Last Updated: May 11, 2013
2013 FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
WR JEREMY HORNE (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Jeremy Horne in May 2013 after he impressed at the rookie mini-camp as tryout player. Horne was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Kansas City Chiefs after the 2010 NFL Draft. Horne spent time on both the Chiefs’ 53-man roster and practice squad until he was finally released in August 2012. He has only played in 12 games with no catches. Horne has good size and athletic ability.
TE MICHAEL PALMER (Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants signed Palmer in May 2013 after he impressed at the rookie mini-camp as tryout player. Palmer was originally signed by the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. In three seasons with the Falcons, Palmer played in 43 regular season games with five starts and caught 21 passes for 123 yards and three touchdowns. Palmer is a tall, somewhat thin tight end who is a decent blocker and athlete. He is a smart player who has a feel for getting open. Palmer adjusts well to the football and has good hands. He does lack quickness and speed to threaten a defense.
DT FRANK OKAM (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Frank Okam in May 2013 after he impressed at the rookie mini-camp as tryout player. Okam was originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. Okam has spent time with the Texans (2008-10), Seahawks (2010), and Buccaneers (2010-12). The Buccaneers released Okam in August 2012 and he did not play last season. From 2008-11, Okam played in 25 games with six starts. Okam is a huge, strong player with limited overall athleticism and agility. He is a run-stuffing nose tackle type who does not get much heat on the quarterback. Okam has very good tools, but he needs to become a more consistent effort player. Very smart.
LB AARON CURRY (Released by Oakland Raiders): The Giants signed Curry in May 2013. Curry was originally drafted in the first-round (#4 overall) of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks traded Curry to the Oakland Raiders in October 2011, during the season. The Raiders cut Curry in November 2012. An extremely highly-regarded prospect who was known as a physical play-maker in college, Curry’s NFL career has been plagued by inconsistent play and knee issues. Curry has excellent size and strength. Although he lacks ideal lateral agility, when healthy, he is a very good athlete who runs well. Curry also has good intangibles – he works hard on and off the field. But to date, Curry has been an NFL bust. Critics have pointed to the lack of big plays, inconsistency, poor coverage, and too often being out of position. Curry underwent stem-cell therapy on both of his knees during the 2012 offseason and missed most of the season.
RB ANDRE BROWN (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Brown was having a breakout season as a quality #2 running back in 2012 until he broke his leg in November. Brown finished the season 385 yards and eight touchdowns on 73 carries (5.3 yards per carry). He also caught 12 passes for 86 yards. Brown was originally drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Brown missed all of 2009 with a torn Achilles tendon that he suffered in training camp and the Giants waived Brown in September 2010. Brown then spent time with the Broncos, Colts, Panthers, and Redskins before coming back to the Giants in August 2011. Brown spent the 2011 on the Giants’ Practice Squad. Brown has a nice combination of size and athleticism. More of a north-south, cutback runner than elusive, Brown has some power to his game. Brown performs well in short-yardage and goal line situations. He has good hands as a receiver.
DE ADRIAN TRACY (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): Tracy was drafted by the Giants in the 6th round of the 2010 NFL Draft, but missed all of his rookie season due to a preseason elbow injury. In 2011, he was on the team’s Practice Squad. In 2012, Tracy made the 53-man roster and was active for all 16 games. He finished the season with nine tackles, one sack, and one forced fumble. The Giants have played Tracy both at linebacker and defensive end, but the team seems to want him at end now. Tracy lacks size for an end, but he is strong for his size and very athletic for the position.
OC JIM CORDLE (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): Cordle was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. He spent all of his rookie season on the Practice Squad but was active for nine games in 2011 and all 16 games in 2012 as a back-up. Cordle is a versatile lineman who can play center and guard, but to-date he has not stood out as run or pass blocker at the NFL level.
DT MIKE PATTERSON (Released by Philadelphia Eagles): Patterson was signed by the Giants in April 2013. Patterson was originally drafted in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles. In eight seasons with the Eagles, Patterson played in 115 regular-season games with 99 starts. Patterson underwent brain surgery in January 2012 to repair an arteriovenous malformation. He played in just five games in 2012 before being placed on the reserve/non-football illness list last year with pneumonia. The Eagles waived Patterson in February 2013. Patterson lacks ideal size, but he is a good athlete who can be disruptive with his quickness. He has experience in both 1- and 2-gap schemes. Tough, Patterson is a steady run defender and has 16.5 career sacks.
OG KEVIN BOOTHE (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): In 2012, Boothe started all 16 games at left guard for the Giants. In 2011, Boothe demonstrated his tremendous versatility by starting seven games at left guard, five at center, and one at right guard. Boothe was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Raiders and started 14 games for Oakland at right guard as a rookie. The Raiders cut him in September 2007 and the Giants immediately claimed him off of waivers. While he lacks ideal agility and movement skills, Boothe has good size and strength. He is a solid, consistent performer as a run blocker and pass protector.
S STEVIE BROWN (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Brown had a tremendous season in 2012, intercepting more passes in a single season by a Giant in 44 years. Brown played in all 16 games, started 11, and finished with 76 tackles, 11 pass defenses, eight interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Brown was originally drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 7th round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played in 15 games as a rookie for the Raiders, starting one game. The Raiders released him in September 2011. After a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers, Brown was signed by the Indianapolis Colts. He played in eight games with the Colts in 2011. Set to become an exclusive rights free agent, Indianapolis did not tender him, thus making him an unrestricted free agent. The Giants then signed him in April 2012. Brown has superb size for a safety and is fast for his size. He lacks ideal quickness. In 2012, Brown not only became a ballhawk, but also became a dangerous returner after the interception, averaging over 38 yards per interception return. The big question with Brown was 2012 a fluke?
QB DAVID CARR (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Carr was originally drafted as the very first pick in the 2002 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. In 11 seasons, David Carr has played with four teams: Texans (2002-06), Panthers (2007), 49ers (2010), and Giants (2008-09, 2011-12). Given Eli Manning’s iron-man status, Carr has seen very little action with the Giants in four seasons, completing 32-of-48 passes for 359 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions in mop-up duty. Carr has all of the tools (size, athletic, strong arm), but he was a disappointment in Houston, Carolina, and San Francisco. Carr can appear indecisive at times and thus hold onto the ball too long. He can surprise teams with his ability to run with the ball.
TE BRANDON MYERS (Unrestricted Free Agent from Oakland Raiders): Myers was signed by the Giants as an unrestricted free agent from the Oakland Raiders in March 2013. Myers was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Raiders. Myers had a breakout season for the Raiders in 2012, starting all 16 games and catching 79 passes for 806 yards and four touchdowns. Myers lacks ideal size and athleticism. He works hard at his blocking but lacks the size strength to excel in that area. Myers has developed into a productive and reliable target in the passing game, but he won’t threaten a defense deep and does not run well after the catch.
LB DAN CONNOR (Released by Dallas Cowboys): Connor was signed by the Giants in March 2013 after he was released by the Dallas Cowboys. Connor was originally drafted in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. He signed with the Cowboys as a free agent in March 2012. In five NFL seasons, Connor has played in 56 regular-season games with 27 starts. In 2012, Connor started eight games for the Cowboys and finished the season with 56 tackles and one pass defense. Connor has decent size, but lacks athleticism. He is more of a blue-collar, two-down run defender who sometimes struggles in pass coverage. Connor is not overly physical at the point-of-attack, but he avoids blocks well and is a good, solid tackler. Versatile, Connor has experience playing in both the 4-3 and 3-4 defenses as well as playing middle and outside linebacker. Connor has been injury-prone.
WR LOUIS MURPHY (Unrestricted Free Agent from Carolina Panthers): Murphy was signed by the Giants as an unrestricted free agent from the Carolina Panthers in March 2013. Murphy was originally drafted in the 4th round of the NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders traded Murphy to the Panthers in July 2012. In four NFL seasons, Murphy has played in 57 games with 24 starts. In 2012, Murphy played in all 16 games with five starts with the Panthers. He finished the season with 25 catches for 336 yards and one touchdown. Murphy has good size for a receiver. He has very good speed and can get deep. Murphy lacks “natural” hands and can be inconsistent catching the ball.
S RYAN MUNDY (Unrestricted Free Agent from the Pittsburgh Steelers): Mundy was signed by the Giants as an unrestricted free agent from the Pittsburgh Steelers in March 2013. Mundy was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Steelers. He spent time on the Steelers’ Practice Squad in 2008. From 2009-2012, Mundy did not miss a regular season game and started five times, including three starts last year when he finished the season with 39 tackles and two pass defenses. Mundy has good size and is very physical, but has struggled at times against the run and pass in Pittsburgh. Good special teams player.
LB KEITH RIVERS (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants acquired Rivers via trade from the Cincinnati Bengals in April 2012 for a 5th round pick in the 2013 Draft, but Rivers – once again – had trouble staying healthy. Hamstring and calf injuries caused him to miss five games and limited his playing time and effectiveness. Rivers finished the season with six starts and accrued 44 tackles. Rivers was originally drafted by the Bengals in the 1st round of the 2008 NFL Draft. In four seasons in Cincinnati, Rivers started 33-of-35 regular-season games he played in. But he missed 29 regular-season games with injuries – including nine games in 2008 with a broken jaw and all of the 2011 season with a wrist injury that required surgery. Rivers also missed time in 2009 with a calf injury and in 2010 with plantar fasciitis. Rivers is a well-built, athletic, three-down linebacker. He is more of the run-and-hit type than physical presence at the point-of-attack against the run. Rivers has the overall athletic ability and range to do well in coverage, but he needs to become more consistent in that area of his game. He only has two career sacks. Rivers just can’t seem to stay healthy.
PK JOSH BROWN (Unrestricted Free Agent from the Cincinnati Bengals): Brown was signed by the Giants as an unrestricted free agent from the Cincinnati Bengals in March 2013. Brown only played in the last four games of the season after he was signed by the Bengals in December 2012. He finished 11-of-12 on field goal attempts. Brown was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. From 2003-07, he kicked for the Seahawks. From 2008-11, he kicked for the St. Louis Rams. For his career, Brown is a 81.3 percent field goal kicker.
HB RYAN TORAIN (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants originally signed Torain in November 2012 as a street free agent. He played in two games but did not touch the football. Torain was originally drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 5th round of the 2008 NFL Draft. Torain was waived by the Broncos in August 2009. He signed with the Washington Redskins in 2010 and spent time on both Washington’s 53-man roster and Practice Squad. The Redskins waived Torain in December 2011. Torain’s best year was in 2010 with the Redskins when he rushed for 742 yards and four touchdowns on 164 carries and caught 18 passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns. Torain is a tough, physical runner with good size. He lacks ideal speed and elusiveness. Injury-prone.
CB AARON ROSS (Released by the Jacksonville Jaguars): Ross signed with the Giants in March 2013 after he was released by the Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2012, Ross played in 14 games with nine starts for the Jaguars. He finished the year with 46 tackles and three pass defenses. Ross was originally drafted in the 1st round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Giants. In five seasons with the Giants, Ross started 41 regular-season games, including 15 starts in 2011, when he finished with career highs in tackles (60), pass defenses (12), and interceptions (four). Ross missed a lot of time in 2009 (hamstring) and 2010 (plantar fascia tear) with injuries. Ross combines good size and athleticism. He is fluid and smooth in coverage, but lacks ideal speed and quickness. There seems to be a few games every season where Ross struggles in coverage. He can be aggressive and physical in run support.
DT CULLEN JENKINS (Released by the Philadelphia Eagles): Jenkins was signed by the Giants in March 2013 after he was released by the Philadelphia Eagles in February. Jenkins was originally signed by Green Bay Packers as an undrafted free agent after the 2003 NFL Draft. He did not make the team but spent time in NFL Europe and then re-signed with the Packers in 2004. From 2004-10, Jenkins played with the Packers until he signed with the Eagles in 2011. Jenkins lacks ideal size and is on the downside of his career, but he still is a solid two-way defensive tackle who can play the run and rush the passer. Versatile, he has experience in the 4-3 as a defensive tackle and as an end in the 3-4. In the last four seasons, he’s averaged over five sacks a year. Jenkins is a tough guy who plays with an attitude.
DE JUSTIN TRATTOU (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): Trattou was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2012 after he suffered ankle and heel injuries in training camp. He flashed in training camp before he got hurt. Trattou was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2011 NFL Draft. He split his rookie season on the Practice Squad and 53-man roster. Trattou played in six regular season games in 2011, serving mainly on special teams. Trattou is a decent athlete with fine quickness, but he is not an explosive edge rusher.
OT WILL BEATTY (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Beatty had a solid season at left tackle in 2012 after issues with his back caused him to miss a lot of practice time in the offseason and at training camp. He regained his starting job early in the season and was a steady performer for most of the year. Drafted in the 2nd round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Beatty became the new starter at left tackle in 2011, but was placed on Injured Reserve in November 2011 after having surgery to repair a detached retina in his right eye. Beatty also started four games at right tackle in 2009 and two games at left tackle in 2010. Beatty missed half of 2010 with a foot fracture. Beatty is a big, athletic linemen with quick feet and long arms. He is a better pass protector than run blocker, but has improved his consistency in both areas. Beatty has been somewhat injury-prone although he did play in every game in 2012.
PK DAVID BUEHLER (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Buehler as a street free agent in February 2013. Buehler was originally drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 5th round of the 2009 NFL Draft. In his three seasons with the Cowboys (2009-11), Buehler served as a kickoff specialist with over 34 percent of his kickoffs resulting in touchbacks. In 2010, he also served as the Cowboys’ field goal kicker and finished the season 24-of-32 (75 percent); he also missed two extra points. Buehler was placed on Injured Reserve in November 2011 with a torn abductor muscle and also underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his hip in December 2011. The Cowboys waived him in March 2012 and he did not play football that year.
DT SHAUN ROGERS (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Rogers was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2012 with a blood clot in his leg. The Giants signed Rogers as an unrestricted free agent in April 2012. Rogers was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. In 11 NFL seasons, Rogers has played for the Lions (2001-07), Browns, (2008-10), and Saints (2011). He was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2004, 2005, and 2008. Rogers is a huge, powerful player. In his prime, he was a very strong run defender who could also push the pocket on the pass rush. However, he is nearing the end of his career. He started four games for the Saints in 2011 and finished with just 22 tackles and no sacks. Amazingly, Rogers has blocked 14 field goal attempts in his career.
TE BEAR PASCOE (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Pascoe is a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none type of player whose strength is his overall versatility. Pascoe plays tight end, H-Back, and even some fullback for the Giants. He does not stand out as a blocker or receiver, and needs to improve his productivity and consistency in both areas. Pascoe finished the 2012 with only four catches for 35 yards and one touchdown. In four seasons with the Giants, he has 26 catches for 252 yards and one score. Pascoe was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft, but he did not make the team.
TE JAMIE CHILDERS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Childers to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Childers was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the St. Louis Rams after the 2012 NFL Draft. The Rams waived him in August. Childers needs a lot of technique work not only because of his small school background but because he played both quarterback and tight end in college. Childers lacks size. Childers is built more like an H-Back than true tight end. He’s athletic and has good hands. He will never be more than a finesse blocker.
CB BUDDY JACKSON (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Jackson to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Jackson was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2012 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts waived him in August and the Washington Redskins then signed him to their Practice Squad in November 2012. Jackson has good height but has a slender build and needs to fill out more. Jackson is a very good athlete with excellent speed and leaping ability. But Jackson only started one game in college and needs a lot of technique work.
PK/P JAKE ROGERS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Rogers to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Rogers was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the New Orleans Saints after the 2011 NFL Draft. Since then he has also spent time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Dallas Cowboys, although he has never made a 53-man roster. Rogers is versatile, having experience as both a place kicker and punter. He has decent leg strength but was an inconsistent college place kicker.
WR KRIS ADAMS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Adams to a Reserve/Future deal in January 2013. Adams was originally signed by the Chicago Bears and an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2011 NFL Draft. He did not make the team but spent time on the Practice Squads of the Bears, Rams, and Vikings in 2011. The Colts signed him in June 2012. He made the 53-man roster but was moved to the Practice Squad in October. In 2012, he played in three games with the Colts and had two catches for 26 yards. Adams has a nice combination of size and athletic ability, but he needs a lot of technique work.
CB ANTONIO DENNARD (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Dennard to a Reserve/Future deal in January 2013. Dennard was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Jacksonville Jaguars after the 2012 NFL Draft. He did not make the team but spent most of the season on the Jaguars’ Practice Squad. Dennard lacks ideal size, but he’s a physical corner with decent athletic and ball skills. He played at a lower level of competition collegiately so Dennard needs a lot of technique work.
OG BRYANT BROWNING (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Browning to a Reserve/Future deal in January 2013. Browning was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the St. Louis Rams after the 2011 NFL Draft. He was waived by the Rams in August 2011 and claimed off of waivers by the Carolina Panthers. Browning spent much of 2011 on the Panthers’ Practice Squad. In 2012, he spent time on the practice squads of the Panthers and Browns. Browning has good size but he lacks ideal athletic ability.
OG CHRIS DeGEARE (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed DeGeare to a Reserve/Future deal in January 2013. DeGeare was originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He played in eight games as a rookie, including five starts at left guard. He was on the Vikings’ Practice Squad in 2011 and the Tennessee Titans’ Practice Squad in 2012. DeGeare has a nice combination of size and athleticism. He flashes as a blocker, but is inconsistent and has struggled with the mental aspects of the game.
S DAVID CALDWELL (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Caldwell to a Reserve/Future deal in January 2013. Caldwell was originally signed by the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. He spent his rookie season on Injured Reserve. In 2011, he played in 16 games with 13 starts and accrued 67 tackles and four pass defenses. The Colts waived him in August 2012. Caldwell lacks ideal height but he is well-built and a good athlete. He’s a smart player and a reliable tackler. Caldwell didn’t make many plays on the football when starting for the Colts.
QB CURTIS PAINTER (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Painter to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Painter was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts waived him in March 2012. The Baltimore Ravens signed him in April 2012 but waived him in August 2012. In 2011, Painter started eight games for the Colts, completing 54.3 percent of his passes for 1,541 yards, 6 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Painter has good size and arm strength, but has struggled at the NFL level in terms of his decision-making and accuracy.
WR BRANDON COLLINS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Collins to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Collins was originally was signed as a rookie free agent by the Giants after the May rookie mini-camp. He spent some time on the Giants’ Practice Squad in September. Collins lacks ideal size but he has very good speed, quickness, and leaping ability. Collins has experience returning punts.
WR KEVIN HARDY (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Hardy to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Hardy was originally signed by the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2012 NFL Draft. The Saints waived him in August 2012. Hardy has ordinary size, but he has very good speed.
OG MICHAEL JASPER (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Jasper to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Jasper was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He spent time on the Bills’ Practice Squad that year, but the Bills waived him in August 2012. The Titans then picked him up before waiving him two weeks later. Jasper is a mammoth player with very good athleticism for his size. But he is extremely raw and does not appear to be an instinctive football player. Jasper could project to defensive tackle.
DT BOBBY SKINNER (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Skinner to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Skinner was originally signed as rookie free agent by the Giants in August 2012 but waived almost immediately. The Lions claimed him off of waivers from the Giants but waived him shortly after that. Collegiately, Skinner played at Division III Montclair State and obviously needs a lot of technique work.
LB JAKE MUASAU (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Muasau to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. Jake Muasau was originally signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the May rookie mini-camp. Muasau was voted his collegiate team’s most valuable defensive player by his teammates in 2010 and 2011 when he played the “bandit” DE/LB hybrid position. Muasau has good size and plays with good intensity.
CB TRUMAINE McBRIDE (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed McBride to a Reserve/Future contract in January 2013. McBride was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Chicago Bears. The Bears waived him in September 2009. Since then, he has spent time with the Cardinals, Saints, and Jaguars. Nine of McBride’s 10 NFL starts came as a rookie. He has played in 48 NFL games but only one last season with the Jaguars. McBride lacks ideal size.
2012 FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
HB RYAN TORAIN (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Torain in November 2012 as a street free agent. Torain was originally drafted by the Denver Broncos in the 5th round of the 2008 NFL Draft. Torain was waived by the Broncos in August 2009. He signed with the Washington Redskins in 2010 and spent time on both Washington’s 53-man roster and Practice Squad. The Redskins waived Torain in December 2011. Torain’s best year was in 2010 with the Redskins when he rushed for 742 yards and four touchdowns on 164 carries and caught 18 passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns. Torain is a tough, physical runner with good size. He lacks ideal speed and elusiveness. Injury-prone.
HB KREGG LUMPKIN (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Lumpkin as a street free agent in November 2012. Lumpkin was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Green Bay Packers after the 2008 NFL Draft. Lumpkin has spent time with the Packers (2008-09), Buccaneers (2010-11), and Seahawks (2012). The Seahawks released Lumpkin in September 2012. By far, Lumpkin’s most productive season was 2011 in Tampa when he carried the ball 31 times for 105 yards and caught 41 passes for 291 yards. A bit of a halfback-fullback ‘twiner, Lumpkin lacks speed and elusiveness, but he’s a big runner with some power. He is a good blocker and can catch the football.
DT MARCUS THOMAS (Unrestricted Free Agent from Broncos): The Giants signed Thomas as an unrestricted free agent from the Denver Broncos in August 2012. Thomas was drafted in the 4th round of the 2007 Draft by the Broncos. In five seasons with Denver, Thomas played in 76 games (with 34 starts). In 2011, he started 11 games and finished the season with 43 tackles and no sacks. He missed the first four games with shoulder and groin injuries. Thomas has good size. He is a better run defender than pass rusher (1 career sack).
DT CARLTON POWELL (Street Free Agent): Powell was signed as a street free agent in August 2012 when injuries hit the defensive tackle position hard in training camp. Powell was drafted in the 5th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos but was waived after he ruptured an Achilles tendon. Since that time, Powell has spent time with the Browns, Broncos (again), Buccaneers, Jets, and Falcons. He has only played in three NFL games and has only one career tackle.
DT ROCKY BERNARD (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Bernard has served as the Giants’ primary reserve tackle for three seasons. After a rough beginning with the team in 2009 when he played with a partially-torn rotator cuff, Bernard has had two solid seasons in a row. He finished the 2011 regular season with 30 tackles, no sacks, and one forced fumble. A disruptive player with the Seahawks (2002-2008), Bernard now is a steady, veteran presence who occasionally makes plays against the run and rushing the passer. Bernard has ordinary size for the position and he does not appear as quick and as athletic as he did earlier in his career.
CB DANTE HUGHES (Street Free Agent): Hughes was signed by the Giants in May 2012. Hughes was originally drafted in the 3rd round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts waived him in September 2009 and was then signed by the San Diego Chargers. The Chargers waived him March 2012. In five NFL seasons, Hughes has played in 53 regular season games, starting two. 2011 was his most productive season with 42 tackles and three pass defenses. Hughes is a physical corner who is quick, but not overly fast.
S WILL HILL (Street Free Agent): Hill was signed as a street free agent after the May rookie mini-camp. A top-ranked athlete coming out of high school in New Jersey, Hill has skills, but he has wasted them to date. Hill entered the 2011 NFL as a junior but went undrafted and was not signed by an NFL team. He did play in the Arena League in 2011. Hill combines decent size and very good athletic ability. He flashes against the pass but lacks technique and consistency. Hill is not a very physical or consistent run defender. He is a very good special teams player. Hill has a history of making bad decisions off of the football field. There are many red flags regarding his maturity and character.
DT SHAUN ROGERS (Unrestricted Free Agent from Saints): The Giants signed Rogers in April 2012. Rogers was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2001 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions. In 11 NFL seasons, Rogers has played for the Lions (2001-07), Browns, (2008-10), and Saints (2011). He was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2004, 2005, and 2008. Rogers is a huge, powerful player. In his prime, he was a very strong run defender who could also push the pocket on the pass rush. However, he is nearing the end of his career. He started four games for the Saints in 2011 and finished with just 22 tackles and no sacks. Amazingly, Rogers has blocked 14 field goal attempts in his career.
TE BEAR PASCOE (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): The strength of Pascoe’s game is his versatility. The Giants use him a tight end, H-Back, and fullback. Pascoe has good size, but he is not overly athletic. He does not really stand out as a blocker or receiver, and needs to improve his productivity and consistency in both areas. Pascoe finished the 2011 regular season with 12 catches for 136 yards. In three seasons with the Giants, he has 22 catches for 217 yards. Pascoe was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft, but he did not make the team.
LB CHASE BLACKBURN (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants re-signed Blackburn in late November 2011 after choosing not to re-sign him before the season started when he was an unrestricted free agent. Blackburn immediately became the starter at middle linebacker and the overall play of the defense improved down the stretch and throughout the playoffs. In the last nine games of the season, including playoffs, Blackburn accrued 52 tackles, three pass defenses, and two interceptions. Blackburn was originally signed by the Giants as an undrafted free agent after the 2005 NFL Draft. After starting 15 games in 2008-09, Blackburn was strictly a special teams player in 2010, serving as the unit’s captain. Blackburn can play all three linebacker spots. He has good size. A bit on the stiff side, Blackburn is not overly fast or quick. But this hard-working overachiever really stepped up his play in 2011 both against the run and the pass. Blackburn was elected first-alternate to the NFC’s Pro Bowl roster as a special teams player in 2008.
CB ANTWAUN MOLDEN (Unrestricted Free Agent from Patriots): The Giants signed Molden as an unrestricted free agent from the New England Patriots in April 2012. Molden was originally drafted in the 3rd round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. The Texans waived Molden in August 2011 and he was then claimed off of waivers by the Patriots. In four NFL seasons, he has only started two games, both in 2011 with the Patriots. He finished 2011 with 36 tackles, three pass defenses, and two interceptions. Molden has a nice combination of size and athleticism, but he has not played up to his physical ability thus far in the NFL. Molden does not appear to be overly instinctive in coverage. He also has had problems staying healthy.
OT/OG SEAN LOCKLEAR (Unrestricted Free Agent from Redskins): The Giants signed Locklear as an unrestricted free agent from the Washington Redskins in April 2012. Locklear was originally drafted in the 3rd round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks. The Redskins signed him as a free agent in 2011. In eight NFL seasons, Locklear has played in 105 regular-season games with 82 starts. He has experience at both tackle spots and guard, but most of his playing time has come at right tackle. Locklear is a versatile, experienced, veteran lineman on the downside of his career.
S STEVIE BROWN (Unrestricted Free Agent from Colts): The Giants signed Brown in April 2012. Brown was originally drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 7th round of the 2010 NFL Draft. He played in 15 games as a rookie for the Raiders, starting one game. The Raiders released him in September 2011. After a brief stint with the Carolina Panthers, Brown was signed by the Indianapolis Colts. He played in eight games with the Colts in 2011. Set to become an exclusive rights free agent, Indianapolis did not tender him, thus making him an unrestricted free agent. Brown is a strong safety-type who performs better against the run than in coverage. He played both safety and linebacker at Michigan. Brown is a good special teams player.
P STEVE WEATHERFORD (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants signed Weatherford in July 2011 as an unrestricted free agent from the New York Jets. Before coming to the Giants, he played for the Saints (2006-08), Chiefs (2008), Jaguars (2008), and Jets (2009-2010). Weatherford brought much needed stability to the Giants’ punting game. Weatherford is a good directional kicker and is adept at placing punts inside the 20-yard line. In 2011, he averaged a career-best 45.7 yards per punt (39.2 net) and had 25 punts downed inside the 20-yard line.
S CHRIS HORTON (Street Free Agent): Horton was signed as a street free agent by the Giants in March 2012. Horton was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. Horton started 10 games as a rookie for the Redskins, finishing with 76 tackles and three interceptions. He started another five in 2009 but was placed on Injured Reserve with a torn toe ligament. He played in seven games (with no starts) in 2010 before being placed on Injured Reserve again, this time with an ankle injury. The Redskins waived him in September 2011 and he was not picked up by another team. Horton is a strong safety-type with excellent size. However, he lacks ideal athleticism (agility and range) for the position. Horton is better again the run than in coverage. Good special teams player.
QB DAVID CARR (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Carr was originally drafted as the very first pick in the 2002 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. In 10 seasons, David Carr has played with four teams: Texans (2002-06), Panthers (2007), 49ers (2010), and Giants (2008-09, 2011). Carr did not take a snap for the Giants in 2011, but he did perform well in limited mop-up duty for the Giants in 2008 and 2009. In his career, Carr has started 79 games with 65 touchdowns and 71 interceptions, completing almost 60 percent of his passes. Carr has all of the tools (size, athletic, strong arm), but he was a disappointment in Houston, Carolina, and San Francisco. Carr can appear indecisive at times and hold onto the ball too long. He can surprise teams with his ability to run with the ball.
TE MARTELLUS BENNETT (Unrestricted Free Agent from Cowboys): Bennett signed with the Giants as an unrestricted free agent in March 2012. Bennett was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. In four seasons with the Cowboys, Bennett played in 60 regular-season games with 31 starts, 85 catches, 846 yards, and four touchdowns. Bennett has an excellent combination of size and athletic ability. He is a good blocker. However, despite his overall athleticism, he has not emerged yet as a consistent receiving threat. Bennett was considered somewhat of a disappointment in Dallas although he was stuck behind All-Pro Jason Witten. Bennett can be inconsistent catching the football. There are questions about his maturity. He is still a young player with an upside if he can improve his focus and dedication to the game.
CB JUSTIN TRYON (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants signed Tryon in October 2011. He was placed on Injured Reserve at the end of that month after having surgery on his fractured right arm. Tryon was originally drafted in the 4th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. Tryon was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in September 2010. The Colts surprisingly waived him in late September 2011. Tryon has played in 47 regular-season games (three with the Giants) with eight starts. In those games, he accrued 85 tackles, one sack, 11 pass defenses, and one interception. He also started in the 2010 AFC Wild Card game against the Jets and intercepted a pass in that game. Tryon lacks size, but he is an athletic corner with good quickness. He reacts well to the football and closes quickly. Tryon has experience returning kickoffs.
CB MICHAEL COE (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Coe was placed on Injured Reserve in late November with a shoulder injury that required surgery. Coe was originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Since then, he has spent time with the Colts, Jaguars, and Giants. Coe was on the Giants’ Practice Squad in both 2009 and 2010, and also spent time on the Giants’ 53-man roster in 2010. Coe has a nice combination of size and athleticism. He flashed at times in coverage in the 2011 preseason and regular season with the Giants. He is a good special teams player.
TE LARRY DONNELL (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Donnell as a street free agent in March 2012. Donnell went undrafted and unsigned after the 2011 NFL Draft. Donnell has excellent size and is a good athlete. However, he is very raw and needs a lot of coaching.
OT JOEL REINDERS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Reinders as a street free agent in March 2012. Reinders was originally signed by the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. The Browns waived him in September 2010. Reinders did not play football in 2011. Reinders is a huge, athletic lineman. However, he is extremely raw as he played in only eight games at a Canadian college.
CB TERRELL THOMAS (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Thomas was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2011 after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his knee. Thomas tore the same ACL in college and it remains to be seen if he can fully recover his athletic skills. Before suffering the injury in the preseason, Thomas looked primed for perhaps his best season. Thomas was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Giants. Thomas became a full-time starter in 2009 due to Aaron Ross’ hamstring woes and he remained the starter in 2010. In 2009 and 2010, Thomas was a very solid corner who made a lot of big plays but also occasionally gave up a few. In the 31 games he started during that time frame, Thomas accrued 186 tackles, 34 pass defenses, and 10 interceptions. Thomas is a big, physical corner who matches up well with bigger receivers. Pre-injury, while not a blazer, he was a good athlete with fine speed and quickness for his size. Thomas is very good in run support and a good blitzer.
TE JAKE BALLARD (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): An undrafted player who spent most of his rookie season on the Practice Squad, Ballard came out of nowhere in his second season to become the team’s primary tight end. In his first season with any significant playing time, Ballard caught 38 passes for 604 yards and four touchdowns despite missing two games and being hampered down the stretch with a partially-torn posterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Ballard suffered a devastating blow when he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in the Super Bowl. The injury will likely sideline him for most if not all of the 2012 NFL season. Ballard has excellent size for a tight end. When healthy, despite not being terrible fast or quick, Ballard showed a real knack for getting open and making clutch plays in the passing game, including down the field. Ballard improved steadily as a blocker but could use greater consistency in that department.
CB BRUCE JOHNSON (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Johnson was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2011 after tearing his Achilles’ tendon in training camp. Johnson was also placed on Injured Reserve in early November 2010 after undergoing arthroscopic knee surgery. Johnson struggled in coverage during the 2010 preseason and did not play much on defense in the 2010 regular season before going on Injured Reserve. Johnson was originally signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2009 NFL Draft. He was a pleasant surprise as a rookie, playing in all 16 games with five starts, and finishing with 46 tackles, one sack, eight pass defenses, two interceptions, and two forced fumbles. Johnson lacks ideal size, but he is a fluid athlete with fine quickness.
WR DOMENIK HIXON (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Hixon was placed on Injured Reserve in September 2011 after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. Hixon tore the same ACL in June 2010 during a mini-camp. The knee injuries and his free agent status in 2012 put his future with the team in doubt. Hixon’s most productive season with the team as a receiver was in 2008 when he started seven games and caught 43 passes for 596 yards and two touchdowns. With the arrival of new receivers, he became less of a factor in 2009, catching 15 passes for 187 yards and one touchdown. Hixon was originally drafted by the Broncos in the 4th round of the 2006 NFL Draft. The Broncos cut him in October 2007 and the Giants immediately claimed him off of waivers. Hixon has good size. Before the knee injuries, he was a fast and smooth athlete with good hands. When healthy, Hixon is a dangerous punt and kickoff returner. He has five 40+ yard kickoff returns, including one touchdown, and three 40+ yard punt returns, including one touchdown.
TE RYAN PURVIS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Purvis as a street free agent in February 2012. Purvis was originally signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2009 NFL Draft. He spent his rookie season on Tampa Bay’s Practice Squad and was on the active roster for 10 games in 2010. He finished that season with five catches for 28 yards. The Buccaneers waived him before the 2011 season. Purvis is a versatile player who can play tight end, H-Back, and fullback. He has decent size, but he is not overly athletic. Purvis lacks the speed and quickness to stand out as a receiver. That said, he does have a good feel for getting open against zone coverage. He has good hands and runs tough after the catch. Purvis is more of a finesse, positional blocker than aggressive mauler. He is smart and hard working.
OC/OG CHRIS WHITE (Street Free Agent): White spent time with the Giants in training camp in 2011 and was re-signed in February 2012. White originally signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2005. Since that time, he has played with the Packers (2005-06), Texans (2006-09), and Seahawks (2010). In six NFL seasons, he has played in 33 games with eight starts. White lacks ideal size, but he is versatile with experience both at center and guard.
DE CRAIG MARSHALL (Street Free Agent): Marshall was signed by the Giants as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2011 NFL Draft. He was waived in the last round of cuts before the season and re-signed in February 2012. Marshall combines nice size and athleticism. He flashes as a pass rusher.
2011 FREE AGENT SIGNINGS
OT/OG TONY UGOH (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Ugoh in early Demcember 2011. Ugoh was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. The Colts liked Ugoh so much they actually gave up their 2008 1st round draft pick in order to move up in the draft to select him. From 2007-2009, Ugoh played in 37 regular-season games with the Colts with 27 starts, mostly at left tackle. Ugoh only started four games his last season with the Colts in 2009 and was demoted from the starting lineup. The Colts waived him in September 2010. The Lions signed him in December 2010, but waived him in August 2011. Ugoh played for the Las Vegas Locomotives of the United Football League in 2011. A very good athlete, Ugoh was a disappointment in Indianapolis. He was injury-prone and not regarded as a mentally-tough player.
LB CHASE BLACKBURN (Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants re-signed Blackburn in late November 2011 after choosing not to re-sign him before the season started when he was an unrestricted free agent. Blackburn was originally signed by the Giants as an undrafted free agent after the 2005 NFL Draft. In his six years with the Giants from 2005-2010, Blackburn played in 93 regular-season games with 17 starts, accruing 210 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 1 forced fumble. In 2010, Blackburn was strictly a special teams player, serving as the unit’s captain. Blackburn can play all three linebacker spots. A bit on the stiff side, Blackburn is not overly fast or quick. He’s a hard-working overachiever. Blackburn was elected first-alternate to the NFC’s Pro Bowl roster as a special teams player in 2008.
CB WILL BLACKMON (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Blackmon in late November 2011. Blackmon was originally drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the 4th round of the 2006 NFL Draft. Blackmon was waived by the Packers in 2010 after a couple of stints on Injured Reserve. The Giants signed him in October 2010 and he played in five games for New York before being placed on Injured Reserve with a knee injury. A decent punt returner, Blackmon has not impressed as a corner at the NFL level.
CB JUSTIN TRYON (Waived by the Indianapolis Colts): Tryon was originally drafted in in the 4th round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. Tryon was traded to the Indianapolis Colts in September 2010. The Colts surprisingly waived him in late September 2011. Tryon has played in 44 regular season games with 8 starts. In those games, he accrued 82 tackles, 1 sack, 10 pass defenses, and 1 interception. He also started in the 2010 AFC Wild Card game against the Jets and intercepted a pass in that game. Tryon lacks size, but he is an athletic corner with good quickness. He reacts well to the football and closes quickly. Tryon returned 14 kickoffs for the Colts in 2010 with a 21.4 yards per return average.
WR BRANDON STOKLEY (Unrestricted Free Agent from Seattle Seahawks): Stokley was originally drafted in the 4th round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. In his 12 seasons, Stokley has played for the Ravens (1999-2002), Colts (2003-06), Broncos (2007-09), and Seahawks (2010). In his prime, Stokley was a very good third receiver, slot receiver-type who ran good routes, had a knack for getting open, and had good hands. It remains to be seen how much he has left at age 35. In the 2010 regular season with the Seahawks, Stokley played in 11 games and caught 31 passes for 354 yards and 0 touchdowns. He played very well in Seattle’s two playoff games last season, catching 12 paaes for 158 yards and two touchdowns.
CB BRIAN WILLIAMS (Unrestricted Free Agent from Atlanta Falcons): Williams was originally drafted in the 4th round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. In his nine years in the NFL, Williams has played with the Vikings (2002-05), Jaguars (2006-08), and Falcons (2009-10). Williams has started 99 regular-season games and has accrued 407 tackles, 5 sacks, 61 pass defenses, and 19 interceptions, and 9 forced fumbles. Williams has good size for a corner and is very experienced. He is on the downside of his career and lacks ideal athleticism for a starter.
DT JIMMY KENNEDY (Waived by Minnesota Vikings): Jimmy Kennedy was signed by the Giants in August 2011. He was originally drafted in the 1st round of the 2003 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He has also spent time with the Broncos (2007), Bears (2007), Jaguars (2008), and Vikings (2008-10). The Vikings waived him July 2011. Kennedy combines good size and athleticism, but he has never lived up to his pre-draft hype. In eight NFL seasons, he has played in 86 games and accrued 125 tackles and 8.5 sacks. In 2010 with the Vikings, as a reserve, he had 8 tackles and 0.5 sacks.
PK RHYS LLOYD (Unrestricted Free Agent from Carolina Panthers): Rhys was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2005 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. Since that time, he has spent time with the Ravens, Packers, Panthers, and Vikings. For the past three seasons, Rhys has served as the Panthers kickoff specialist. 64 of Rhys’ 224 kickoffs have resulted in touchbacks (28.7 percent). Oddly, Rhys has never attempted a field goal or extra point at the pro level in a regular-season game.
S DEON GRANT (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Grant played more than expected in 2010 as the Giants heavily employed a three-safety package. He played more than the third linebacker and actually started eight games with Antrel Rolle and Kenny Phillips. Grant played in all 16 games and finished with 72 tackles, 1 sack, 10 pass defenses, 2 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Grant was originally drafted in the 2nd round of the 2000 NFL Draft by the Carolina Panthers. During free agency, he signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2004 and the Seattle Seahawks in 2007. The Seahawks released him in March 2010 and the Giants signed him the following month. Older with declining athletic skills, Grant is a solid, dependable, and consistent player with good size. He brings good leadership skills to the team and is well liked in the locker room.
S DERRICK MARTIN (Street Free Agent): Martin was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens traded Martin to the Green Bay Packers in September 2009. The Packers waived Martin in March 2011. Martin is a bit of safety/cornerback ‘tweener who struggled in coverage with the Packers. Martin has been somewhat injury-prone, missing time with injuries to his shoulder (2008), ankle (2009), and knee (2010). Martin is a good special teams player who finished second on Packers in special teams tackles in 2009.
TE DANIEL COATS (Waived by Denver Broncos): Coats was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2007 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. The Bengals waived Coats in October 2010 and he was then picked up by the Denver Broncos. The Broncos waived him in July 2011. In four NFL seasons, Coats has played in 57 games with 18 starts and caught 30 passes for 291 yards. Coats is a good blocker, but not much of a receiver. He drops a lot of passes. Versatile, he can play some fullback as well. Decent special teams player.
DE DAVE TOLLEFSON (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Tollefson performed decently as a valuable reserve in the Giants’ defensive line rotation in 2010. Before a knee injury sidelined him in December, he had played in 13 games and finished the season with 20 tackles, 0.5 sacks, 3 pass defenses, and 2 forced fumbles. Tollefson was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers and he spent his rookie season on Green Bay’s Practice Squad. The Oakland Raiders signed Tollefson in January 2007 and allocated him to NFL Europe. The Raiders waived him before the 2007 NFL season started and signed him to their Practice Squad. Tollefson was signed by the Giants off of the Raiders’ Practice Squad in October 2007. In four seasons with the Giants, Tollefson has played in 47 games (with no starts). While Tollefson is a decent athlete, he is not terribly explosive or disruptive on the football field. He’s more of a try-hard, back-up-type who will give you a solid day’s work. While he occasionally flashes, he is an ordinary run defender and pass rusher. Tollefson has good character and he plays well on special teams.
DT ROCKY BERNARD (Waived by New York Giants): Bernard improved as the Giants’ primary reserve defensive tackle in 2010 after a very disappointing inaugural season with the team in 2009. In 14 games (with no starts), Bernard finished 2010 with 18 tackles, 2 sacks, and 4 pass defenses. A disruptive player with the Seahawks (2002-2008), Bernard now is a steady, veteran presence who occasionally makes plays against the run and rushing the passer. Bernard has ordinary size for the position and he does not appear as quick and as athletic as he did earlier in his career.
OT/OG STACY ANDREWS (Waived by Seattle Seahawks): Andrews was originally drafted in the 4th round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2009, he signed with the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles traded Andrews to the Seattle Seahawks in September 2010. The Seahawks released him in July 2011. In seven NFL seasons, Andrews has played in 85 regular seasons games with 46 starts. He started 12 games for the Seahawks in 2010. Andrews is a huge man with some power to his game. Versatile, he can play either tackle or guard. Andrews played very well at right tackle for the Bengals from 2004-08, but did not stand out at guard for the Eagles or tackle or guard for the Seahawks.
HB ANDRE BROWN (Waived by Washington Redskins): Andre Brown was signed by the Giants in August 2011 after he was waived by the Washington Redskins. Brown was originally drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2009 NFL Draft. Brown missed all of 2009 with a torn Achilles tendon that he suffered in training camp. The Giants waived Brown in September 2010 before the season started. Since then, Brown has spent time with the Broncos, Colts, Panthers, and Redskins. But he has only played in four NFL games and only has had two rushing attempts. Brown has good size and flashed with the Giants in camp before he got injured in 2009. He is more of a north-south slasher who runs with some power. Brown has good hands.
DT GABE WATSON (Unrestricted Free Agent from Arizona Cardinals): Watson was originally drafted in the 4th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Cardinals. In five seasons, Watson has played in 62 regular season games with 21 starts. In his career, Watson has only 81 tackles and two sacks. Watson is a huge, strong player with decent athleticism for his size. However, he never lived up to expectations in Arizona with his last start coming in 2007 when he started all 16 games that season. Injuries affected his play in 2008 and 2009, but he also has had issues keeping his weight in check. Watson has ability, but he has to improve his focus and become more consistent.
WR MICHAEL CLAYTON (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): The Giants signed Clayton in late November 2010 when injuries hit the team’s wide receiving corps hard. Clayton played in six games for the Giants, but only had two receptions. Clayton was originally drafted in the 1st round of the 2004 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Buccaneers waived him in September 2010 before the season started. He then played for the UFL’s Omaha Nighthawks. In six seasons in Tampa, Clayton started 56 of the 84 games he played in, catching 221 passes for 2,936 yards and 10 touchdowns. However, after a stellar rookie season in 2004 (80 catches for 1,193 yards and 7 touchdowns), Clayton regularly disappointed in Tampa. He started 11 games in 2009, yet only caught 16 passes all season. Clayton has excellent size (6-4, 215lbs), but is not overly fast or quick. He does not play with much confidence and has inconsistent hands. Clayton is a very good blocker for a receiver.
TE BEN PATRICK (Unrestricted Free Agent from Arizona Cardinals): Patrick was drafted in the 7th round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Cardinals. In four seasons, Patrick has played in 42 regular season games with 20 starts and 45 catches for 446 yards and four touchdowns. Patrick has a nice combination of size and athleticism. He has good hands, but has been somewhat inconsistent. Patrick lacks ideal speed so he is not much of a vertical threat in the passing game. The strength of his game is blocking ability.
HB AHMAD BRADSHAW (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): It was an up-and-down year for Bradshaw who took over the starting halfback job in training camp and held it until Week 12 when he lost it due to fumbling issues. Bradshaw finished the season with 1,235 rushing yards on 276 carries (4.5 yards per carry) and 314 receiving yards on 47 receptions (6.7 yards per reception). Bradshaw had eight rushing touchdowns. However, he fumbled the ball 7 times (losing 6) and only twice in his last nine games did he average more than 4 yards per carry in a contest. The 323 touches was a huge increase in Bradshaw’s regular-season workload as he had 281 touches in his first three seasons combined. He underwent ankle surgery after the season to remove a bone spur in his left ankle. Bradshaw was drafted by the Giants in the 7th round of the 2007 NFL Draft, slipping despite a very productive collegiate career due to character concerns. While Bradshaw lacks ideal size, he runs with very good power for his size and is elusive runner with good vision, quickness, and speed. Bradshaw can catch the ball and return kickoffs and punts. There are durability concerns with Bradshaw due to ankle/feet issues that have plagued him and that have required multiple surgeries. He needs to do a better job of protecting the football.
QB DAVID CARR (Waived by the San Francisco 49ers): Carr was originally drafted as the very first pick in the 2002 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. The Texans waived Carr in March 2007. He was then signed by the Carolina Panthers, but the Panthers released him in February 2008. In 2008-09, Carr served as the Giants’ primary back-up and played well in limited mop-up action. Carr signed with the 49ers after the 2009 season. He only played in one game with the 49ers. In nine seasons, Carr has started 79 games with 65 touchdowns and 71 interceptions, completing almost 60 percent of his passes. Carr has all of the tools (size, athletic, strong arm), but he was a major disappointment in Houston and Carolina. His confidence and performance improved sitting behind Eli Manning for two seasons. Carr can appear indecisive at times and hold onto the ball too long.
OC/OG CHRIS WHITE (Waived by Seattle Seahawks): White originally signed with the Green Bay Packers as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2005. Since that time, he has played with the Packers (2005-06), Texans (2006-09), and Seahawks (2010). In six NFL seasons, he has played in 33 games, starting eight (with the eight starts being with the Texans in 2009). White has experience at both center and guard.
TE CHRISTIAN HOPKINS (Street Free Agent): After playing collegiate for Toledo from 2004-07, Hopkins spent 2009-10 with the UFL for the New York Sentinels and Omaha Nighthawks.
P STEVE WEATHERFORD (Unrestricted Free Agent from New York Jets): Weatherford originally signed by the Saints as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2006. In five NFL seasons, he has played for the Saints (2006-08), Chiefs (2008), Jaguars (2008), and Jets (2009-2010). In 2010, Weatherford tied an NFL regular-season record by placing 42 punts inside the opponents’ 20-yard line. He averaged 42.6 yards per punt (38.1 yards net).
TE/FB BEAR PASCOE (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): It was a strange season for Pascoe, who started off training camp/preseason at tight end, but was then moved to fullback during the regular season when Madison Hedgecock got hurt. Pascoe actually started the season on the Practice Squad, but was signed to the 53-man roster in mid-September 2010. In all, Pascoe played in 15 games, starting 11, and finished the season with nine catches for 72 yards. Pascoe was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft. The 49ers waived him before the season started and the Giants then signed him to their Practice Squad. The Giants added him to the 53-man roster in December 2009. Pascoe is strong, but he is not overly athletic. He lacks the speed and agility to separate from defenders and threaten a defense as a receiver. He did not block particularly well as a tight end in 2010, but performed much better in that department as a fullback. However, he still was too inconsistent as a move blocker and his tall height does work against him in terms of getting leverage against an opponent as a fullback. It remains to be seen where the Giants will play him in 2011. He may remain a jack-of-all-trades type who does not really excel at any one thing.
OL JAMON MEREDITH (Re-Signed Exclusive Rights Free Agent): The Giants claimed Meredith off of waivers from the Detroit Lions in October 2010. Meredith was originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. The Buffalo Bills signed him off of the Packers’ Practice Squad in September 2009. Meredith was waived by the Bills in September 2010 and then claimed by the Lions. Meredith combines good size, long arms, and athletic ability. Versatile, he can play either tackle or guard spot. A finesse player, Meredith is not really a mauler and he needs to improve his strength, toughness, intensity, and work ethic.
DE/LB MATHIAS KIWANUKA (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Kiwanuka started off the season on fire until a serious neck injury (herniated cervical disc ) ended his season in September. In three games, playing chiefly as a reserve, Kiwanuka accrued 11 tackles, 4 sacks, and a forced fumble. Kiwanuka’s tenure with the Giants has not been terribly smooth. Drafted by the Giants in the 1st round of the 2006 NFL Draft, Kiwanuka was moved from defensive end to linebacker in 2007 in order to get him on the field more. However, his season was cut short when he suffered a fractured fibula and ligament damage in an ankle in November 2007. In 2008, with Osi Umenyiora lost for the season, Kiwanuka started all 16 games at right end and finished with 51 tackles and 8 sacks. In 2009, with Umenyiora back, Kiwanuka was once again a reserve until the Giants benched Umenyiora for the last five games of the season. However, Kiwanuka only had 3 sacks that season. Kiwanuka combines excellent athleticism and size. He is tall with long arms and is quick, fast, and agile. Kiwanuka is a decent run defender. He flashes as a pass rusher, but has not generated the consistent pass rush or sack numbers that were expected of him. Kiwanuka is smart and hard working. His football future is clouded by the neck injury. It is hoped that injury will heal without surgery.
OC/OG DAVID BAAS (Unrestricted Free Agent from San Francisco 49ers): Baas was originally drafted by the 49ers in the 2nd round of the 2005 NFL Draft. Baas was a highly regarded collegiate center at Michigan. After an inconsistent, injury-plagued start to his career, Baas began to improve dramatically at left guard in 2009 and center in 2010 for the 49ers. In both 2009 and 2010, he was named the 49ers’ top offensive lineman, starting all 32 games. Baas has excellent size and strength. He’s a good athlete and can pull and block at the second level. Baas is tough, smart, competitive, and plays with a nasty attitude.
OG/OC KEVIN BOOTHE (Re-Signed Unrestricted Free Agent): Boothe tore his pectoral muscle in a weight-lifting accident in May 2010, missed all of training camp and the preseason, and started the first eight games of the regular season on the Physically-Unable-to-Perform (PUP) List. But when Boothe returned, despite his rustiness, he was surprisingly effective in five straight starts at left guard. Boothe was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Raiders and started 14 games for Oakland at right guard as a rookie. The Raiders cut him in September 2007 and the Giants immediately claimed him off of waivers. Before 2010, in his first three years with the Giants, Boothe only started two games. Boothe is a big, powerful player with long arms who can create movement at the point-of-attack. Not overly agile or quick, Boothe is not as adept when pulling. In pass protection, he struggles at times with speed and quickness. A versatile player, Boothe can play both guard spots, right tackle, and even center in an emergency – the latter being something he did in the regular-season finale against the Redskins.
WR/HB DARIUS REYNAUD (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Reynaud was acquired by the Giants in a trade with the Minnesota Vikings in September 2010, mainly for his return skills. However, Reynaud disappointed as a returner, averaging 18.4 yards per kickoff return and 5.7 yards per punt return. He played in nine games and did not catch a pass either. Reynaud was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2008 NFL Draft. The Vikings converted him from wide receiver to running back. The Giants moved him back to wide receiver. With the Vikings, Reynaud played in three games as a rookie and 11 in 2009. In 2009, he returned 30 punts for a 10.3 yards-per-return average, but he also fumbled the ball three times. Reynaud isn’t very big, but he is well-built with good speed and quickness. He needs a lot of work as a receiver.
WR DOMENIK HIXON (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Hixon was placed on Injured Reserve in July 2010 with a season-ending ACL injury to his right knee that he suffered during the June mini-camp. In 2009, Hixon fell on the depth chart with the development of Mario Manningham and the arrival of Hakeem Nicks. But Hixon remained an important role player on offense and special teams contributor. In 2009, Hixon played in 14 games, starting two, but finished the season with only 15 catches for 187 yards and one touchdown. This was a year after he started seven games and caught 43 passes for 596 yards. In 2009, Hixon not only served on special teams coverage units, but he was the Giants’ primary returner on punts (15.1 yards per return) and kickoffs (22.6 yards per return). Hixon was originally drafted by the Broncos in the 4th round of the 2006 NFL Draft. The Broncos cut him in October 2007 and the Giants immediately claimed him off of waivers. Hixon has good size. He is a fast and smooth athlete with good hands. A hard worker with an upside, Hixon is still learning the pro game as a receiver. Hixon is a dangerous punt and kickoff returner. He has five 40+ yard kickoff returns, including one touchdown, and three 40+ yard punt returns, including one touchdown, in his career already.
HB D.J. WARE (Re-Signed Restricted Free Agent): Ware was surprisingly underutilized in 2010. Ware played in 14 games, but only had 20 carries for 73 yards (3.7 yards per carry) and seven receptions for 67 yards. Ware was expected to be much more of a contributor in 2009 as well, but injuries (dislocated elbow and a concussion) caused him to miss half that season. Ware was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Tennessee Titans after the 2007 NFL Draft. After the Titans waived him before training camp that year, the Jets claimed him. Ware was signed by the Giants off of the Jets’ Practice Squad in December 2007. Ware has a nice combination of size and athleticism, and has flashed an ability to run with vision and power. Ware has improved his blitz pick-ups and he can catch the football. He can also return kickoffs.
QB RYAN PERRILLOUX (Street Free Agent): Perrilloux was signed by the Giants in January 2010. Eligible for the draft in 2011, Perrilloux went undrafted and played for the Hartford Colonials of the United Football League (UFL) in 2010. His head coach was former Giants’ Quarterback Coach Chris Palmer. In eight games, Perrilloux completed 33 of 69 passes for 394 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. Perrilloux was a very highly rated high school quarterback who ran into off-the-field issues in college. Perrilloux lacks ideal height, but he is a very athletic player with a quick release and a strong arm. He can make all of the different kinds of throws an NFL quarterback needs to make. However, he needs a lot of technique work in order to become a consistently accurate thrower. Perrilloux can also make plays with his feet. Sometimes he relies too much on his scrambling ability, needing to stick with the play in the pocket. Perrilloux has a huge upside, but he also has serious character concerns given his checkered past.
HB MARTELL MALLETT (Street Free Agent): Mallett was signed by the Giants in January 2011. Mallett was originally signed by the Eagles in January 2010 after he was named the CFL’s “Most Outstanding Rookie” for 2009 when he played for the BC Lions. He did not make the Eagles’ 53-man roster, but spent time on the Eagles’ and Browns’ practice squads in 2010. As a rookie in the CFL, Mallett rushed 214 times for 1,240 yards (5.8 yards per carry) and six touchdowns. He also caught 43 passes for 342 yards and two touchdowns.
WR TODD WATKINS (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Watkins in January 2011. Watkins was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. He has spent time with the Cardinals (2006 Practice Squad), Atlanta Falcons (2007 Practice Squad), and Oakland Raiders (2008-09). In two seasons with the Raiders, Watkins played in 21 games, starting one. His only career receptions came in 2009 with eight catches for 90 yards. The Raiders cut him shortly before the 2010 season started. Watkins is a tall, thin receiver with very good speed. He is not overly quick but he has the speed to threaten a defense deep. However, he has a reputation for not being very tough or focused. Too inconsistent.
OG/OT IKE NDUKWE (Street Free Agent): Ndukwe was signed by the Giants in January 2011. He was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Saints after the 2005 NFL Draft. Ndukwe has spent time with the Saints (2005 Practice Squad), Redskins (2005-06), Ravens (2006-07), Dolphins (2007-08), and Chiefs (2009-10). The Chiefs waived Ndukwe before the 2010 season started. In 2008 and 2009, for the Dolphins and Chiefs, he played in 28 games, starting 18. Ndukwe has good size but he’s been more ideally suited for a reserve, swingman-type role in the NFL.
CB JOE BURNETT (Street Free Agent): The Giants signed Burnett in January 2011. Burnett was originally drafted in the 5th round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. He made the team in 2009, and although he played primarily on special teams, he did see some action in the nickel his rookie season. The Steelers waived him shortly before the start of the 2010 season. Burnett lacks ideal height and speed, but he is well built and a decent athlete. Instinctive, in college he had a knack for making plays on the football. Burnett has good ball skills and hands. He is better suited to zone coverage. He is tough and competitive. Burnett was a very dangerous kick and punt returner in college.
S/CB CARY HARRIS (Street Free Agent): Harris was signed by the Giants in January 2011. Harris was originally drafted in the 6th round of the 2009 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. He spent time on both the Bills’ Practice Squad and 53-man roster his rookie season. He ended up playing in four games in 2009, with one start at safety, and intercepted two passes. Harris played in two games in 2010, but the Bills waived him in October 2010 and he then spent time on the Vikings’ and Bengals’ practice squads. Harris is a bit of a cornerback-safety ‘tweener. While athletic and quick, he lacks the size one looks for in a safety and the speed one looks for in a corner. Instinctive, physical, and aggressive. Harris will play the run but he needs to become a more consistent tackler.
HB CHARLES SCOTT (2010 Practice Squad): Scott s pent 2010 on the Giants’ Practice Squad. Scott was originally drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the 6th round of the 2010 NFL Draft. The Eagles traded Scott to the Arizona Cardinals during training camp, but the Cardinals cut him in early September. Scott is a big, physical running back who runs with power. While he is not overly fast, Scott is a good athlete. He has good balance, agility, and quickness for a big back. Scott needs work on his blitz pickups and catching the ball out of the backfield.
WR SAMUEL GIGUERE (2010 Practice Squad): The Giants signed Giguere to the Practice Squad in October 2010. Giguere originally signed with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2008 NFL Draft. He spent the 2008 season on the Colts’ Practice Squad, and was on the Practice Squad again in 2009 until the Colts added him to the 53-man roster before the regular-season finale. The Colts waived Giguere in September 2010. Giguere has a nice combination of size, speed, and quickness. He also has experience in the return game.
OC JIM CORDLE (2010 Practice Squad): Cordle spent the season on the Giants’ Practice Squad. The Buccaneers tried to sign him off the Practice Squad in December, but Cordle chose to remain with the Giants. Cordle was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. Cordle is a versatile lineman who played four different offensive line positions in college. Cordle has good size, but he needs to get bigger and stronger. Smart.
DE AYANGA OKPOKOWURUK (2010 Practice Squad): Okpokowuruk spent some time on the Giants’ Practice Squad late in the season. Okpokowuruk was originally signed by the Giants as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2010 NFL Draft. The Giants waived him in late July. Okpokowuruk lacks ideal size, but he is a good athlete with fine strength. Plays hard. Okpokowuruk needs to play with better leverage and shed blocks more quickly.
DT DWAYNE HENDRICKS (2010 Practice Squad): Hendricks was added to the Giants’ Practice Squad in November 2010. He also spent time on the Giants’ Practice Squad in 2009. The Giants originally signed him as a rookie free agent after the 2009 NFL Draft, but waived him in June 2009 before training camp started. Hendricks is the classic “looks like Tarzan, plays like Jane” prospect. He has good size and athleticism. Hendricks is quick and agile for his size. However, he was too often easily blocked and not very productive on the playing field at the University of Miami.
LB KENNY INGRAM (2010 Practice Squad): Ingram was added to the Practice Squad in December 2010. The Giants originally signed Ingram as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2009 NFL Draft. He did not make the team but was added to the Practice Squad in December 2009. The Giants waived him in July 2010. He then played for the Hartford Colonials in the UFL. In college at Florida State, Ingram played at both safety (hybrid rover) and linebacker. Ingram is very tall and a good athlete.
CB WOODNY TURENNE (2010 Practice Squad): The Giants signed Turenne to the Practice Squad in November 2010. Turenne was originally signed as an undrafted rookie free agent by the Chicago Bears after the 2009 NFL Draft. He spent time both on the Bears’ Practice Squad and 53-man roster. The Bears waived/injured Turenne in September 2010 before the season started. Turenne is a good athlete with fine quickness and speed. He plays a physical game and can play bump-and-run. Turenne will hit and tackle.
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