Giant Needs For 2007

For the most part, the Giants had an awful season. Granted, they made the playoffs, but they failed to defend their division title and finished a mediocre 8-8. One of the major reasons for such mediocrity was a sub-par performance from the defense, which was held in very high regard coming into the season. While many of the problems associated with the defense (which finished in an absolute tailspin and ended the season ranked 25th in the NFL) could be attributed to injury, Defensive Coordinator Tim Lewis took the blame and was dismissed. Rightfully so, as Lewis frequently lacked answers for most every obstacle put in his way.

Similarly, Offensive Coordinator John Hufnagel was given his walking papers, after failing to lead the offense to an achievement level that approached pre-season expectations. Like in the case of the defense, injuries had much to do with the lack of success. After all, LT Luke Petitgout and WR Amani Toomer were lost to season ending injuries, both of which changed the face of the offense dramatically.

There are now glaring holes in the side of the Giants ship. First, the Giants need to address the Defensive Coordinator position and should hire Dom Capers. Capers has an excellent track record and an existing rapport with Tom Coughlin, who he served as Defensive Coordinator during their days in Jacksonville. In 2006, Capers served as Miami's D-Coordinator and led the unit to the 4th best ranking the in league.

On the offensive side of the ball, Coughlin is loyal and may hand the duties of calling the plays over to Kevin Gilbride, who took over for Hufnagel after he was relieved of his duties. The results were very positive, albeit in limited exposure. During the 2 games with Gilbride at the helm, the Giants averaged 330 yards per game and ran the ball with impressive effectiveness. One option that may be discussed is Mike Martz, who's an offensive guru.

The roster is sure to see some significant turnover during the off-season. Possibly gone are LB Carlos Emmons, WR Tim Carter, TE Visanthe Shiancoe, OT Bob Whitfield, CB Frank Walker, KR Chad Morton and disappointment Will Demps, who simply can't make an open field tackle. Tiki Barber is gone and the Giants will need to address their running back situation. At the least, they'll need to draft a back to compliment Brandon Jacobs. At best, they'll make an offer to restricted free agent Michael Turner of the Chargers, who's young and a beast. He will, however, command big-time money.

The Giants clearly need a 3rd WR, presuming Amani Toomer returns to full strength. The free agent crop is thin and the team may be forced to wait until teams begin trimming their rosters to make a decision. Eric Moulds is one possibility, as he fits what the Giants are looking for. That is, a speedy receiver with good hands who can get open in intermediate routes. He, Toomer and Burress would make an impressive trio.

An attractive option at linebacker could be Adalius Thomas of the Ravens. He'll be a very popular selection amongst the media this off-season and will command a premium in the open market. The question exists as to whether his skills make him a good player, or the presence of Ray Lewis. Another option could be Lance Briggs of the Bears.

Finally, the Giants need to do whatever it takes to sign either Asante Samuel or Nate Clements to play corner alongside Sam Madison. Madison struggled at this this season, but showed that he's far and away their best option at the position. R.W. McQuarters leaves plenty to be desired and Corey Webster plays like he's lost, often failing to simply locate the ball. Neither will propel this defense to the next level.

On this is certain for the Giants and their fans and that is that changes are coming. The Giants are well under the cap and are sure to go spend away, as the time to win is now. It should make for an interesting off season.