May 23, 2013

by Eric from BigBlueInteractive.com ^[1]

Quarterbacks:

The Giants’ most important player, Eli Manning, did not play as well in 2012 as he did in 2011. In 2011, Manning finished the regular season with a 61 percent completion average, 4,933 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions. Manning finished 2012 with a 59.9 percent completion average, 3,948 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 15 interceptions. Other than yardage, the numbers were not all that different. However, in 2011, Manning led the Giants to seven come-from-behind 4th quarter victories, including two in the playoffs. That late-game magic was not as apparent in 2012. And there were several games where the passing game (and offense) really struggled, particularly in the second half of the season. That was not all on Manning, but Manning simply did not look as sharp. Unlike 2011, he did not play like a top five quarterback in 2012. Regardless, Manning is probably the best quarterback the Giants have had in their long and storied history. He is a two-time Super Bowl MVP, and when he is on his game, one of the most clutch performers in the NFL. Physically, Manning has excellent size and a strong arm. He is extremely tough and has never missed a game. Manning can make all the different kinds of throws. He is a 60+ completion percentage quarterback in a vertical passing offense. As important as his physical skills are, Manning excels in the mental aspects of the game. He has the perfect temperament for playing in the New York metropolitan area as the intense media spotlight does not seem to faze him. He is very smart and hard-working. Manning reads opposing defenses extremely well. The coaching staff trusts him to make complicated pre-snap reads for both the running and passing games. On the negative side, Manning is still sometimes guilty of making the ill-advised, head-scratching throw when the smarter decision would be to throw the football away or take the sack. His gun-slinger mentality also causes him to make some risky throws in tight windows. Manning was voted to the Pro Bowl in 2008 and 2011, and played in the game in 2012 as a second alternate.

David 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.

Ryan Nassib was drafted in the 4th round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Nassib lacks ideal height and mobility, but he is a well-built quarterback with a good (not great) arm. He is very smart and has the mental capacity to handle a complicated pro passing offense – Nassib played in two pro style offenses in college. Nassib is also mentally and physically tough. Nassib can make all of the NFL throws. He demonstrates good velocity, touch, and accuracy on his passes. He does need to improve his overall footwork, and accuracy on deep passes. Nassib has very good intangibles – mature, hardworking, confident, and competitive. He is a clutch player who has a history of winning games on the last drive. Football is extremely important to him. A leader on the field.

The Giants signed Curtis 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.

Halfbacks:

Andre 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.

As a 21-year old rookie, David Wilson did not see the field on offense as much as expected in 2012. He did not see double-digit carries until December and finished the season with 358 yards and four touchdowns on 71 carries (5.0 yards per carry). He only caught four passes for 34 yards and a touchdown. Most of Wilson’s damage came on special teams where he set a team record with 1,533 kickoff return yards, averaging 26.9 yards per return. Wilson is an explosive, big-play threat. Wilson lacks ideal size and isn’t built for heavy-duty service, but he is a well-built back who is strong for his stature. He is a hard runner who can break tackles and finish runs with his powerful legs. He does not appear to be a strong short-yardage runner. Wilson is very athletic with very good speed, quickness, and acceleration. He runs with good pad level, has very good balance, and is elusive. Wilson has had some fumbling issues in his career and he needs to continue to learn and improve his pass protection. He catches the ball well. Wilson is obviously a dynamic kickoff returner.

Da’Rel Scott was placed on Injured Reserve in October 2012 after undergoing arthroscopic surgery to repair the meniscus in his right knee. Scott played in four games, but only carried the football six times for nine yards. Scott also only saw very limited action in 2011 after being drafted in the 7th round of the 2011 Draft by the Giants. Scott has decent size. He is very fast and is a threat to break a big play every time he touches the ball. However, it remains to be seen if Scott has the instincts, toughness, elusiveness, and power to succeed at the NFL level on a consistent basis.

The Giants signed Ryan 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.

Michael Cox was drafted in the 7th round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Michigan transfer. Cox is a big, strong back with decent speed and elusiveness. He catches the ball well.

Jeremy Wright was signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2013 NFL Draft. Wright lacks ideal size but he has good speed. He catches the football very well out of the backfield. Wright has experience as a return specialist.

Fullbacks:

Henry Hynoski is developing into one of the NFL’s better fullbacks. In 2012, he played in all 16 games. The strength of his game is his run blocking. He’s a big, strong, aggressive, and physical fullback with the right temperament for the position. Hynoski is not used much as a runner or receiver though in 2012 he did have five carries for 20 yards and also caught 11 passes for 50 yards and a touchdown. Hynoski does have good hands as a receiver. He’s a bit stiff and straight-linish as an athlete in the open field.

Wide Receivers:

Victor Cruz had another strong season in 2012, though it was not quite as spectacular as his Cinderella-like season in 2011. Cruz finished 2012 with 86 catches for 1,092 yards and 10 touchdowns. In 2011, he caught 82 passes for 1,536 yards and nine touchdowns. The big difference was his yards-per-catch average fell from 18.7 to 12.7. Some of this had to do with Cruz receiving more much more double-team attention due to Hakeem Nicks’ injury-plagued season, but Cruz also did not break off as many big plays as he did in 2011. Cruz was voted to his first Pro Bowl in 2012 after being named second-alternate in 2011. Cruz has ordinary size and timed speed. However, he has very good quickness and plays faster than he times. Cruz reads coverages well, runs good routes, and has a good understanding of how to get open against both zone and man coverage. Cruz has good hands and is capable of making the circus catch, though he sometimes will drop the easy reception. He is elusive after the catch and usually isn’t caught from behind. Cruz is a hard worker. He can play outside, but has really developed into one of the NFL’s better slot receivers.

Hakeem Nicks had a year to forget in 2012. He broke his right foot during non-contact OTA drills in May. The injury required surgery and sidelined Nicks for all of training camp and the preseason. When he returned on opening day, it was obvious that Nicks was nowhere near 100 percent. Despite that fact, in Week 2, the still-hobbling Nicks had his best game of the year, catching 10 passes for 199 yards and a touchdown, but also suffered a serious left knee injury. The new injury, which he said after the season was a tear, not only caused him to miss the next three games, but more importantly, seriously limited him physically for the remainder of the season. Nicks never regained his movement skills, missed most team practices, and often disappeared on the playing field. In hindsight, the Giants should have forced Nicks to rest the knee more before he came back. Nicks finished 2012 with 53 catches for 692 yards and three touchdowns. This was after catching 155 passes for 2,244 yards, and 18 touchdowns in the 2010-11 regular seasons (despite missing four games) and another 28 passes for 444 yards and four touchdowns in the 2011 playoffs. When healthy, Nicks has a nice combination of size, strength, and athletic ability. He has long arms and big hands. While not a burner, Nicks plays faster than he times and can make big plays down the field. Nicks adjusts well to the football and attacks the ball when it is in the air. Although guilty of some drops, Nicks is a natural pass-catcher and he can make the circus catch. He is not afraid to run over the middle and he is elusive after the catch. Nicks is a very confident player with All-Pro ability. His biggest negative is that he has proven to be injury prone, missing games in each of his first four seasons in the NFL.

As a 21-year old rookie drafted in the second round, Rueben Randle did not play as much as anticipated and finished the season with only 19 catches for 298 yards and three touchdowns. But his future looks bright as he has a nice combination of size and athletic ability, and he flashed the ability to be a big-time play-maker. While Randle is not a burner, he is a fluid and smooth receiver with good foot quickness and acceleration for a big receiver. Randle can get off press coverage and he can threaten a defense vertically down the field. Like most young receivers, he needs to improve his route-running. Randle adjusts well to the football in the air and has very good hands.

Jerrel Jernigan was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Giants and has not done much in two seasons. Jernigan had no catches in 2011 and only had three catches for 22 yards in 2012 (plus one rushing attempt for six yards). Jernigan has returned 10 kickoffs for a 24.6 yards-per-return average in two seasons. Jernigan lacks size, but he is a quick, fluid athlete. In college, Jernigan was an extremely productive receiver who was dangerous with the football after the catch.

Louis 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.

Drafted in 3rd round of the 2009 NFL Draft, Ramses Barden has been a disappointment. In four seasons, Barden has only had 29 receptions for 394 yards and no touchdowns. His best game as a pro came in Week 3 of the 2012 season, when he started against the Panthers and caught nine passes for 138 yards. But he only had five catches the rest of the season. Barden is a huge, athletic receiver with long arms and big hands. Because he is such a big receiver, Barden lacks ideal speed and quickness and may have difficulty separating from pro-level defenders. He has good hands, but sometimes will drop an easy catch.

The Giants signed Brandon 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.

The Giants signed Kevin 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.

The Giants signed Kris 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.

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.

Tight Ends/H-Backs:

Brandon 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.

Bear 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.

2012 was mainly a redshirt year for Adrien Robinson, who the Giants drafted in the 4th round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Robinson made the 53-man roster, but was only activated for two games. He did not catch a single pass. Robinson combines good size with excellent athleticism. He has very good speed and agility for a big tight end. However, he is a very raw player who will need a lot of coaching up. He was not targeted much in college (only 29 receptions in four years), but he displayed an ability to get down the field, adjust to the football, and make the difficult catch. Robinson has the physical ability to be a good blocker.

Larry Donnell went undrafted and unsigned in 2011. The Giants signed him as a street free agent in March 2012 and Donnell spent 2012 on the Giants’ Practice Squad. Donnell has excellent size and is a good athlete. However, he is raw and needs a lot of coaching.

The Giants signed Jamie 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.

Morgan Newton was an undrafted rookie free agent signed by the Giants in May 2013. Newton played quarterback for most of his career at the University of Kentucky before switching to tight end early in his final season. He did not catch any passes as a senior.

Offensive Tackles:

Will 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.

David Diehl’s long run with the Giants may be coming to a close. For the bulk of his career, Diehl has been a versatile, overachieving rock on the Giants’ offensive line. In his 10 years with the Giants, Diehl has started at both tackle and guard spots. In 2012, Diehl started the season at right tackle, but suffered a knee injury (MCL) in Week 2 and didn’t regain his starting position until Week 9. Diehl then suffered a shoulder injury in Week 12, but returned to right tackle for the rest of the season in Week 13 after Sean Locklear tore his knee. Once the ironman of the team, Diehl has suffered significant injuries the last few years, including a torn hamstring in 2010, a fractured hand in 2011, and the knee and shoulder injuries last season. Never an overly athletic player, Diehl turns 33 in 2013 and is reaching the point of his career where his diminishing athletic skills are affecting his ability to pass protect quick outside pass rushers. The problem for Diehl is that he has always seemed more natural at tackle than guard. Diehl is a big, strong, smart, and aggressive lineman with long arms. He still is a serviceable run blocker.

James Brewer was drafted in the 4th round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Giants. While Brewer made the 53-man roster, he did not play in 2011. He played in eight games in 2012, but did not start. Brewer combines excellent size, arm length, and overall athleticism. He is a somewhat raw player who has not played much football. He started 12 games as a junior and 9 games as a senior at right tackle (missing three games with an ankle injury). Brewer is very light on his feet and has the tools to develop into a good pass blocker. He needs experience that will only come from playing time.

Justin Pugh was drafted by the Giants in the 1st round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Pugh has a nice combination of size and athleticism, although he lacks ideal arm length for a tackle. Pugh has the quick feet and fluidity to play left tackle, but he is versatile enough to play any of the five offensive line positions. He is more of a technician and position blocker than mauler, but Pugh is a very good technician with little wasted movement. Consistent and efficient. He plays with very good leverage. Pugh is very solid in pass protection and will surprise defenders with his strong hands. His mobility allows him to effectively block defenders at the second level – Pugh can pull, trap, and block on screen plays. Pugh is extremely smart, competitive, and hardworking. Unlike most rookies, Pugh could press for a starting job right away. He should get bigger and stronger in an NFL training program.

Brandon Mosley was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2012 with an ankle injury. Mosley was drafted by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Mosley has good size and size potential. A former tight end, he also is a good athlete. With only two years of experience on the offensive line in college, he is still learning to play the position and could take some time to develop. He has the tools and demeanor to become a good player. The Giants have also had Mosley play guard in training camp and the preseason.

Matt McCants was selected by the Giants in the 6th round of the 2012 NFL Draft and spent most of the year on the Giants’ Practice Squad. He played both right and left tackle in the 2012 preseason and really struggled at right tackle. McCants is a big, athletic lineman with very long arms. He needs to fill out and get stronger. McCants flashes ability but needs to become much more consistent. Raw – he needs a lot of technique work. He is a project but has an upside.

Offensive Guards:

Despite the fact that he was voted to his fourth Pro Bowl in 2012, Chris Snee has had two down seasons in a row for the Giants. In 2011, he was bothered by an elbow injury that required offseason arthroscopic surgery. In 2012, he was bothered much of the season by a partially-torn hip labrum and bone spurs in his hip. Despite the fact that he has only missed one game since becoming the starter at right guard in 2004, his recent injury history and the two subpar seasons may suggest his best days are behind him. When on top of his game, Snee is a strong, physical run blocker who gets movement at the point-of-attack. Snee is also athletic enough to pull and engage linebackers at the second level. He is a very solid pass protector, but he occasionally will get beat by quickness.

In 2012, Kevin 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.

While Selvish Capers spent most of 2012 on the Practice Squad, he also spent some time on the 53-man roster and was activated for three games. Capers was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He was on the Redskins’ Practice Squad in 2010 and the Giants’ Practice Squad in 2011. Capers is an athletic lineman with good quickness and mobility.

Stephen Goodin was signed as a rookie free agent by the Giants after the 2012 NFL Draft. He did not make the team but spent time on the Giants’ Practice Squad. A former tight end in high school, Goodin has collegiate experience at both left guard and left tackle. Goodin has a nice combination of size, strength, and athleticism.

Eric Herman was drafted in the 7th round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Michigan transfer. Cox is a big, strong back with decent speed and elusiveness. Herman is a big, strong mauler who is a better run blocker than pass blocker. He lacks ideal athleticism and arm length. Herman can overpower opposing defenders, but he sometimes struggles with quickness and speed. Aggressive, physical, and competitive. Herman is a better in-line blocker than space player – not great at pulling or getting to the second level. Hard worker who could develop into a solid right guard.

The Giants signed Michael 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 overly instinctive football player. Jasper could project to defensive tackle.

The Giants signed Bryant 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.

The Giants signed Chris 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.

Offensive Centers:

David Baas was signed as a high-priced free agent by the Giants in 2011, but has struggled with injuries since he arrived. In 2011, he missed five games with neck, knee, and migraine issues. In 2012, he started all 16 games but his play was negatively impacted by hand, ankle, elbow, hip, and shoulder issues. Baas was originally drafted by the 49ers in the 2nd round of the 2005 NFL Draft. In both 2009 (left guard) and 2010 (center), he was named the 49ers’ top offensive lineman, starting all 32 games. Baas is a big, strong lineman with decent overall athleticism. Baas is tough, smart, competitive, and can play with a nasty attitude. His biggest problem is he can’t seem to stay healthy and that reduces his effectiveness as a player.

Jim 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.

Defensive Ends:

Jason Pierre-Paul had a solid season and was voted to his second Pro Bowl, but his sack numbers declined from 16.5 in 2011 to 6.5 in 2012. More troubling was that he did not register a sack during the last seven games of the season. Pierre-Paul’s overall tackle total also declined from 86 to 66, though he did pick off one pass that he returned for a touchdown. Pierre-Paul has an excellent combination of size, strength, and athleticism. An explosive and disruptive player, Pierre-Paul is fast, quick, and agile. His tremendous wingspan helps him to bat passes down at the line of scrimmage. Pierre-Paul is also athletic enough to drop into coverage. As a pass rusher, he can beat blockers with both power and movement skills. However, he would become a more productive pass rusher if he would improve his initial quickness off the snap (he’s often the last lineman to move). Pierre-Paul is a very good run defender both at the point-of-attack as well as in backside pursuit. In order for him to reach the next level, Pierre-Paul must learn how to deal with double teams on a consistent basis.

Justin Tuck has had two down seasons in a row, raising questions whether injuries have taken their toll on his game or whether his heart is still in football. Tuck had double-digit sack totals in 2007 (as a reserve), 2008 (Pro Bowl), and 2010 (Pro Bowl). But injuries, especially in the shoulder/neck areas, seriously affected his play in 2009 and 2011. And the shoulder was causing him to miss practices and one game at the end of 2012 as well. Despite starting 14 games, Tuck finished the season with only four sacks, his lowest figure since 2006. Tuck has an excellent combination of size, strength, and athleticism. In his prime, when healthy, Tuck was a very good two-way player who could rush the passer and stuff the run. However, not only has his pass rush productivity declined, but Tuck has not been as stout against the run the last couple of seasons. Tuck appears to be a reluctant team leader and somewhat moody.

Since he was drafted in the 1st round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Giants, Mathias Kiwanuka has split his time between defensive end and linebacker. He played primarily defensive end in 2006 and 2008-09, and he played primarily linebacker in 2007 and 2010-12. For the last three seasons, under Defensive Coordinator Perry Fewell, Kiwanuka has played a hybrid linebacker/defensive end “joker” role – starting at linebacker but often also being rushed from a down position in obvious pass rushing situations. In 2012, Kiwanuka played in all 16 regular-season games, starting five, and finished with 37 tackles and three sacks. Kiwanuka’s tackle number was way down from a career-high 84 in 2011. Kiwanuka has had two major injuries with the Giants. In November 2007, he suffered a fractured fibula and ligament damaged in an ankle. In September 2010, a potentially career-threatening neck injury (herniated cervical disc) ended his season. Kiwanuka combines very good size and overall athleticism. However, his size, agility, and speed are probably better suited to defensive end where he seems more natural. As a linebacker, his size and strength make him a good run defender, but he can still be exposed in pass coverage. Kiwanuka flashes as a pass rusher but has only averaged 4.3 sacks per season.

Adrian 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.

Adewale Ojomo was signed as a rookie free agent after the 2012 NFL Draft. Ojomo was the surprise of the preseason as he accrued four sacks and made the 53-man roster. He was only active for one game in 2012. Ojomo has a nice combination of size and athletic ability. He is a confident player who seems to have a knack for rushing the passer even though he was not productive in doing so at the collegiate level.

Justin 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.

Matt Broha was signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2012 NFL Draft. He spent the season on the team’s Practice Squad. Broha has a nice combination of size and athleticism. He plays hard and flashed during the 2012 preseason as a pass rusher.

Damontre Moore was drafted in the 3rd round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Moore lacks ideal size and timed speed, but he is an athletic disruptor who plays hard and makes a lot of plays in the backfield. He has good first-step quickness, agility, and change-of-direction skills. Moore has very long arms. Moore is a better pass rusher than run defender. Relentless getting after the quarterback, but he can be handled at the point-of-attack on running plays. He needs to get stronger and add some bulk – still growing into his body. He tested and interviewed very poorly at the NFL Combine, but the production was there on gameday. Moore has some character concerns, including a drug possession charge. He needs to improve his off-the-field work ethic and commitment to the game. Moore has the tools to become a very good player if he wants it.

Defensive Tackles:

Linval Joseph started every game in 2012 and finished the season with 59 tackles, four sacks, and one forced fumble. His numbers were up from 2011, but like everyone on the defensive line, he did not play as well as expected. Joseph has an excellent combination of size, strength, and athletic ability. He is very strong and, when at his best, difficult to move off of the line of scrimmage on running plays. Joseph has decent quickness for a big man and flashes on occasion as a pass rusher. He has the ability be better than he did in 2012.

Cullen 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.

Mike 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.

Johnathan Hankins was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Hankins is a big, strong, run-stuffing defensive tackle with good athletic ability and agility for his size. He is a better run defender than pass rusher. Hankins is very stout at the point-of-attack and can take on double-team blocks. When he plays with leverage and proper technique, Hankins is very difficult to move off of the line of scrimmage. Hankins also has the athletic ability to pursue down the line and will flash occasionally on the pass rush with quickness and power. He has good lateral agility and even dropped into coverage at times in college. The biggest knock on Hankins is his inconsistency. At times, he dominated in college; at other times, he disappeared from the action. However, he played a lot of snaps in each game and wore down. He should perform more consistently in a rotation and with better conditioning. When not out of gas, Hankins plays hard. Hankins has the tools (size, strength, power, quickness) to excel at the NFL level if he wants it badly enough.

Shaun 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.

Markus Kuhn was an active member of the defensive tackle rotation before tearing the ACL in one of his knees. He was placed on Injured Reserve in November 2012. Kuhn played in 10 games with one start and finished the season with eight tackles and four pass defenses. Kuhn was selected by the Giants in the 7th round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Kuhn was born in Germany and was only a one-year starter in college. He has a nice combination of size and athletic ability. Kuhn is a high-energy effort player who can be disruptive with his quickness and intensity. Kuhn is a better run defender than pass rusher.

The Giants have not received much in return from Marvin Austin ever since drafting him in the 2nd round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Austin missed his last season in college due to an NCAA violation. Austin then missed his second football season in a row when the Giants placed him on Injured Reserve in August 2011 after he tore his pectoral muscle. In 2012, Austin fell to fifth on the defensive tackle depth chart, behind 7th round rookie Markus Kuhn. Austin ended up playing in eight games, but only saw limited time at defensive tackle and finished the season with only eight tackles. Austin has good tools to work with. Although he lacks ideal height, he is a very athletic tackle with fine size and strength. He moves very well for a big man and could develop into a very good pass rusher. However, to-date, he has trouble getting off blocks and simply has not made many plays.

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.

Linebackers:

Dan 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.

Jacquian Williams’ 2012 season was sabotaged by a PCL knee injury that caused him to miss six games. He finished the year with just 30 tackles, down from the 70 he accrued in 2011. Williams was drafted in the 6th round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Giants. He was a very raw player coming out of college, having started only one season. Williams lacks bulk, but he is extremely athletic, fast, and quick for the position. Due to his size, he can get mauled at the point-of-attack against the run. Williams flashes as a blitzer and he should develop into an excellent coverage linebacker with added experience.

Mark Herzlich was unable to beat out Chase Blackburn for the starting middle linebacker position in training camp and the preseason. In 2012, he played in all 16 games, with two starts, and finished with 30 tackles. Herzlich was signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2011 NFL Draft. Herzlich was regarded as one of the better collegiate linebackers in the country before missing the 2009 season with bone cancer, which led to him having a titanium rod inserted into his left femur. Herzlich has very good size, but may now lack the overall athleticism needed to start in the NFL.

The Giants acquired Keith 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.

Spencer Paysinger was signed as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2011 NFL Draft. While serving primarily as one of the Giants’ best special teams players, Paysinger has seen his playing time on the defense increase. He actually started three games in 2012 and finished the season with 39 tackles and one forced fumble. Paysinger is more of an athletic, run-and-hit type of linebacker. However, to-date, he has not stood out as a play-maker on defense.

The Giants signed Aaron 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.

The Giants signed Jake 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 college 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.

Etienne Sabino was signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2013 NFL Draft. Sabino was a highly recruited high school linebacker who had a disappointing overall career at Ohio State, but he started to come on as a senior despite breaking his leg. He could project to either middle or outside linebacker. Sabino is a well-built athlete with good agility, quickness, and speed. He flashes ability to run-and-hit as well as take-on-and-shed. There are conflicting scouting reports on his instincts. Sabino should do well on special teams. Good intangibles – mature and coachable.

Cornerbacks:

After a very strong 2011, Corey Webster had a very poor 2012 season as he was too often victimized on deep passes. On some of these, his man got behind him, but on others, he was in good position to make a play, but did not. Webster did not miss a game despite a nagging hamstring injury that plagued him much of the season and then suffering a broken hand in September. Webster finished 58 tackles, 13 pass defenses, and four interceptions. Webster has a nice combination of size and athleticism. While not a blazer, he is smooth and fluid with good quickness and speed. Webster can play both man and zone coverage although he seems more comfortable in man. He is a confident and instinctive player. Webster is not terribly aggressive or physical against the run. The big question with Webster was 2012 an aberration or the beginning of the downside of his career?

Prince Amukamara had a very solid second year after a rough rookie campaign. Amukamara was drafted in the 1st round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Giants, but his initial season was a virtual wash due to him suffering a broken foot that required surgery very early in training camp. Amukamara missed most of camp, all of the preseason, and nine regular-season games because of the injury. When he did return in November, he did not appear mentally or physically comfortable on the playing field and was burned on several occasions. 2012 did not start off well when he suffered a high ankle sprain in the preseason and missed the first two games of the regular season. He also missed a game and was limited in two others in December with a hamstring injury. But when Amukamara played, he was a very steady performer and arguably the team’s best corner. He ended up playing in 13 games, with 11 starts, and finished with 53 tackles, seven pass defenses, and one interception. Amukamara is an extremely well-built corner who is aggressive and physical. He has good speed and quickness. Amukamara needs to stay healthy.

The Giants drafted Jayron Hosley in the 3rd round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Hosley had a rough rookie season, but the Giants are optimistic about his future as a player. Hosley played in 12 games with six starts, and finished the season with 40 tackles, five pass defenses, one interception, and one forced fumble. He did miss four games with hamstring, shoulder, and quadriceps injuries. Hosley lacks ideal stature, but he is an athletic coverman with good speed and quickness. He has very good ball skills as he reacts well to the football and makes plays. As long as he remains focused, Hosley should improve with improved technique and increased playing time. In college, he did have drug issues. Hosley can return punts. He seemed to get dinged a lot as a rookie, including in training camp.

Terrell Thomas was placed on Injured Reserve in August 2012 after tearing the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee for the third time in seven years. The first tear occurred in college and the second tear happened during the 2011 preseason. The injuries obviously put his football career in doubt. Before suffering the second injury in the 2011 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. In 2009 and 2010, Thomas was a very solid starting 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. His NFL career could be over.

Aaron 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.

Terrence Frederick spent most of 2012 on the Giants’ Practice Squad but was added to the 53-man roster in December and played in two games. Frederick was originally drafted in the 7th round of the 2012 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers waived him in August. Frederick lacks ideal size and speed, but he is an aggressive, instinctive player who has experience playing in the slot.

Laron Scott spent 2012 on the Giants’ Practice Squad. He was signed by the Giants in August 2012 after being waived by the New Orleans Saints. The Saints had signed Scott as an undrafted rookie free agent after the 2012 NFL Draft. Scott lacks ideal size for a corner. He can return kicks and punts and had a 67-yard kickoff return for the Saints in their first preseason game.

The Giants signed Trumaine 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.

Charles James was signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2013 NFL Draft. James lacks ideal size and speed, but he is a tough, instinctive corner who makes plays on the football. He has experience as a punt returner.

The Giants signed Junior Mertile in May 2013 after he impressed at the rookie mini-camp as tryout player. Mertile has good size and excellent speed.

Safeties:

Antrel Rolle has never missed a game since coming to the Giants in 2010. For the second season in a row, he finished with 96 tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble. He also had five pass defenses in 2012 (four in 2011). Rolle was originally drafted as a cornerback in the 1st round of the 2005 NFL Draft by the Arizona Cardinals. After three inconsistent seasons at corner, the Cardinals moved him to free safety in 2008. Rolle was signed by the Giants in March 2010 after the Cardinals cut him in a salary-related move. One of the better coverage safeties in the game, Rolle has good speed and range. Due to his experience as a cornerback, unlike most safeties, Rolle can play man coverage and has often been called upon to play the slot corner position. That said, he only has five interceptions and 13 pass defenses in his three years with the Giants. Rolle is a good run defender. Rolle has become one of the key leaders of the defense.

Stevie 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?

Will Hill was signed as a street free agent after the May rookie mini-camp. He not only made the team, but became an important reserve, despite being suspended for four games by the NFL for using Adderall. Hill played in 12 games and finished 2012 with 38 tackles, two pass defenses, and one forced fumble. Hill was a top-ranked athlete coming out of high school in New Jersey, but off-the-field issues caused him to be undrafted and unsigned as a junior in 2011. Hill has average size for the position, but he is a very good athlete with fine speed and quickness. He is a physical player and tackles well. He is a very good special teams player. If he keeps his nose clean, he can start and make an impact in this League.

Ryan 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.

Tyler Sash saw his playing time significantly decrease in 2012. First, he was suspended for four games by the NFL for using Adderall. In early December, he suffered a hamstring and despite being able to return to practice, Sash did not play in the last four games of the season. Sash played in seven games and finished with only eight tackles. Sash was drafted in the 6th round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Giants. As a rookie, he played in every game and finished the regular season with 17 tackles and one forced fumble on defense. He also was one of team’s better special teams players. Sash is more of a strong safety-type who plays better closer to the line. He has good size, but lacks ideal speed and agility.

Cooper Taylor was selected in the 5th round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Giants. Georgia Tech transfer due to a heart condition. Taylor is a huge safety with very good timed-speed, agility, and overall athleticism for his size. Strong. Taylor is an aggressive, physical safety who will hit. Taylor impressed sharp during East-West Shrine Game practices, taking to coaching well and showing good instincts. He should excel on special teams.

The Giants signed David 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 did not make many plays on the football when starting for the Colts.

Alonzo Tweedy was signed by the Giants as a rookie free agent after the 2013 NFL Draft. Tweedy was a part-time starter in a linebacker/safety role at Virginia Tech. He was known more for his excellent special teams play in college.

The Giants signed John Stevenson in May 2013 after he impressed at the rookie mini-camp as tryout player. Stevenson lacks classic safety size, but played both safety and linebacker in college. Stevenson has very good speed. He is smart and hard working with good leadership traits.

Punters, Kickers, and Snappers:

Steve Weatherford has done a very solid job for the Giants since he signed as an unrestricted free agent in 2011. In 2012, Weatherford averaged 47.5 yards per punt with a net average of 39.4 (both figures career highs). He also had 22 punts downed inside the 20-yard line. Before coming to the Giants, Weatherford played for the Saints (2006-08), Chiefs (2008), Jaguars (2008), and Jets (2009-2010). Weatherford has a strong leg and is also a good directional kicker.

Josh 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.

The Giants signed David 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.

Zak DeOssie is one of the league’s better long snappers, being voted to the Pro Bowl in 2008 and 2010. DeOssie was drafted as a linebacker by the Giants in the 4th round of the 2007 NFL Draft. He is now strictly a special teams player.