The New York Giants start the 2016 league year as one of the top franchises in the league in terms of salary cap space, and the Giants front office is wasting no time in filling holes on their roster, especially on the defensive side of the ball.
Giants general manager Jerry Reese likely knows that the pressure is on him with Tom Coughlin no longer the coach in New York, but he is doing his part early this offseason, as the team will reportedly retain defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul on a one-year deal. The Giants are clearly looking to bolster their defense this offseason, as they gave up the most yards in the league last season.
New York's defense needs help at all three levels but has reportedly landed one of the top free agents on the market in cornerback Janoris Jenkins. The Rams cornerback is considered dynamic playmaker in the secondary and was expected to land large contract after four strong seasons in St. Louis. Jenkins' contract will reportedly pay more than $12 million per season.
The former second round pick recorded 64 combined tackles, three interceptions and a forced fumble while defending 15 passes during the 2015 season, and he should make a strong combination with Giants corner Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie in New York's secondary. The move likely means that former first round pick and free agent cornerback Prince Amukamara is on his way out, but Reese and the Giants front office likely felt that Jenkins was a more consistent corner, especially given Amukamara's injuries the past two seasons.
While Jenkins may be the biggest star that the Giants are expected to land this offseason, it likely won't be the only big addition that New York's front office makes in free agency. The Giants reportedly have serious interest in Jets defensive tackle Damon Harrison and are looking to bolster their defensive line after a weak pass rush in 2015. The Giants are also reportedly interested in Dolphins defensive end Olivier Vernon, and Miami has just withdrawn the transition player designation, making him a potential target free agent pass rusher to land in New York.
The Giants front office has already made a significant push to help their secondary this offseason and are now turning their focus to their pass rush and defensive line as they look to continue to build their defense.
