After the 2019 season concluded, the New York Giants were in desperate need of bolstering at multiple positions. Management knew that they could not proceed forward with the roster’s state, and free agents had to be a priority. Of course, the hiring of new head coach Joe Judge was the top headline, and he has done a good job putting the team in a positive direction, despite starting the year 0-5.
The blame ultimately lands on youth, inexperience, and questionable schematics. Coordinator Jason Garrett has done a poor job activating his offensive weapons, and that is not because of a lack of talent. Golden Tate is best used in space and Evan Engram in the seam, but Garrett has shied away from both of those factors.
Nonetheless, it is not a surprise that the Giants’ free agents have been there saving grace up to this point.
Three players for the New York Giants who have stood out:
1.) James Bradberry
When the Giants elected to sign James Bradberry over Byron Jones, most were confused at the decision. Through five weeks, it seems as if they made a fantastic choice.
The 27-year-old corner has been elite for the Giants, ranking second among all CBs in the league in overall grade. He currently has an 85.7 grade on defense, with an 87.3 coverage grade. He’s not the best in run defense, and his tackling is spotty at times, but overall he has locked down opposing WR1s all season long.
So far, he has allowed a 53.6 completion percentage, giving up 15 catches for 180 yards and two touchdowns. To put that into perspective, Janoris Jenkins allowed a 190 yard, three-touchdown performance to Mike Evans last year in week three. That should give you an idea of just how good Bradberry looks what we should expect from him moving forward.