The first day of free agency is in the books, and the New York Giants shelled out boatloads of cash to Jason Pierre-Paul, Janoris Jenkins, Damon Harrison and Olivier Vernon. They aren’t done by a long shot, but they may be done making big splashes. GM Jerry Reese went out and got his top targets in free agency, which greatly affects the team’s 2016 NFL Draft strategy.
Heading into free agency, the Giants seemed destined to target a defensive end with the tenth overall selection in the draft. They still could since Pierre-Paul is only back on a one-year deal and the Giants figure to have a fair shot at many of the top defensive ends. However, the signing frenzy allows Reese to take the best player available at a position of need, and the Giants still have several large holes to fill.
Rueben Randle is a free agent, though it looks like Victor Cruz will restructure his deal and remain with the Giants. The Giants could use another wide receiver, as well as one more offensive lineman after letting Will Beatty and Geoff Schwartz go.
Bobby Hart will probably fill a vacant guard spot, but the team could definitely use some depth along the offensive line. A linebacker and a safety could also be on the wishlist, though New York does have options.
Reese’s moves gives the Giants more flexibility, but what doesn’t change is that he needs to hit a home run in the draft. The Giants have grabbed some excellent talent like Odell Beckham, Jr., Justin Pugh, Ereck Flowers and Johnathan Hankins, though Reese knows his job is on the line here, and his first pick in 2016 better step right in and make an impact.