New York Giants: offseason priorities

After suffering through their worst defensive season since 1966, they need to rebuild that unit. Assuming they don't bring back Antonio Pierce, a middle linebacker will be their biggest priority. They also need a safety, not knowing if Kenny Phillips (knee) will ever be the same. They could also use a pass-rushing defensive tackle, especially if Barry Cofield turns out to be a free agent. On the offensive side, the obvious need is an interior offensive lineman, probably a guard.



With a mountain of stadium debt, the Giants aren't going to suddenly become big spenders if there's no salary cap. They're not huge believers in buying a championship through free agency anyway. In fact, no CBA would be good news for them since it would keep several key players from becoming unrestricted free agents, and give them a little more leverage in signing others (like Mathias Kiwanuka) long term.

The bad news? There'll be fewer targets with no new CBA. DeMeco Ryans could be the perfect replacement at middle linebacker, but without a deal he's only a restricted free agent.


(Restricted free agents who, in a capped year, would've been unrestricted):

Kevin Boothe
S C.C. Brown
DT Barry Cofield
CB Kevin Dockery
WR Derek Hagan
WR Domenik Hixon
WR Sinorice Moss
LB Gerris Wilkinson


With no salary cap, there are no cap ramifications to unloading a big contract, which means the Giants would be free to cut ties with the likes of DT Rocky Bernard (three years, $9.1 million left, but none of it guaranteed) with no future penalities. They could also be tempted to do the same with injury-prone RB Brandon Jacobs (three years, $13.2 million left). With most of his $3.65 million salary in 2010 guaranteed, though, they'll most likely keep him.