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In the Spring, the New York Giants went out and spent some serious coin to strengthen the defensive line. They signed DT Damon “Snacks” Harrison (five-year deal worth $46.5 million with $24 million guaranteed) and DE Olivier Vernon (five years and $85 million with $52.5 million guaranteed ) In addition they signed Jason Pierre Paul ( 1 year contract for 10.5 million with 8.5 million guaranteed) Now these were all significant moves but there were no draft picks or other free agents of note signed to address the reserve depth at the defensive end position. That’s why DE Owa Odighizuwa‘s play suddenly becomes that much more important this season.
The Giants finished 30th in the NFL with 23 sacks last season. With the off season additions those numbers should improve, but to be consistently successful putting pressure on the quarterback the Giants will need a third pass rusher to make an impact. DE Odighizuwa was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2015 draft but missed 12 games last season with hamstring and foot injuries so his rookie season was basically a wash. He’s very well built, ( 6’3″, 270lbs ) and possesses the explosive pass rush ability, as well as the power and strength to be a good run defender. The opportunity to step up and make an impact is there because there isn’t another player currently on the training camp roster that is expected to play that role. Whether or not he seizes the opportunity has yet to be determined.
Dan Evans is a contributing writer to PureSportsNY.com Follow him on Twitter @DanEvansPSNY