The New York Giants concluded their 2023 NFL season with a disappointing 6-11 record, missing the playoffs for the sixth time in seven years. The season was riddled with challenges, but Daniel Jones’ ACL tear in Week 8 against the Las Vegas Raiders felt like the ultimate blow.
The Giants’ season began with a demoralizing 40-0 shutout by the Dallas Cowboys. While they managed a thrilling comeback victory against the Arizona Cardinals in Week 2, they then suffered a four-game losing streak, falling to a dismal 1-5 record. Particularly noteworthy was their 24-3 defeat against the Seattle Seahawks on Monday Night Football, marked by a disastrous red zone pick-six thrown by Daniel Jones that led to an epic outburst from Head Coach Brian Daboll.
Though the first half of the season was undeniably rough, the Giants showed signs of improvement down the stretch. Despite a 3-4 record in their final seven games, the defense stepped up significantly, forcing an impressive 21 turnovers. While they were far from Super Bowl contenders, the Giants displayed a resilience and defensive fortitude that offered a glimmer of hope for the future.
This brings us to the crux of the matter: the New York Giants are a team with potential, but they face a significant obstacle. This article delves into the team’s strengths, weaknesses, and what lies ahead in the 2024 NFL season.
Roster Changes: Key Additions and Notable Departures
The Giants experienced a significant roster turnover during the offseason, losing several key players while making strategic acquisitions to strengthen their lineup.
Free Agency Losses
The Giants bid farewell to three impactful players in free agency:
- Xavier McKinney (Safety): McKinney’s departure left a considerable void in the Giants’ secondary. A young and talented safety, McKinney was a consistent performer, recording over 100 tackles and three interceptions in the previous season. His ability to disrupt plays and make crucial tackles will be sorely missed.
- Saquon Barkley (Running Back): Barkley’s departure to the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles was met with mixed reactions. While his departure undoubtedly stings from an emotional standpoint, statistically, his impact had diminished in recent years. Despite rushing for 962 yards in 2023, Barkley had only one 1,000-yard rushing season in the past four years.
- Dexter Lawrence (Defensive Lineman): Lawrence, a force to be reckoned with on the defensive line, also departed in free agency, signing a lucrative deal with the Carolina Panthers. Known for his run-stuffing prowess and ability to collapse the pocket, Lawrence’s absence leaves a gaping hole in the Giants’ defensive front.
Offseason Acquisitions
To compensate for their losses and address key areas of improvement, the Giants made several notable acquisitions:
- John Runyan Jr. (Guard): The Giants bolstered their offensive line by signing former Green Bay Packers guard, John Runyan Jr.. Runyan Jr., known for his solid pass protection and run blocking, is expected to immediately upgrade the Giants’ interior offensive line.
- Deon Jackson (Running Back): With Saquon Barkley’s departure, the Giants signed Deon Jackson, formerly of the Indianapolis Colts, to add depth to their running back room. Jackson, a physical runner with a knack for finding the end zone, will compete for carries and contribute on special teams.
- Germain Ifedi (Right Tackle): Addressing their need at right tackle, the Giants signed veteran offensive lineman Germain Ifedi, who last played for the Atlanta Falcons. Ifedi brings a wealth of experience to the offensive line and will provide much-needed stability to the right side.
- Drew Lock (Quarterback): The Giants signed veteran quarterback Drew Lock to serve as the primary backup to Daniel Jones. Lock, who previously played for the Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks, adds valuable experience and a strong arm to the quarterback room.
The Brian Burns Trade: A Game-Changer for the Giants’ Defense
In a move that sent ripples through the league, the Giants acquired star pass rusher Brian Burns from the Carolina Panthers in exchange for a second-round pick. This trade is widely considered a steal for the Giants, as they secured a young and immensely talented edge rusher in his prime.
Burns, only 26 years old, immediately upgrades the Giants’ pass rush. His arrival forms a formidable trio alongside Leonard Williams and Kayvon Thibodeaux, creating havoc for opposing quarterbacks. The trade allows the Giants to deploy a more aggressive and disruptive defense, a key factor in their quest for a playoff berth.
The Glaring Weakness: Can the Giants’ Offense Keep Pace?
While the Giants’ defense appears poised for a strong 2024 season, their offense remains a major question mark. Despite the coaching prowess of Brian Daboll, who orchestrated a remarkable turnaround with Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills, the Giants’ offense struggled mightily in 2023.
Daniel Jones: Finding Consistency Under Center
Daniel Jones’ performance in 2023 was a tale of two seasons. While he showcased flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency and struggles under pressure hampered the Giants’ offensive production. Jones’ development and ability to perform at a consistently high level will be crucial for the Giants’ success in 2024.
Offensive Line: Protection is Paramount
The Giants’ offensive line, a persistent weakness in recent years, remains a major concern. While Andrew Thomas has emerged as a cornerstone left tackle, the rest of the line needs to elevate their play significantly. The additions of Runyan Jr. and Ifedi provide some optimism, but their performance and ability to gel as a unit will be critical for Jones and the offense to thrive.
Receiving Corps: Opportunities for Breakout Performances
The Giants’ receiving corps, led by the promising duo of Darius Slayton and Isaiah Hodgins, will need to step up in 2024. Slayton, a deep threat with game-breaking speed, needs to find more consistency, while Hodgins, a reliable possession receiver, will aim to build on his strong finish to the 2023 season. The development of young tight end Daniel Bellinger will also be crucial for adding another dimension to the Giants’ passing game.
Conclusion: A Season of Uncertainty and Potential
The 2024 NFL season presents both challenges and opportunities for the New York Giants. Their revamped defense, led by the addition of Brian Burns, has the potential to be a dominant force. However, the offense’s ability to find consistency and establish a balanced attack will ultimately determine their fate. If Daniel Jones can elevate his game, the offensive line can provide adequate protection, and the receiving corps can make plays, the Giants have the pieces in place to compete in a highly competitive NFC East.
