The New York Giants finished the 2015 season with the worst defense in the NFL in terms of yards allowed, and general manager Jerry Reese wasted no time this offseason rebuilding New York's defense, acquiring some of the top defensive free agents on the open market.
The addition of players like defensive end Olivier Vernon, cornerback Janoris Jenkins and defensive tackle Damon Harrison should have a major impact on their defense and should put them in contention for the postseason, especially in a weak NFC East division. While the Giants landed some huge free agents this offseason, they have continued to make some small moves that should help improve their defense in 2016 and possibly solidify the future of their middle linebacker position.
The Giants signed free agent linebacker Keenan Robinson to bolster the middle linebacker position and will likely look to have competition this preseason, as they have reportedly just re-signed linebacker Jasper Brinkley on a one-year deal. Brinkley started nine games at middle linebacker last season for the Giants and recorded 67 combined tackles, four forced fumbles and a sack.
While Brinkley has familiarity within the Giants defense, Robinson brings youth to the position with experience, as he started eight games at inside linebacker for the Washington Redskins last season. The 26-year-old linebacker recorded 63 combined tackles and an interception last season, and he is strong addition to the Giants' linebacker core.
The Giants run a 4-3 base defense, and with weakside linebacker J.T. Thomas and strongside linebacker Devon Kennard returning next season, look for Robinson and Brinkley to battle it out in the preseason for the starting middle linebacker position. Competition for the starting position is a good thing for the Giants defense, as it brings depth to their roster and pushes players to work for their spot.
"I think this is the best fit for me," Robinson said after signing with the Giants. "They're a team that needed a middle linebacker. I think I can fill that role for the team. I'm very excited for the opportunity - and a chance to play the Eagles, the Cowboys and the Redskins six times throughout the year... it was very easy for me to be part of this organization, because I've seen their success in the past."
Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo is likely happy to have options at the linebacker position after multiple injuries to linebackers last season, and look for New York's defense to be much improved in 2016 as they look to contend in a weak NFC East division.
