Combine's over, free agency starts in a few days... Time to at least drop in here and say howdy to everyone.
I was not in Indy, but the Giants' braintrust was. Tom Coughlin said he was disappointed in Tiki Barber's most recent pot shots at his last coach -- I have to agree with new GM Jerry Reese, who pointed out on Saturday that "we're talking about a retired player" -- and Reese said he'll leave no stone unturned in free agency or a possible trade.
That talk centered around finding a veteran RB to complement Brandon Jacobs, whom Reese stated would carry the majority of the load this season. Packers RB Ahman Green should be available once the bidding begins on Friday; so might Eagles RB Correll Buckhalter, who would certainly provide a contrast to Jacobs.
A few RBs under contract are being dangled, notably the Bills' Willis McGahee and the Bears' Thomas Jones. Reese said his desire is to hang onto his first-day draft picks, so that makes a trade for a proven back far less likely.
There are other areas of need for the Giants heading into Friday. One of them probably won't be at center since the Giants are close to re-signing Shaun O'Hara. But they do need at least one veteran LB and possibly a CB, though I don't see them overspending this off-season with Sam Madison and R.W. McQuarters still able to give the Giants something. I'm betting they'll draft first-day guys at both those positions too.
Comments (2)
The attention to Tiki'S retirement can bring about opportunity. If Jacobs can stay low when he needs to and hold the ball high and tight he is going scare defenses. Thomas Jones and most other backs I don't see as contrasting. Am I the only one that looks at Tatum Bell as a drop in for Tiki with greater acceleration?
If Jacobs can hold onto the ball he will be able to carry the load as the top tailback. Bell or Buckhalter would be a cheap addition as a backup rather than losing a draft pick in a trade. But, if Marshawn Lynch falls to 20, the Giants have to take him.