New York Giants: Players to target in free agency

Sep 25, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; A New York Giants player

With the season over for the New York Giants, it’s time to look ahead to free agency. Last year, the Giants were uncharacteristically frivolous in free agency, as the team signed a cast of new players. General manager Jerry Reese has insisted that the Giants will not be spending as much this offseason, but that doesn’t mean Big Blue won’t try to sign some talented players. However, since the desire is to be frugal, that means the Giants probably won’t be in the hunt for players like Ndamukong Suh or Justin Houston.

Here are some players that could be on the Giants’ radar come free agency.

5. Brian Orakpo, OLB

Aug 7, 2014; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins outside linebacker Brian Orakpo (98) celebrates after sacking New England Patriots quarterback

(not pictured) in the first quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The Redskins applied the franchise tag to Orakpo last offseason, but the sack artist missed the majority of the season due to a torn pectoral muscle. Washington probably won’t be bringing Orakpo back, especially with the way the younger, more reliable Ryan Kerrigan (13.5 sacks, five forced fumbles) played in 2014.

Signing Orakpo would fill an immediate need for the Giants. When was the last time the Giants had a legitimate outside linebacker? While Orakpo has played the majority of his snaps in a 3-4, the Giants could  possibly switch to a 3-4. Rookie Devon Kennard displayed his talents late in the year, and Jameel McClain and Jon Beason are both better suited at inside linebacker.

A group consisting of Kennard, McClain, Beason and Orakpo would give the Giants their best linebacking corps since 2007, which really isn’t saying much.

However, as good as this might sound on paper, there’s a good chance it won’t happen.

Although Orakpo is 29, he can still play at a high level and he will likely want a decently big contract. If the Giants signed Orakpo, the rest of the offseason would be on a crutch, since they wouldn’t have much money to fill other needs. Perhaps playing against his former team twice a year would be enough to lure “O-sack-po” to the Giants.

Next: Getting help on the line