The Giants ended the preseason with what looked to be a pretty good effort. Now we get to the real stuff. First cutdown day, then the opener. The Giants roster is just about set, and here’s where I think the G-Men are:
- It’s quite obivous RB Danny Ware will make this team. He’s younger, cheaper, and the Giants will control him as far as free agency for a few years. Rueben Droughns was a real asset last year on specials and as a fill in, never complaining. But it’s time to move forward. And, damn, do the Giants find good RBs everywhere!!!
- Mario Manningham already had the team made no matter what, but it was good to see him contributing the last two weeks. He’s smooth and really has upside, which was part of his draft profile. He’ll be the sixth WR this season and might not even play, but look for him to be a real focal point come next training camp. Six roster spots ends any chance of Brandon London landing on the 53.
- David Carr nailed down the backup QB spot. I still feel a bit uneasy about him, but last night he played well and earned the spot. The question now is does rookie Andre Woodson get the number three spot?
- Does vet Sammy Knight beat out the younger Stuart Schweigert? Could the quick development of Kenny Phillips spell the end for Knight, who was signed as insurance at the safety position back in March when Gibril left?
- Will fan favorite R.W. McQuarters make the team? I think the Giants will keep at least five corners, so it could be between Sam Madison and McQuarters. “Q” can play CB, safety, and specials. Madison proved himself as a valuable mentor last year. Real tough choice. I’d go with Sam.
- The starters at linebacker are set, but what will the backups look like? Chase Blackburn and rookie Bryan Kehl are in. Does Zac DeOssie make the cut? He long snapping abiltity/coverage is second to none. His play at linebacker is another story. Tank Daniels is a valuable special teams player too. Is that enough win a spot? Will the Giants IR Johnathan Goff, which will directly affect Daniels and DeOssie? I think the Giants will IR him (let him get 100%), and look for another LB on the waiver wire. I am quite concerned with the depth here, now that Clark and Wilkinson are starters. If Kehl can contribute early, I’ll feel much better.
- Finally, do the Giants feel they are ready to go with the defensive linemen they have on the current roster, or will they possibly make a minor trade for depth?
Seven days ’till kickoff…
