The New York Giants seem to be quite confident in their starting offensive line, but the unit’s depth lacks significant talent. While reserve players aren’t supposed to be starting-level talents, the Giants currently have options on the roster that should never even sniff the field given the opportunity.
For example, with Shane Lemieux sitting last week and Kyle Murphy being knocked out of the contest and being placed on season-ending injury reserve, the team featured former Detroit Lions guard Kenny Wiggins for the majority of the contest. Wiggins was an absolute disaster, showcasing a lack of fundamental understanding and allowing immediate pressure on the quarterback. Committing to him as a depth piece would be a massive mistake, but the Giants have indicated they will seek out offensive line support in the coming weeks.
Dave Gettleman, asked if #Giants planned to upgrade at guard when cutting Kevin Zeitler, says his gut tells him there will be a lot more player movement, possibly as soon as after 2nd preseason game. NYG don’t have a lot of $, but DG says: “We’re gonna do what we have to do.” pic.twitter.com/g8gNpKuy1o
— Pat Leonard (@PLeonardNYDN) August 17, 2021
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, general manager Dave Gettleman indicated they would be watching closely as other teams cut their rosters down to 53 men and roster bubble OL hit the open market.
Every year, a few quality pieces are cut loose, especially on teams that have more numbers at specific spots. The Giants desperately need more help in the interior of their line, and Gettleman indicated after the second preseason game and cuts begin to commence, options will present themselves.
However, the team would be happy to see some of their depth perform better against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday evening.
The Giants also acquired two new players to compete for the remainder of training camp and preseason. The team traded a sixth-round pick for defensive back Keion Crossen, who represents a special-teams ace and a player Joe Judge can rely on as a punt gunner. Despite the obvious need for talent in the trenches, Crossen serves a specific purpose. A sixth-round pick for a player who will make an immediate impact on special teams is nothing to be concerned about.
In addition, the Giants traded cornerback Isaac Yiadom to the Green Bay Packers in exchange for former second-round pick Josh Jackson. Jackson, who has failed to live up to his potential, was a stud at Iowa, known as an interception maestro.
While he’s been buried on the depth chart with Green Bay, Giants defensive coordinator Patrick Graham is known for his ability to extract talent. Graham also coached on the Green Bay defense when Jackson was drafted back in 2018. Clearly, there is familiarity between the two which could have played a part in the move. Jackson is a bit younger and more amendable than Yiadom, who saw his role diminish after the Giants signed Adoree Jackson on a big contract this free agency.