sept. 8, 2019. (AP Photo/Michael Ainsworth)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants' Jabrill Peppers speaks during a news conference at the NFL football team's training camp in Thursday, July 25, 2019, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) practices during OTA practice on Monday May 20, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Evan Pinkus via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a week 9 game against the Dallas Cowboys at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) poses for a photo during a portrait shoot on Thursday, May 30, 2019 in East Rutherford, NJ. (Rob Tringali via AP)
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) walks to the field before a week 8 regular season game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on Sunday October 27th, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan
New York Giants Media Day Photography Shoot.
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers during week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills in East Rutherford, NJ
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a regular season week 4 game against the Washington Redskins at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants S Jabrill Peppers (21) during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
Fantennial concert and event at MetLife Stadium
S Jabrill Peppers (21) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants RB Saquon Barkley & S Jabrill Peppers during a regular season week 3 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James in Tampa, FL.
New York Giants vs New York Jets Pre-Season Game at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
a boogie wit da hoodie performs at New York Giants Fantennial Kickoff Party
New York Giants OTA #2 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
S Jabrill Peppers (21) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
S Jabrill Peppers (21) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants vs New York Jets Pre-Season Game at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants safety Jabrill Peppers (21) at preseason week 1 game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ
S Jabrill Peppers (21) at New York Giants Training Camp 2019 at Quest Diagnostics Training Center in East Rutherford, NJ
New York Giants Media Day Photography Shoot.
New York Giants Media Day Photography Shoot.
New York Giants Media Day Photography Shoot.
Dalvin Tomlinson will play the most snaps on the defensive line.
Schmeelk: Fiction - As a rookie, Dexter Lawrence played 106 more defensive snaps than Tomlinson, according to Pro Football Focus, and I would expect that to continue this year. It's Leonard Williams, however, that I expect to lead all defensive linemen in snaps. He is the most versatile as he can shift to defensive end in even fronts. I expect him to be the team's primary three-technique on passing downs. Both Williams and Lawrence will probably get more pass rushing snaps than Tomlinson, even though the Alabama product had a career-high 3.5 sacks last year.
Salomone: Fiction - He might not play the most snaps, but something tells me this coaching staff is very high on Tomlinson, both as a playmaker and leader. Tomlinson has stated every game since he came into the league in 2017 and has been one of the most consistent presences in the locker room. He is a Joe Judge guy. He just puts his head down and goes to work every day. He also reunites with Patrick Graham, who was his position coach as a rookie. Don't get caught up in snap counts with defensive linemen; Tomlinson will make an impact inside and outside of the box score.
Medow: Fiction - Last season, Dexter Lawrence played the most snaps (702) on the defensive line and Tomlinson (596) finished second. Let's not overlook the fact that Leonard Williams didn't have a full season with the Giants, so you have to take that into consideration when projecting the totals for 2020. B.J. Hill finished third with 487.
I think Lawrence is in line to play the most snaps again. When healthy, he proved to be a consistent disruptive player at Clemson and I'm sure Patrick Graham wants to tap into that more often than not this season. Lawrence can also be moved around on the line, so that increases his chances of staying on the field to stop the run and get after the quarterback. Williams consistently played between 800-900 snaps in his four full seasons with the Jets, so he'll push Lawrence in that department; but barring injury, Lawrence will edge him out.
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