New York Giants mailbag: CB2 still a problem, linebackers thin, offensive line still in flux

Roster cut-down day for the New York Giants offered many surprises, and waiver claim Sunday mimicked its intensity. From the cutting of Ryan Connelly to the claiming of several unknown players, Giants fans were confused at some of the moves made by management.

On Sunday, they elected to cut wide receiver Corey Coleman, who looked sharp during camp but simply couldn’t offer enough to make the active roster. New head coach Joe Judge is implementing a different style for his team, one that is hyper-focused on specific roles for individual players.

Judge’s goal is to field a team of the best players possible, and each one has a very defined job and assignment on any given play. If you are not multifaceted and able to adapt and fit the needs of the team, you are expendable. That mantra might be seen as outdated or harsh, but winning in the NFL is a science and not a process of fate.

Let’s take a look at our New York Giants mailbag from the fans:

Big Blue in the Bronx:

The Giants made an interesting decision when they released Connelly, who was ultimately signed by the Minnesota Vikings. He could end up being a productive player, but the Giants didn’t feel as though he offered them any immediate value.

Coming off a serious ACL tear last year, it was clear that he did not look as sharp as he once was during his rookie campaign. With that being said, they elected to give the roster spot to more high upside players, such as Cam Brown, and notably Devante Downs.

Ironically, Downs was a former Viking draft pick but has since entered camp with the Giants with a heightened sense of confidence. He is expected to be the week one starter alongside Blake Martinez. There’s not enough of a sample size to justify Downs as an everyday player, but he has the tangible traits to be one.

At 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, Downs is a massive linebacker that can fill holes in the run game. While he is untested in coverage, the Giants are willing to run the risk in 2020 as they continue their rebuild efforts.

I wouldn’t rule out TJ Brunson and Tae Crowder earning reps as cover linebackers. I estimate they will utilize their players in situational roles.

Alex Mattina:

Several good questions regarding the offense from Alex Mattina. The offensive line is a work in progress, and I would be hesitant to coin them as a serviceable unit. We haven’t seen them together once in the regular season, and the only holdovers are Kevin Zeitler and Will Hernandez.

The Giants are inserting Nick Gates as their new center, who was formally an undrafted free agent and drafted both Andrew Thomas and Matt Peart to supplement the tackle spots for the future hopefully.

Nonetheless, Peart is a developmental peace, and Thomas will likely start at one of the tackle spots immediately. They also signed who incumbent Cam Fleming, who’s average at best but trusted by Judge.

I would say they are looking promising but will inevitably suffer chemistry problems in the earlier portions of the season. I believe that it is very possible Peart ends up starting along-side Thomas by week eight. If the Giants are struggling and their record doesn’t show much promise, building their youth and giving them experience should be a priority.

As for utilizing two tight ends, I think that will be a frequent occurrence for offensive coordinator Jason Garrett. Having options like Evan Engram, Kaden Smith, and Levine Toilolo, not activating 12 personnel, would be malpractice.

The Hub:

If you’ve been a Giants fan the past few years, you’ve been in a state of depression and sadness. I would be remiss not to mention frustrated and angry at some of the decisions they’ve made. I feel you, Hub, but better days are ahead, I believe.

Mr. Virgo: