The New York Giants have always prided themselves on their ability to control the line of scrimmage, especially on the defensive side of the ball. That's why they like stacking their defensive line with premiere talent and it's why they like generating pressure with their front four. That strategy helped them dethrone the undefeated New England Patriots in 2007 and again in Super Bowl XLVI.
That strategy is also why defensive end Jason Pierre-Paul's looming free agency is so interesting. JPP played stout run defense while recording 12.5 sacks this past season. At 26, Pierre-Paul has the combination of youth and talent that franchises like to lock up long-term. But word on the street is that the former South Florida standout is looking for a max deal, and the Giants may not be willing to pay that high of a price.
As a result, New York could look to the 2015 NFL draft for an edge-rushing replacement.
"There is plenty of blame to go around in Gotham after the Giants struggled in 2014 despite an overhaul of the roster last offseason," Rob Rang of CBS Sports wrote in his NFL Mock Draft. "GM Jerry Reese has won before gambling on the upside of talented pass rushers. Given the exciting talent at the position this year he could roll the dice again, especially if free agent Jason Pierre-Paul leaves. Playing behind 2014 second-round pick Kony Ealy and '13 Co-Defensive Player of the Year Michael Sam, [Shane] Ray did not emerge as a starter for the Tigers until the 2014 season, but he may have the most explosive first step in the country. He led the SEC with 14 ½ sacks this season."
Ray is a supremely talented pass-rusher, but he'll have to bulk up to survive at the next level. Of course, the Giants could rotate him between defensive end and outside linebacker to lessen the physical burden. But 240 pounds is still on the light side, regardless. Other than that, Ray's above-average speed and quickness and his ability to disrupt opposing backfields could be a welcomed addition in New York.
The Giants hold the ninth overall pick in the draft.
