Tag: New York Giants free agency

  • $6 Million Linebacker Makes Shocking Move Within Commanders’ Division

    $6 Million Linebacker Makes Shocking Move Within Commanders’ Division

    The NFC East is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL this year and the Washington Commanders and Philadelphia Eagles are at the front of the pack. The Commanders have been smart in addressing their weaknesses this offseason and the Eagles are hellbent on defending their Super Bowl title and maintaining their control over the division.

    But the New York Giants—despite years of underachieving—are making things interesting by helping the Eagles out through free agency. Most recently, linebacker Azeez Ojulari joined the Eagles to make their defense even stronger.

    The Eagles are Running the Show in the NFC East

    The Philadelphia Eagles have been the team to beat in the NFC East for years and their moves in free agency suggest they aren’t slowing down. After winning their second Super Bowl in franchise history the Eagles have continued to build a loaded roster by signing players like Saquon Barkley, Adoree’ Jackson and now Azeez Ojulari. With their existing core they’re a tough out for any team in the division.

    But the Washington Commanders aren’t backing down. They’ve made big strides this offseason to close the gap and are focusing on their defensive line and offensive consistency. Two teams vying for the top spot makes for a fun division.

    Why the Commanders Could Be the Eagles Biggest Threat?

    The Commanders have shown they mean business. They’ve addressed their weaknesses from last season and are for real. With their new roster and coaching staff they have a shot to dethrone the Eagles. But it’s not just the Eagles that’s in their way, it’s also the ripple effect of the Giants’ roster moves.

    Giants Exodus to Philadelphia: A Blow to the Division

    The New York Giants have had a rough few seasons, they’ve been unable to find stability on and off the field. Their struggles were exacerbated last offseason when they lost star running back Saquon Barkley in free agency and he signed with their division rival the Eagles. This trend has continued with key players like cornerback Adoree’ Jackson and linebacker Patrick Johnson also signing with the Eagles.

    Now another former Giant has joined the Eagles: linebacker Azeez Ojulari. He was a 2nd round pick in the 2021 NFL draft and was supposed to be a cornerstone of the Giants defense. However injuries and inconsistent playing time limited his impact in New York.

    Azeez Ojulari’s Career So Far

    In four seasons with the Giants, Ojulari has started 30 games and has:

    • 107 tackles (21 for loss)
    • 37 quarterback hits
    • 22 sacks
    • 4 forced fumbles
    • 3 fumble recoveries

    Not great for a second round pick but his potential is still there. His health has been his biggest issue but a fresh start in Philly could be the spark to get his career going.

    How this affects the NFC East?

    Ojulari’s addition makes the Eagles defense even better. His ability to disrupt offenses fits in with the Eagles aggressive style of play. For the Commanders this means breaking through the Eagles defense will be even tougher.

    Giants Further Weakened

    Losing Ojulari is another blow to the Giants who are already in rebuild mode. They brought in Brian Burns to bolster the pass rush but his presence overshadowed Ojulari’s role and ultimately led to his departure. The Giants struggles continue to benefit the Eagles and create an imbalance in the division.

    Commanders Opportunity

    With the Giants out of the mix the Commanders have a chance to be the Eagles primary rival but they’ll have to execute their game plan perfectly to overcome the Eagles loaded roster.

  • New York Giants’ Shock Signing Makes List of Best Free Agency Moves Ever

    New York Giants’ Shock Signing Makes List of Best Free Agency Moves Ever

    When it comes to free agency the New York Giants have had their share of hits and misses over the years. Some signings became household names and made huge impacts on the field. Others flew under the radar but still left an indelible mark on the franchise. One such signing was that of punter Jeff Feagles, a move recently ranked by veteran NFL reporter Ralph Vacchiano of FOX Sports as one of the Giants’ all-time best free agent acquisitions.

    Feagles wasn’t the flashiest guy on the roster but his consistency, reliability and leadership made him the anchor of the Giants’ special teams for 7 years. Let’s get into why this signing is one of Big Blue’s most underrated gems.

    Jeff Feagles’ Impact on the Giants

    In 2003, the Giants signed Jeff Feagles to a 5 year deal for $430,000 – a steal for a punter who would go on to be one of the greatest in NFL history. At 37 years old Feagles wasn’t a sexy addition but his experience and skills immediately upgraded the Giants special teams. Feagles was known for his precision and ability to bury opponents deep in their own territory, he became the master of the coffin corner kick. Over his 7 years with the Giants over a third of his punts landed inside the 20, giving Big Blue great field position.

    Durability and Reliability

    One of the most impressive things about Feagles career was his durability. He didn’t miss a game in his 7 years with the Giants or his entire 22 year NFL career. By the time he retired at 43 he had set an NFL record by playing in 352 consecutive games. His iron man streak was a testament to his professionalism, work ethic and love for the game.

    Leadership Beyond the Field

    Feagles wasn’t just a great player on the field he was a leader in the locker room. He was the special teams captain and brought calm and accountability to the unit. He also was the holder for field goals and extra points, he was that important to the team. His presence was stability and trust, things that are often overlooked but essential to success.

    Super Bowl Glory and Legacy

    Feagles was big in the Giants’ Super Bowl XLII victory over the undefeated Patriots. While everybody was focused on Eli’s fourth quarter heroics and the defense’s goal line stand, Feagles was quietly flipping field position and keeping the Patriots’ high powered offense off the board.

    He made the Pro Bowl team in 2008, which was well deserved for a player who was reliable every week. He wasn’t the face of the franchise, but Feagles’ steady hand and consistency made the Giants a championship team.

    Why Feagles’ Signing Stands Out

    Feagles signed during the Ernie Accorsi era. Accorsi was the best GM the Giants have ever had. He could find undervalued talent. He saw Feagles could stabilize the special teams unit. While flashy signings get all the attention, it’s moves like this—quiet, calculated and impactful—that are what define a good front office.

    Underrated Hero

    In a world where everyone is obsessed with QBs, WRs and defensive players, Feagles reminded us all of the importance of special teams. He could control field position and execute under pressure. That’s why Vacchiano calls this one of the greatest signings in Giants history.

    Feagles’ Legacy in New York

    Feagles’ time with the Giants cemented his place as one of the all time greats. He could flip the field and pin opponents deep and was unbelievable durable.

    Under GM Ernie Accorsi the Giants made a move that would pay off for years to come. Feagles’ signing may not have been big news at the time but its one of the smartest moves the franchise has ever made.