The New York Giants recently signed 26-year-old middle linebacker Bobby Okereke to a four-year, $40 million contract with $22 million guaranteed.
NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger praised Okereke’s durability and productivity, saying that he is an every-down linebacker who can be placed in the middle of the defense and remain effective.
Okereke’s speed in the middle of the defense makes him an ideal player for tackling running backs and dropping back into pass coverage, particularly in second-and-long situations.
He is expected to make a significant difference in the Giants’ defense, particularly if they can re-sign All-Pro defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.
The Giants have struggled in recent seasons to stop the run, ranking second-to-last in yards per carry allowed and yielding the fifth-most first downs gained on the ground in the NFL last season.
Okereke’s signing is viewed as the beginning of rebuilding the Giants’ defense, as well as a win-win situation for both the Giants and Okereke.
The Giants are also seeking versatile pass-catchers to strengthen their offense.
They are expected to sign Jeff Smith, who spent the last four seasons with the Jets, and are considering several other free agents who could fit the versatility mold.
In other news, Giants tight end Darren Waller was recently traded to the team from the Raiders.
Waller’s wife, Las Vegas Aces guard Kelsey Plum, is facing the challenge of continuing their relationship despite being based in different cities due to their professional sports careers.
Finally, the article answers two frequently asked questions: what impact recent running back developments will have on Saquon Barkley’s extension negotiations, and what it means when the Giants’ contingent appears at a college prospect’s Pro Day.
The Giants remain committed to Barkley and believe in his value on and off the field, but Barkley may have to decide whether to accept a below-market value contract or bet on himself to have another big season and negotiate a better deal in the future.
When the Giants’ contingent appears at a college prospect’s Pro Day, it could indicate interest or simply due diligence in ruling out a player.
»Okereke’s Signing: A Game-Changer for Giants’ Defense«
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