Despite drafting and signing several players to bolster the linebacker corps, the New York Giants still seemed thin as they enter training camp. This makes the signing of former Philadelphia Eagle Connor Barwin, that much more exciting.
The outside linebacker will earn a max $5 million over two-years. With the Los Angeles Rams in 2017, Barwin recorded 34 tackles and five sacks in 14 games (13 started). Seeing the veteran start that many games is extremely encouring for a Giants team in search of leadership and experience on the defensive side of the ball.
Making the transition to the 3-4 defense was an essential movement that will hopefully pay dividends for a team that ranked 26th in stopping run and in the bottom five in the league in overall defense (last season).
What does Barwin bring to the New York Giants:
As stated above, Barwin brings immense experience to a locker room featuring Olivier Vernon who’s moving to OLB, a rookie in Lorenzo Carter, and young players such as Avery Moss and Romeo Okwara.
Barwin is only four-years removed from a 14.5 sacks season, but will turn 32 during the 2018 season. His physical abilities might be degrading, but he was signed to impart his knowledge of success and veteran presence in the locker room. He will offer a stellar depth option and will likely earn a solid amount of playing time early on in the coming season.