2015 New York Giants - WK10 Cruz announces season ending calf surgery (2 Viewers)

[netnalp]

Craig Johnson named Running Backs Coach

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – The Giants today filled one of the openings on their coaching staff when they named Craig Johnson as their running backs coach.

Johnson, who is entering his 32nd year in coaching and 15th in the NFL, was the Minnesota Vikings’ quarterbacks coach the previous three seasons. He previously held the same position for 10 seasons with the Tennessee Titans, where he was also assistant head coach and running backs coach in 2010.

“This is a veteran coach that has coached some great players, like Steve McNair,” head coach Tom Coughlin said. “He’s been around a while and has experience as a quarterbacks coach, as a running backs coach and he’s been a coordinator in college.”

“I’m really excited about the opportunity to join such a great franchise,” Johnson said. “I’ve always admired coach Coughlin during the many years I’ve coached against him. I’ll come here to do my part to help the Giants get to and win a Super Bowl.”

Johnson is the second former quarterbacks coach from the NFC North to join the Giants’ staff since the end of their 2013 season. Last week, Ben McAdoo was named the offensive coordinator. He had been the quarterbacks coach in Green Bay.

“I think (Johnson) is an excellent teacher and his versatility is going to add a lot to our staff and, of course, to the running backs room,” Coughlin said. “He’ll be an excellent contributor for the coordinator with ideas. His interview was very impressive as we put him on the board. He really did an outstanding job with protections. And he’s talked long and hard about ball security. Pass protection and ball security are both very important to me.”

They are to Johnson as well.

“I know he’s a stickler for that and that’s good,” Johnson said. “He’s a coach that has a great attention to detail and I feel very comfortable being around a coach that stresses that.”

Johnson replaces Jerald Ingram, who was the team's running backs coach from 2004-13.

With the Vikings, Johnson presided over the development of Christian Ponder, Minnesota’s first round draft choice in 2011. Ponder started all 16 games and led the Vikings to the playoffs in 2012. In the recently-completed 2013 season, Ponder suffered a concussion and was limited to nine games. Matt Cassel led the team with 254 pass attempts, 15 more than Ponder. And Josh Freeman started one game, an Oct. 21 loss to the Giants in MetLife Stadium.

In Johnson’s first season as quarterbacks coach in 2011, Ponder threw for 1,853 yards and 13 TDs in 11 games.

During his long stint with the Titans, Johnson coached McNair, Vince Young and Kerry

Collins to Pro Bowl seasons. McNair was voted the NFL’s co-MVP in 2003 and was a Pro Bowler in 2000, ’03 and ’05. Young was the 2006 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. In 2008, Collins, the former Giant, was pressed into action after Young was injured in the season-opener and responded with one of his career-best seasons, leading the team to a 12-3 mark as the starter and returning to the Pro Bowl.

Johnson said he is excited about coaching running backs again.

“It’s a challenge, because it’s a different spot,” he said. “I broke into coaching as a running backs coach. I feel confident that I’ll be up to the task and I’ll take them where they want to go.

“The key is seeing what the players do best and also make sure I am up to date on the schemes. With Ben here we’re going to have a new style, a new terminology and a new look and I want to make sure I’m comfortable with that and I’m able to teach it correctly.”

Before joining the Titans staff, Johnson coached quarterbacks and running backs at the collegiate level from 1983-99. Johnson was a graduate assistant at Wyoming (1983) and Arkansas (1984). He also coached at Army (1985), Rutgers (1986-88), Virginia Military Institute (1989-91), Northwestern (1992-96) and Maryland (1997-99). Johnson coached the Maryland quarterbacks, and for the 1997 and ’98 seasons he served as offensive coordinator. During his five years at Northwestern, he helped the Wildcats win consecutive Big Ten titles in 1995-96 for the first time in team history.

 

[netnalp]

David Diehl announces his retirement.

 

[Smack Tripper]

Diehl hasn't been Diehl in a while but he'll be missed... some good years with him here

 

[netnalp]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

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Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

 

[Riversco]

2014 feels like a year where the Giants struggle and Coughlin gets fired midseason.

 

[netnalp]

2014 feels like a year where the Giants struggle and Coughlin gets fired midseason.

Good. Every year where it's felt like that they've won a SB.

 

[netnalp]

Sean Ryan will slide over to tight ends, a source with knowledge of the team's thinking told NJ.com.

Ryan had been the Giants’ quarterbacks coach the past two seasons. Prior to that, he spent two years as the wide receiver coach and three as an offensive quality control coach.

 

[Smack Tripper]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

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Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

 

[Bri]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

---------------------------------------------------------------

Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

Coughlin is only signed to one more year

 

[netnalp]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

---------------------------------------------------------------

Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

Coughlin is only signed to one more year

There's been talk of a possible extension for Coughlin and he's mentioned he wants to coach for several more years. It will be interesting to see what happens this offseason. The Mara's normally extend their head coach rather than let the contract expire and then re-sign them. Guess it doesn't matter too much if they extend Coughlin and he has a poor 2014, they can just fire him.

I think they have to see what the results for McAdoo's offense before they he's in the running for successor of the HC.

I think Gilbride was going to be fired and that Coughlin was going to fight for him. So Gilbride retired so he wouldn't put his friend in an awkward situation with the Mara's. What I wonder is, how "on board" Coughlin is with the coaching changes. Does he agree that all these changes need to be done? Or is Mara making changes and Coughlin is choosing to just go with it? Seems like if he wasn't on board with the changes that Coughlin would just leave or maybe he doesn't sign any extension offered.

 

[Bri]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

---------------------------------------------------------------

Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

Coughlin is only signed to one more year

There's been talk of a possible extension for Coughlin and he's mentioned he wants to coach for several more years. It will be interesting to see what happens this offseason. The Mara's normally extend their head coach rather than let the contract expire and then re-sign them. Guess it doesn't matter too much if they extend Coughlin and he has a poor 2014, they can just fire him.

I think they have to see what the results for McAdoo's offense before they he's in the running for successor of the HC.

I think Gilbride was going to be fired and that Coughlin was going to fight for him. So Gilbride retired so he wouldn't put his friend in an awkward situation with the Mara's. What I wonder is, how "on board" Coughlin is with the coaching changes. Does he agree that all these changes need to be done? Or is Mara making changes and Coughlin is choosing to just go with it? Seems like if he wasn't on board with the changes that Coughlin would just leave or maybe he doesn't sign any extension offered.

They have to let the old guy cool his heels. His team had a bad season and they fired many of his friends and ...this needs some time to see where he's at. I've heard over N over that he looked real upset at press conferences. Those statements by the team seemed to me (feel free to make your own guess) like his comments and then the owner saying let's add the company line to it in a grrr way for Tom. 3? days after he's going to fight for Gilbride's job, there's a statement that closes with "it was the right decision to make."

He's a coach so he's beaten down by every loss, every Eli bad throw, every missed tackle etc. It was all alot for anyone to take in.

I would not in anyway figure he signs an extension today. Once he's had time to work with his new staff, maybe not miss this guy or that guy so much anymore, then would probably be the best time to re-sign him. At times Mara's son came across too strong, he might need to cool his heels too.

Coughlin is blessed with a lot of coaching friends. I would assume he's going to chat with them as well before making a decision.

 

[netnalp]

Sean Ryan, who was the quarterbacks coach the previous two seasons, will now coach the wide receivers, the position he held in 2010-11. Ryan is entering his eighth season on the Giants’ staff.

Kevin M. Gilbride, the wide receivers coach in 2012-13, is the new tight ends coach. He has been on the staff since 2010.

Since the end of the with the 2013 season, three offensive coaches left the team: coordinator Kevin Gilbride, who retired, and tight ends coach Michael Pope and running backs coach Jerald Ingram were relieved of their duties.

Three coaches were added: McAdoo, who was the Green Bay Packers’ quarterbacks coach, replaced Gilbride; Craig Johnson, who had been coaching quarterbacks for the Minnesota Vikings and is the new running backs coach; and Langsdorf.

The only offensive coaches who will return in the same position are line coach Pat Flaherty (who has mentored the offensive line since Tom Coughlin arrived in 2004); his assistant, Lunda Wells; and offensive assistant Ryan Roeder.

 

[Smack Tripper]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

---------------------------------------------------------------

Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

Coughlin is only signed to one more year

To me, this means he's staying for at least another year beyond this season though. There's no real point in making/allowing these kinds of changes to happen in a vacuum of a lame duck season. The fact that changes/improvements are made means to me there is some future for him. The future may well be, the exit strategy. At least discussed and kept internally. Tom owes a lot of his success to the giants going back to the Parcells era and the Giants owe a lot of their success to Coughlin. A firing would be very ugly for all parties and Tom isn't getting another job at his age. They lived through the Torre divorce in New York and it just doesn't make sense to have that kind of fracture in New York.

Eli has 4 more high level years where you could conceivably see him winning a bowl, and maybe 2 more years of good physical play, that takes him to age 38 and I really do feel he could play til he's 40 based on his style and assuming that there isn't some genetic stenosis to the Mannings (based on Peytons neck and Cooper).

To me, if you were making a change, it should have happened, take this year as your growing pain and move forward. I think the more likely scenario, again barring implosion and assuming a ten win season, if Tom gets the 2-3 more years I mentioned and that could easily be 4. If Tom hangs them up in Eli's age 36 season, with McAdoo ideally established, thats nice continuity for your organizaitons biggest asset (Eli).

 

[monk]

Danny Langsdorf is expected to leave his position as Oregon State’s offensive coordinator after being offered a job as the New York Giants’ quarterbacks coach, a source told SI’s Lindsay Schnell. The 41-year-old Langsdorf, who has been with Oregon State since 2005, previously worked with new Giants offensive coordinator Ben McAdoo for the Saints in 2004.

Oregon State’s offense ranked 30th in the FBS this past season in points scored at 34.8 per game, and the passing attack was the third most-prolific in the nation at an average of 372.6 yards. Last year, the Beavers put up 5,610 total yards of offense, No. 2 on the school’s all-time list. QB Sean Mannion briefly flirted with the idea of turning pro after 2013 before opting to stay in Corvallis.

http://nfl.si.com/2014/01/24/danny-langsdorf-giants-quarterbacks-coach-oregon-state/

---------------------------------------------------------------

Says to me with the recent coaching changes, that they have every confidence in Eli and are building the offense around him.

I think this lends great creedance to the McAdoo as successor theory...this would seem to be a step back in status, if not financially, but I would imagine if McAdoo takes the head job in 2-3 years then he'll slide in as O coordinator.

Coughlin is only signed to one more year

To me, this means he's staying for at least another year beyond this season though. There's no real point in making/allowing these kinds of changes to happen in a vacuum of a lame duck season. The fact that changes/improvements are made means to me there is some future for him. The future may well be, the exit strategy. At least discussed and kept internally. Tom owes a lot of his success to the giants going back to the Parcells era and the Giants owe a lot of their success to Coughlin. A firing would be very ugly for all parties and Tom isn't getting another job at his age. They lived through the Torre divorce in New York and it just doesn't make sense to have that kind of fracture in New York.

Eli has 4 more high level years where you could conceivably see him winning a bowl, and maybe 2 more years of good physical play, that takes him to age 38 and I really do feel he could play til he's 40 based on his style and assuming that there isn't some genetic stenosis to the Mannings (based on Peytons neck and Cooper).

To me, if you were making a change, it should have happened, take this year as your growing pain and move forward. I think the more likely scenario, again barring implosion and assuming a ten win season, if Tom gets the 2-3 more years I mentioned and that could easily be 4. If Tom hangs them up in Eli's age 36 season, with McAdoo ideally established, thats nice continuity for your organizaitons biggest asset (Eli).

Now here's an Ironic twist if I ever heard one ...

Langsdorf also has a unique connection to the Giants organization, and he knows recently retired Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride well. Seven years ago, Langsdorf donated a kidney to Laurie Cavanaugh, Gilbride's sister. Cavanaugh is married to Oregon State offensive line coach Mike Cavanaugh

 

[Yenrub]

No surprise here ...Corey Webster & Brandon Meyers are no longer Giants. Both had their deals voided last week

 

[netnalp]

NYG
Mayock: If Taylor Lewan falls to @Giants at No. 12, I'd be all over him.

Mayock also still loves Zach Martin there. Compared him to Justin Pugh. That is, if the #Giants are interested in going OL with first-round

Mayock thinks that the #Giants will have a shot at one of the big three offensive tackles, but says don't count out wide receiver at No. 12

 

[Yenrub]

NYG

Mayock: If Taylor Lewan falls to @Giants at No. 12, I'd be all over him.

Mayock also still loves Zach Martin there. Compared him to Justin Pugh. That is, if the #Giants are interested in going OL with first-round

Mayock thinks that the #Giants will have a shot at one of the big three offensive tackles, but says don't count out wide receiver at No. 12

If they take Lewan do they kick Pugh down inside and keep Beatty at LT?

Which WR does he think the Giants would take at 12? I assume the big kid from Texas A&M since Eli tends to miss high

 

[netnalp]

NYG

Mayock: If Taylor Lewan falls to @Giants at No. 12, I'd be all over him.

Mayock also still loves Zach Martin there. Compared him to Justin Pugh. That is, if the #Giants are interested in going OL with first-round

Mayock thinks that the #Giants will have a shot at one of the big three offensive tackles, but says don't count out wide receiver at No. 12

If they take Lewan do they kick Pugh down inside and keep Beatty at LT?

Which WR does he think the Giants would take at 12? I assume the big kid from Texas A&M since Eli tends to miss high

"I think Taylor Lewan is a guy who could get there. If he got there I'd jump all over him," Mayock said. "If all three were gone, you could make a case for Zach Martin. He's very similar to Justin Pugh, who they took a year ago, but I think he's a better prospect. There, I'd also be wide open to looking at that wide receiver position and, again, looking at Marqise Lee (USC) and Mike Evans (Texas A&M). I think sitting at 12, they're going to get one of those three guys."

http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2014/02/2014_nfl_mock_draft_mike_mayock_says_giants_should_go_offensive_line_or_wide_receiver.html

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I'd like Evans, I think he's the really tall guy.

 

[netnalp]

@ConorTOrr: David Yankey (Stanford) viewed by some as the best G prospect in the draft, met with the #Giants yesterday. #nyg

@ConorTOrr: Jack Mewhort (6-6, 308) an OT projected in the second round (Ohio State) also good to keep an eye on. #nyg

@ConorTOrr: Joel Bitonio (Nevada) has meeting scheduled with #Giants tonight. Draws comparisons to Logan Mankins. Top T prospect who could project as G.

 

[netnalp]

Coughlin agrees to a one year contract extension.

Tuck and Terrell Thomas met with the Giants today to discuss deals.

 

[Koya]

WR? with all of our needs on the OL and on defense wtf would we go WR? Eli has shown that he can make good wrs very good and we have some weapons. Need a TE one way or another and need to solidify our running game far more than WR IMO.

As bad as our defense is, I'd prefer going O Line. Eli has what, five or so top years left? Still time to build the line for benefits now and later, improve the ability to move the ball and give Eli a bit more time for the deep ball then look defense with three out of four of the next picks

 

[netnalp]

Kimberley A. Martinþ@KMart_LI·10 mins
Colorado WR Paul Richardson said he informally met w NYJ & NYG yest & has formal mtgs scheduled w both b/t 2day & tom

Conor Orrþ@ConorTOrr·9 mins
Cyrus Kouandjio met with the #giants last night. Said he watched film with the team, drew up some plays. Got to know everyone

 

[netnalp]

Bart Hubbuch & #8207;@HubbuchNYP 15m
Jerry Reese also indicates that Jon Beason will become an unrestricted free agent, although the Giants want to keep him.

Bart Hubbuch & #8207;@HubbuchNYP 20m
Jerry Reese now confirming that Justin Tuck will become an unrestricted free agent.

Bart Hubbuch & #8207;@HubbuchNYP 9m
Jerry Reese said the Giants would be open to bringing back Ahmad Bradshaw.

Bart Hubbuch & #8207;@HubbuchNYP 19m
Jerry Reese on what he wants in an offensive-line draft pick: "A big, nasty guy who can keep our quarterback upright."

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Hopefully Beason will be back. I'd like Tuck back at the right price, just can't tie up a lot in a guy that finally had a healthy year after a few really unhealthy ones.

Bradshaw, I don't put much into that comment. Reese's line is that they discuss all free agents and their potential fit, like when he wouldn't rule out the possibility of Plaxico returning in 2011. I think they'd look for a more durable vet.

 

[netnalp]

- I’m told Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans is a real possibility for the New York Giants with the draft’s 12th selection if available. The team is expected to lose veteran wide out Hakeen Nicks to free agency and there’s not much production on the depth chart after Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle. I’m also told if one of the top offensive tackles (Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan) happen to slip to the 12th pick the Giants would look in that direction. Otherwise expect the team to initially look for guards in free agency.

http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9489

 

[Yenrub]

- I’m told Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans is a real possibility for the New York Giants with the draft’s 12th selection if available. The team is expected to lose veteran wide out Hakeen Nicks to free agency and there’s not much production on the depth chart after Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle. I’m also told if one of the top offensive tackles (Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan) happen to slip to the 12th pick the Giants would look in that direction. Otherwise expect the team to initially look for guards in free agency.

http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9489

Makes sense

I would love for one of the 3 tackles to be there at 12

A top CB should probably be a consideration

 

[Sweet Love]

- I’m told Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans is a real possibility for the New York Giants with the draft’s 12th selection if available. The team is expected to lose veteran wide out Hakeen Nicks to free agency and there’s not much production on the depth chart after Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle. I’m also told if one of the top offensive tackles (Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan) happen to slip to the 12th pick the Giants would look in that direction. Otherwise expect the team to initially look for guards in free agency.

http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9489

Not sure I think this is a good move. How many teams have production beyond the top 2 WRs? Five? Six? Plus, Cruz is in the top half of WR1s in the league, Randle is in the top half of WR2s in the league, and Jernigan will likely be one of the better WR3s in the league. At this point with their O-Line a mess, I don't see how they can afford the luxury of replacing Nicks.

 

[Yenrub]

- I’m told Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans is a real possibility for the New York Giants with the draft’s 12th selection if available. The team is expected to lose veteran wide out Hakeen Nicks to free agency and there’s not much production on the depth chart after Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle. I’m also told if one of the top offensive tackles (Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan) happen to slip to the 12th pick the Giants would look in that direction. Otherwise expect the team to initially look for guards in free agency.

http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9489

Not sure I think this is a good move. How many teams have production beyond the top 2 WRs? Five? Six? Plus, Cruz is in the top half of WR1s in the league, Randle is in the top half of WR2s in the league, and Jernigan will likely be one of the better WR3s in the league. At this point with their O-Line a mess, I don't see how they can afford the luxury of replacing Nicks.

I agree with you that offensive line is much a bigger priority and I would put CB above WR that being said if all 3 of the top tackles (Robinson, Matthews and Lewan) are off the board I can see them taking Evans.

 

[netnalp]

- I’m told Texas A&M receiver Mike Evans is a real possibility for the New York Giants with the draft’s 12th selection if available. The team is expected to lose veteran wide out Hakeen Nicks to free agency and there’s not much production on the depth chart after Victor Cruz and Rueben Randle. I’m also told if one of the top offensive tackles (Greg Robinson or Taylor Lewan) happen to slip to the 12th pick the Giants would look in that direction. Otherwise expect the team to initially look for guards in free agency.

http://www.draftinsider.net/blog/?p=9489

Not sure I think this is a good move. How many teams have production beyond the top 2 WRs? Five? Six? Plus, Cruz is in the top half of WR1s in the league, Randle is in the top half of WR2s in the league, and Jernigan will likely be one of the better WR3s in the league. At this point with their O-Line a mess, I don't see how they can afford the luxury of replacing Nicks.

I agree with you that offensive line is much a bigger priority and I would put CB above WR that being said if all 3 of the top tackles (Robinson, Matthews and Lewan) are off the board I can see them taking Evans.

Part of it might be that if the Giants can get a couple of guards in FA then the line mainly depends on if Beatty can play better and if Baas can stay healthy. Then they can grab depth in the 3-5 rounds with how deep this draft is for O-line.

Possibly the team might be concerned if Cruz can stay productive vs. double teams. There is concern with Randle, how he was a beast in OTA's and camp but it didn't translate in games. But then again with that line, how good can the passing attack be.

 

[netnalp]

Offensive Coordinator Ben McAdoo

Q: We talked to Tom last week and he said that you don’t describe yourself as a West Coast offense guy. How do you describe yourself and your offensive philosophies?
A: Well, West Coast… most teams in the league have West Coast principles built into their offense, and we’ll be one of them. We’re going to be an offense that has an identity, first and foremost. We’re going to be sound, smart and tough. We’re going to be committed to discipline and poise, and at the end of the day, we’re going to hang our hat on the fundamentals.

Q: Obviously you come from Green Bay and you worked under Mike McCarthy for a long time. How much do you think you’re going to take from him and how much do you think it’s maybe going to have your own twist on it?
A: Right now, what we’re doing is we’re upstairs, all of the offensive coaches and Coach Coughlin, we are sitting there and going through the nuts and bolts of things. Obviously we want to have a sound foundation. We feel we have that. At this point we’re starting to build what we’re going to look like. Every offensive system is its own living, breathing organism. At the end of the day, you have to make sure you’re flexible enough. It depends on what type of personnel you feed it to see what it’s going to look like. It’s a little early to know what we’re going to look like right now. The roster, we’re just in the beginning phases of what the roster is going to look like.

Q: How difficult is that? You could have any number of players at different positions coming in and out with free agency. Is it hard to wrap your mind around how you envision this offense when you don’t even know who the players are going to be?
A: I don’t think so. The offensive system here with the Giants has been in place for a long time. The offensive system that I’m coming from I’ve been in for 10 years. With those two systems being in place as we merge them together and build towards the future, we’ll be multiple enough to use any type of personnel.

Q: How much, if any, input does Eli have in this? How much do the rules limit that from being the case?
A: We’re going to put in a system, we’re going to install it. At this point in time, we’re going to abide by the letter of the law as far as the rules go. As we get going here on the 21st of April, we’re going to start to put the system in, work through the system. As Eli gets his hands on it and has a chance to get comfortable with it, we’ll make tweaks here and there. Really as the offseason and training camp goes on, every offensive system tailors towards the strength of the starting quarterback, what he does well and he doesn’t do well in the pass game. The runs are directly related to the runners. At the end of the day, your system is built around your personnel, not the other way around.

Q: How important is it to have some stability at quarterback? Do you see any similarities between Eli and Aaron Rodgers?
A: Working with Aaron… I haven’t worked with Eli, so that’s hard to say. But I do know this – they’re both Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks, they’re both highly motivated and highly competitive. I’m excited to be here and excited to work with Eli.

Q: What was your conversation like with Eli? I believe you spoke to him once, maybe twice, during the interview process. What did you come away from that thinking and what was your impression?
A: I met Eli a year or so ago, a year ago at the Pro Bowl. I think it was last year, yeah, we had him in the Pro Bowl out there. We spent a little time together out there. It’s not too rigorous of a routine, but I came away with a great impression of him. In talking to him on the phone and having a chance to sit down with him and just talk to him a little without going into too much detail… I’m very fond of him, obviously, watching him play. There have been some high profile games between the Packers and the Giants over the years. He’s played very well in those games.

Q: Obviously a big focus for Eli this season will be on whether he can improve on a pretty down year, a lot of interceptions. When you look at what he did last year do you see that as something that a new system can fix or did he fall into bad mechanics or bad habits or anything that needs tweaking?
A: First and foremost, we hang our hat on fundamentals. That’s going to be the focal point. That’s the first thing that we’re going to address. The second thing is we want to take care of the football. Taking care of the football is the biggest factor in winning and losing games. Fundamentals can help you there. At the same point in time, everybody on the offensive side of the ball needs to play better. With that being said, everyone comes in with a clean slate. This is going to be a new operation on offense. There are some new coaches in place, there are some coaches who have been here who have been in different spots, but at the end of the day everyone has a clean slate. That’s how we’re going to start and that’s important for the players to know. Also, winning in this league, the quarterback gets a lot of credit and gets too much credit. When you don’t play so well and you lose in this league, the quarterback gets a lot of blame and probably too much blame. But that is the nature of the beast.

Q: John Mara after the season said that this offense was broken. When you look at this offense, when you’re studying it for the last five or six weeks, was it a broken offense?
A: I know that the offense here in the past has had a ton of success. Last year they didn’t play as well as they would have liked. At the same point in time, it’s important for everyone to understand that we’re going to move forward, we’re going to learn from the past, and we’re going to work so that doesn’t happen again.

Q: How important is the screen game for you guys and rebuilding that? I’m sure you had an opportunity to see that here with the Giants, they admittedly had major struggles with that. It seemed to be a really big part of what you guys did when you were in Green Bay. How important is that to you as you rebuild this offense and to have that weapon?
A: We’re definitely going to spend time in the screen game. It’s something that will be a focal point and needs to be installed. We’ll have different types of screens, whether they’re sidewalk screens or half screens, so fourth and so on, just like everybody else in the league. At the end of the day, it comes down to fundamentals and guys getting enough repetitions where they’re productive.

Q: When you look at the roster as it is right now, how much do you think you need a running back that can come out of the backfield as a pass-catcher?
A: First and foremost, the runner needs to be able to protect the quarterback. He also needs to be able to run with the ball in his hands and do that well. You’d like to have a complete back. Obviously, it’s ideal to have a guy who’s functional out of the backfield catching the football, but at the end of the day, if they can’t protect the quarterback, they’re going to have a hard time getting on the field.

Q: How confident are you in all of this? Obviously this is the first time you’re going to be an offensive coordinator, the first time calling plays. That’s a lot to handle for a relatively young guy. What’s your confidence level like?
A: I’m confident. I’ve been groomed for this position. It’s something that we train our coaches and our quarterbacks for. We’ve done it in Green Bay and it’s something that I feel very confident about. I’m excited for the opportunity, but at the end of the day, play calling isn’t just about one guy pulling plays out of a hat. It’s the process that you go through during the week. A lot of it has to do with game planning and has to do with ranking plays in the plan. Everyone’s involved with it, not just coaches, not just the head coach but the players as well.

Q: What did you take from the whole interview process? You had a head coaching interview as well. What do you take from the whole process of the interviewing and your future goals in that regard?
A: Well I’ll say this – I’m very excited to be here. I think that being able to come to an organization that is the class of professional sports, to work in an organization with a future Hall of Fame head coach and a two-time Super Bowl-winning quarterback is very rare. You don’t get those types of opportunities. I come from a great place, a great organization with a head coach that I’m very fond of and players that I have a special relationship and a special bond with. To leave that, obviously your opportunity has to be something special. That’s what we’re looking at right now.

Q: You talked about blocking being the number one priority for a running back in your mind. What do you look for when you’re talking tight ends? That’s a position you’ve coached before and you seem to know very well. You don’t really have any guys under contract at that position here. What do you look for and what are the priorities about that position?
A: A tight end, that’s a difficult position, first of all, to evaluate. They’re asked to do a lot of things in this league, whether it’s run blocking from the backfield, run blocking at the line, out in space, a lot of things in pass protection and then running routes, whether they’re an in-line guy or they’re in the slot or in the back. They have a lot on their plate. To me, it was always the best position to coach and in this offense it’s the best position to play because you have to learn how to do everything and you have to learn how to do it well at a high level. At the end of the day, you have to find players who you can plug in and figure out what they do best and make sure on the field that they’re doing what they do best.

Q: I know you said it’s about the system first and then you assess personnel moving forward. From the guys you do have under contract, are there any that you’re really looking forward to getting going in your system and what you think their potential could be in your system?
A: Well, first things first, it’s not my system. It’s our system here and we’re building it right now. I’ve had a chance to meet different guys going through the building. It’ll be exciting. A lot of guys are in and out right now, so I haven’t had a chance to meet all of them. Victor (Cruz), we had over at the Pro Bowl and Eli, it’ll obviously be exciting to get going with those guys. Henry Hynoski, I’m familiar with, he played at Pitt and Southern Columbia High School. I’ve followed him since he was in high school really. A lot of other guys. Rueben Randle, I had a chance to meet yesterday, he’s excited to get going. Just to name a few that I had a chance to talk to. Chris Snee has been in the weight room a ton, I’ve run into him and Boothe and all of those guys, so it’s been great seeing them and I look forward to getting going.

Q: With so many question marks and injuries along the offensive line, is that something that’s a bit of a concern for you or do you see that as a bit of an opportunity to draft or bring in a free agent to help?
A: It definitely is an opportunity. When the door closes for someone, it opens for another. There are going to be plenty of guys lined up at the door to get a spot. We look forward to helping them improve and developing guys and seeing where we could take this thing.

 

[Faust]

Offseason Forecast: New York Giants

 

[netnalp]

Free agent ILB Jameel McClain will visit the Giants.

Baltimore Sun:

"McClain persevered through a difficult childhood in Philadelphia, where he was homeless at times. He went from an undrafted free agent to a starter alongside Ray Lewis on one of the game’s most vaunted defenses. Not the most physically gifted player, McClain became a key performer on defense and special teams. His career was in jeopardy after he suffered a spinal cord contusion late in the 2012 season, but McClain worked hard to get back on the field and would up starting the Ravens’ final 10 games last season...McClain had a salary cap hit of $4.4 million, also a high number for someone who essentially played on only running downs and was going to have to hold off Arthur Brown for the starting weak-side linebacker job."

BBI:

In six seasons with the Ravens, the 28-year old McClain has started 55 regular-season games. Fifty-four of those starts came within the last four seasons. He has experience playing both at inside and outside linebacker. McClain is 6’1” and 245 pounds and played his college football at Syracuse. He was considered a solid starter, special teams player, and leader in Baltimore but was set to make $3.2 million in the last year of his contract before the Ravens cut him.

 

[Yenrub]

Herzlich re-signs

http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2014/03/mark_herzlich_re-signs_with_giants.html

 

[Yenrub]

Giants re-sign

Stevie Brown - S

Trumaine McBride - CB

Peyton Hillis - RB

Curtis Painter - QB

 

[monk]

Time for Jerry Reese to hang em up.

This guy sux and was completely lucky to inherit a great oline and dline (both of which he has squandered) and a Franchise QB who hasn't improved since his 3rd season.

He's been blowing draft after draft and cant sign a freakin decent FA!!!! Adam Martini of Yahoo Sports has Will Beatty listed as 1 of Reeses top 5 draft picks since taking over ...What does that tell ya! (Tells me that Adam Martini and Reese SUX!)

Rashad Jennings? A 29 year old below avg journeymen and Hillis ... Ohhh This is much better than last year!!!!!!!!

O'Brien Schofield? What ?????? Who the FOC is O'Brien Schofield?

Oh and we lost Our best and Youngest D-Tackle who is just about to turn into a star !!! But other than that .....

 

[amicsta]

Time for Jerry Reese to hang em up.

This guy sux and was completely lucky to inherit a great oline and dline (both of which he has squandered) and a Franchise QB who hasn't improved since his 3rd season.

He's been blowing draft after draft and cant sign a freakin decent FA!!!! Adam Martini of Yahoo Sports has Will Beatty listed as 1 of Reeses top 5 draft picks since taking over ...What does that tell ya! (Tells me that Adam Martini and Reese SUX!)

Rashad Jennings? A 29 year old below avg journeymen and Hillis ... Ohhh This is much better than last year!!!!!!!!

O'Brien Schofield? What ?????? Who the FOC is O'Brien Schofield?

Oh and we lost Our best and Youngest D-Tackle who is just about to turn into a star !!! But other than that .....

I think this is a bit of an overreaction. Reese has done well to sign Schwartz, who they desperately needed. If they can't get an elite OT at the 12 pick in the draft, maybe they take an Aaron Donald from Pitt or another 2nd round DT to replace Joseph. The bottom line is that they didn't have the money to bring him back when they had so many other needs. It happens. Depending on the money for Jennings, that could be a pretty low risk insurance plan on what they currently have at RB. The Giants are clearly putting a priority on protecting Eli, as both Jennings and Hillis can pass block (and we know Wilson cannot). Looks like they may be bringing Tuck back, which was unexpected. I think that overall Reese is doing a fine job, and I would not be looking to rock the boat on him anytime soon.

 

[monk]

Time for Jerry Reese to hang em up.

This guy sux and was completely lucky to inherit a great oline and dline (both of which he has squandered) and a Franchise QB who hasn't improved since his 3rd season.

He's been blowing draft after draft and cant sign a freakin decent FA!!!! Adam Martini of Yahoo Sports has Will Beatty listed as 1 of Reeses top 5 draft picks since taking over ...What does that tell ya! (Tells me that Adam Martini and Reese SUX!)

Rashad Jennings? A 29 year old below avg journeymen and Hillis ... Ohhh This is much better than last year!!!!!!!!

O'Brien Schofield? What ?????? Who the FOC is O'Brien Schofield?

Oh and we lost Our best and Youngest D-Tackle who is just about to turn into a star !!! But other than that .....

I think this is a bit of an overreaction. Reese has done well to sign Schwartz, who they desperately needed. If they can't get an elite OT at the 12 pick in the draft, maybe they take an Aaron Donald from Pitt or another 2nd round DT to replace Joseph. The bottom line is that they didn't have the money to bring him back when they had so many other needs. It happens. Depending on the money for Jennings, that could be a pretty low risk insurance plan on what they currently have at RB. The Giants are clearly putting a priority on protecting Eli, as both Jennings and Hillis can pass block (and we know Wilson cannot). Looks like they may be bringing Tuck back, which was unexpected. I think that overall Reese is doing a fine job, and I would not be looking to rock the boat on him anytime soon.

I completely disagree ... He has completely neglected the Oline and LB positions to the point that they are both one of the worst groups in the NFL.

All of the focus has been on D'line and he hasn't even done a very good job with that (Inherited Strahan and Osi - Both Gone) Drafted a few DT that either busted or he let them go. Drafted a D-End in the 2nd last year that never saw the field and Pierre Paul is looking like a one year wonder.

Now you want him to spend another high draft pick on a DT ???

They signed this chump LB for $4 million a year that would have almost paid for Linval Joseph

 

[Yenrub]

While I think Monk may have gone a bit over the top

I really do have to question giving the Schofield guy 4 million per year

The guy was making half a million last season and he hasn’t done much (if anything) in the NFL

He seem like a guy that could/should have been had for much less money

Also I knew it was coming but losing Linval hurts and to be honest I don’t think that his contract (we don’t know the details) looks terribly expensive. An average of 6 million per year.

 

[Yenrub]

I must say that I am disappointed that we didn’t land Verner. All the talk was that the Giants were interested but they would be priced out.

He signs with the Bucs for 4 years 26.5 million …how damn much cheaper did the Giants expect the guy to be?

Grimes got 4 years 32

V. Davis got 4 years 39

Shields got 4 years 39

 

[Koya]

What was Jennings' deal? I like that signing quite a bit, assuming it was pretty cheap.

He's 29, but a very lightly used 29. As noted, he can pass protect and he really showed some good ability running the ball last year. I'd much prefer to save at RB with a tandem where Jennings gets 40-50% of the carries, possibly a shade more, Wilson gets 30% and the rest either divied up or going to whomever earns more touches.

 

[Yenrub]

What was Jennings' deal? I like that signing quite a bit, assuming it was pretty cheap.

He's 29, but a very lightly used 29. As noted, he can pass protect and he really showed some good ability running the ball last year. I'd much prefer to save at RB with a tandem where Jennings gets 40-50% of the carries, possibly a shade more, Wilson gets 30% and the rest either divied up or going to whomever earns more touches.

I don't think he has officially signed yet

 

[Yenrub]

Beason is back

 

[petenice15]

Maybe Monk can take a step back from the edge with this news:

The deal between free agent OLB O'Brien Schofield and the Giants is on hold due to medical concerns.

After putting Schofield through a physical, the Giants have questions about his knee. He tore his ACL at the Senior Bowl in 2010.

Source: Ian Rapoport on Twitter

 

[Koya]

Beason is back

Thank god. Was nervous with Denver sniffing around and was hoping this would happen once Ware signed with the Broncos

 

[Yenrub]

Here are the numbers on the Shwartz deal http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2014/03/geoff_schwartzs_contract_details_with_giants.html

4 years

16.8 million max

6.2 guaranteed

 

[Yenrub]

I have not seen anything about the Jennings deal yet

I wonder if Reese is going to go out and get another offensive lineman a center maybe

I don't think I have seen any TE signings yet ...do you guys think Pettigrew would be a good fit for the Giants? He seems like a good two way TE to me

 

[Yenrub]

Jennings numbers http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2014/03/rb_rashad_jennings_inks_four-year_14_million_deal_with_giants.html

4 years

14 million

3 million guaranteed

 

[Koya]

Jennings numbers http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2014/03/rb_rashad_jennings_inks_four-year_14_million_deal_with_giants.html

4 years

14 million

3 million guaranteed

Fits the mold of a team that has a history of good to very good production from ok talent at a lowish price. Again, he can pair nicely with Wilson if Wilson can man up and show something and may be able to handle more of a load if not.

 

[petenice15]

I have not seen anything about the Jennings deal yet

I wonder if Reese is going to go out and get another offensive lineman a center maybe

I don't think I have seen any TE signings yet ...do you guys think Pettigrew would be a good fit for the Giants? He seems like a good two way TE to me

He was a work out warrior at the combine which lead him to get drafted so high. His problem is he can't catch the ball. Personally I'll pass considering his limitations and the money he'll be asking for. I rather wait it out to pick up a cheap veteran and combine that with Adrien Robinson and a draft pick. Ebron is going to high for me, but there are quite a few starting caliber TEs in the draft.

 

[Koya]

I have not seen anything about the Jennings deal yet

I wonder if Reese is going to go out and get another offensive lineman a center maybe

I don't think I have seen any TE signings yet ...do you guys think Pettigrew would be a good fit for the Giants? He seems like a good two way TE to me

He was a work out warrior at the combine which lead him to get drafted so high. His problem is he can't catch the ball. Personally I'll pass considering his limitations and the money he'll be asking for. I rather wait it out to pick up a cheap veteran and combine that with Adrien Robinson and a draft pick. Ebron is going to high for me, but there are quite a few starting caliber TEs in the draft.

To be honest, no one can really catch Eli's passes to a back since they see thrown at the feet

 

[netnalp]

Time for Jerry Reese to hang em up.

This guy sux and was completely lucky to inherit a great oline and dline (both of which he has squandered) and a Franchise QB who hasn't improved since his 3rd season.

He's been blowing draft after draft and cant sign a freakin decent FA!!!! Adam Martini of Yahoo Sports has Will Beatty listed as 1 of Reeses top 5 draft picks since taking over ...What does that tell ya! (Tells me that Adam Martini and Reese SUX!)

Rashad Jennings? A 29 year old below avg journeymen and Hillis ... Ohhh This is much better than last year!!!!!!!!

O'Brien Schofield? What ?????? Who the FOC is O'Brien Schofield?

Oh and we lost Our best and Youngest D-Tackle who is just about to turn into a star !!! But other than that .....

I think this is a bit of an overreaction. Reese has done well to sign Schwartz, who they desperately needed. If they can't get an elite OT at the 12 pick in the draft, maybe they take an Aaron Donald from Pitt or another 2nd round DT to replace Joseph. The bottom line is that they didn't have the money to bring him back when they had so many other needs. It happens. Depending on the money for Jennings, that could be a pretty low risk insurance plan on what they currently have at RB. The Giants are clearly putting a priority on protecting Eli, as both Jennings and Hillis can pass block (and we know Wilson cannot). Looks like they may be bringing Tuck back, which was unexpected. I think that overall Reese is doing a fine job, and I would not be looking to rock the boat on him anytime soon.

I completely disagree ... He has completely neglected the Oline and LB positions to the point that they are both one of the worst groups in the NFL.

All of the focus has been on D'line and he hasn't even done a very good job with that (Inherited Strahan and Osi - Both Gone) Drafted a few DT that either busted or he let them go. Drafted a D-End in the 2nd last year that never saw the field and Pierre Paul is looking like a one year wonder.

Now you want him to spend another high draft pick on a DT ???

They signed this chump LB for $4 million a year that would have almost paid for Linval Joseph

I like Joseph but the team had so many holes to fill that they couldn't pay a huge sum for a 2 down DT. Joseph is a good run stopper but doesn't offer much in the way of a pass rush. With Hankins showing promise, Linval was expendable. Short term Patterson played well last year, the might be able to sign him cheaply. It is disappointing that they lost a good payer that was so young but that's the way the NFL is these days.