Jerry Reese decided on a more economic option to replace Gibril Wilson by signing 11 year vet Sammy Knight, most recently of the Jags. The book on Knight at this point in his career is that he still plays very physical in the box, but lacks speed. I believe the Giants will play him at strong safety and look to Michael Johnson to take over full time at free safety (although both positions are interchangable in the Giants’ scheme). That would make James Butler and most likely a first day draft pick to fill out the depth at safety.
There are some good traits I like about Knight. He’s only missed two games in his entire career, is a strong tackler, and by all accounts is a very instinctive player. He’ll provide a nice veteran presence at the safety spot, similar to what Sam Madison brings to the corners. Plus he has ties with Giants’ secondary coach Peter Giunta while in Kansas City.
What are my concerns? Everything I read is that Knight has slowed, but that’s to be expected after 11 years in the NFL. Does he have Will Demps written all over him? Demps was a year removed from a knee injury and clashed with the coaching staff in his single season with the Giants. Knight on the otherhand has been relatively healthy and commended as a total team guy in all the reports I have read. Considering the small investment the Giants have made in Knight, I think this is a good risk to reward signing, especially when you consider the money being thrown at the other free agents at this position so far. Â
