New York Giants: Predicting 5 starters who won’t be around in 2018

OLB Jonathan Casillas

At some point, the Giants are going to have to address their linebacking unit. For years now, they’ve been settling on average talent, and it hasn’t exactly gotten the job done. Jonathan Casillas is no exception to that generalization.

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In fact, he’s been really bad this year despite what some fans will tell you. I know he’s a prominent piece of the defense, and a team captain. However, at some point, you have to be honest with yourself and understand that high character doesn’t mask waning talent.

Let Pro Football Focus spell it out for you. When Casillas’ season came to an end as a result of neck and wrist injuries, he was ranked 83rd among 89 qualified linebackers. His grade against the run was the worst of any linebacker who had played significant snaps. Put simply, Casillas is no longer a dependable option.

With his contract set to expire, it’s time for the Giants to let him take his talents elsewhere. He’s quietly become a detriment to this defense — New York sorely needs an upgrade. The first step is allowing Casillas to leave, opening the door for another younger, more capable player to fill the role.

Casillas has been a solid option for the Giants over the last three seasons. All good things (if that’s what you want to call it) must come to an end, though.