With the calendar flipped to July, Giants.com asks 21 important questions heading into the team's 2021 training camp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
For 21 days, a member of the Giants.com crew will answer one question about the roster, coaching staff, schedule, and much more.
No. 8: What will second-round pick Azeez Ojulari add to the defensive front?
Dan Salomone: For starters, they're getting a semifinalist for the Chuck Bednarik Award (which goes annually to the nation's top defensive player in college football) and the 2020 SEC leader in sacks and tackles for loss. The Giants' familiarity with the linebacker, however, went deeper than the numbers. Kevin Sherrer, who will be his position coach in the NFL, originally recruited Ojulari at the University of Georgia. Additionally, the Giants have a host of former college coaches on staff who also coached against Ojulari and "he's always a guy that stood out to them on the field as someone they had to account for," coach Joe Judge pointed out after the draft.
After trading back from No. 42 overall to No. 50, the Giants had a "bunch of guys" they liked in that range, but director of college scouting Chris Pettit said what set Ojulari apart was his pro-ready hands, instincts, and the "ability to make big plays in big spots." The Giants' top offseason priority was adding offensive playmakers for Daniel Jones, but pass rush help was not far below it.
John Schmeelk: You could look at this receiving corps like a basketball team – they have different players with complimentary skill sets. Toney is electric with the ball in his hands and can turn a 3-yard pass into a 50-yard gain because of his elusiveness, strength, speed, quickness and creativity.
Toney was not the most polished route runner in college, but there's no reason to think he cannot become more adept running the route tree with more reps in the NFL. He will probably open primarily in the slot with plays designed for him to take advantage of his freakish abilities. Expect a lot of screen passes, slants, end-arounds, shovel passes and jet sweeps to start the season. And don't forget about his return abilities, either.
Catch up on all the action with must-see photos from minicamp at the Quest Diagnostics Training Center.
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
CB James Bradberry (24)
CB Logan Ryan (23), DL Leonard Williams (99)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
G Will Hernandez (71)
DL B.J. Hill (95), DL Dexter Lawrence (97)
G Shane Lemieux (66), OL Andrew Thomas (78)
TE Cole Hikutini (48)
LB Lorenzo Carter (59)
RB Corey Clement (30)
S Julian Love (20)
DE Niko Lalos (57)
WR Dante Pettis (13)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
S Julian Love (20)
TE Evan Engram (88)
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
LB Azeez Ojulari (51)
CB Quincy Williams (28)
New York Giants linebacker Elerson Smith (58)
S Julian Love (20)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
WR Kenny Golladay (19), WR Kelvin Benjamin (83)
TE Evan Engram (88)
S Julian Love (20)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
RB Devontae Booker (28)
LB Cale Garrett (41)
LB Lorenzo Carter (59)
RB Gary Brightwell (37)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
WR Dante Pettis (13)
OT Matt Peart (74), G Will Hernandez (71), G Shane Lemieux (66), G Chad Slade (62)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
OT Matt Peart (74), G Will Hernandez (71), G Shane Lemieux (66), G Chad Slade (62)
DE Ifeadi Odenigbo (44)
WR Alex Bachman (15)
OT Matt Peart (74), G Will Hernandez (71), G Shane Lemieux (66)
LB Cale Garrett (41)
WR John Ross (12)
WR C.J. Board (18)
DE Niko Lalos (57)
TE Evan Engram (88)
DE Niko Lalos (57)
DE Niko Lalos (57)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
LB Blake Martinez (54)
RB Gary Brightwell (37)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
WR Austin Mack (81)
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
LB Azeez Ojulari (51)
DT David Moa (96)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
DL R.J. McIntosh (90)
LB Elerson Smith (58)
LB Azeez Ojulari (51)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
LB Elerson Smith (58)
CB Isaac Yiadom (27)
CB Isaac Yiadom (27)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
CB James Bradberry (24)
DB Joshua Kalu (39)
CB James Bradberry (24)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
CB Sam Beal (34)
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
DB Joshua Kalu (39)
CB Quincy Williams (28)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
DB Madre Harper (45)
S Julian Love (20)
S Julian Love (20)
CB Jarren Williams (38)
CB Adoree' Jackson (22)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
LB Tae Crowder (48)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
TE Cole Hikutini (48)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
LB TJ Brunson (35)
WR Derrick Dillon (6)
TE Cole Hikutini (48)
LB Azeez Ojulari (51)
WR John Ross (12)
Zach Fulton (73)
DE Ifeadi Odenigbo (44)
RB Ryquell Armstead (27)
G Jake Burton (70)
RB Sandro Platzgummer (34)
RB Sandro Platzgummer (34)
RB Ryquell Armstead (27)
RB Corey Clement (30)
RB Ryquell Armstead (27)
RB Corey Clement (30)
G Nick Gates (65)
RB Corey Clement (30)
RB Corey Clement (30)
FB Cullen Gillaspia (36)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
WR John Ross (12)
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
WR Sterling Shepard (3)
WR Kadarius Toney (89)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
LB Carter Coughlin (49)
Darnay Holmes (30)
CB Sam Beal (34), S Julian Love (20), S Xavier McKinney (29), CB Darnay Holmes (30)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
Darnay Holmes (30)
G Chad Slade (62)
CB Sam Beal (34), S Julian Love (20), S Xavier McKinney (29), CB Darnay Holmes (30)
DB Isaac Yiadom (27), CB James Bradberry (24)
DB Isaac Yiadom (27), CB James Bradberry (24)
OT Andrew Thomas (78)
LB Devante Downs (52)
LB Reggie Ragland (55)
WR David Sills V (84), CB Rodarius Williams (25)
WR David Sills V (84), CB Rodarius Williams (25)
WR Austin Mack (81)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
WR Sterling Shepard (3)
WR David Sills V (84)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
WR CJ Board (18)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
DB Montre Hartage (36)
DB Madre Harper (45)
CB Adoree' Jackson (22)
DB Montre Hartage (36)
DB Joshua Kalu (39)
CB Jarren Williams (38)
CB Jarren Williams (38)
DB Issac Yiadom (27)
CB James Bradberry (24)
S Julian Love (20)
S Julian Love (20)
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
S Julian Love (20)
S Jabrill Peppers (21)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
S Julian Love (20)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
DB Joshua Kalu (39)
S Xavier McKinney (29)
DB Joshua Kalu (39)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
CB Darnay Holmes (30)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during minicamp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Tuesday June 8, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
CB James Bradberry (24)
CB Julian Love (20)
DB Jabrill Peppers (21)
WR Kenny Golladay (19)
DB Logan Ryan (23)
DB Adoree' Jackson (22)
CB Darnay Holmes (30)
DB Logan Ryan (23)
CB Adoree' Jackson (22)
CB Adoree' Jackson (22)
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during minicamp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Tuesday June 8, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
New York Giants wide receiver Kadarius Toney (89) during minicamp practice at Quest Diagnostics Training Center on Tuesday June 8, 2021 in East Rutherford, New Jersey
TE Nakie Griffin-Stewart (47), G Chad Slade (62)
CB Rodarius Williams (25)
P Riley Dixon (9)
CB Rodarius Williams (25)
OL Andrew Thomas (78)
CB Rodarius Williams (25)
OL Andrew Thomas (78)
P Riley Dixon (9), K Graham Gano (5)
CB Rodarius Williams (25)
P Riley Dixon (9), K Graham Gano (5)
P Riley Dixon (9), K Graham Gano (5)
RB Gary Brightwell (37)
TE Evan Engram (88)
P Riley Dixon (9), K Graham Gano (5)
RB Gary Brightwell (37)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
RB Elijhaa Penny (39)
TE Evan Engram (88)
RB Devontae Booker (28)
OL Jonotthan Harrison (64)
OL Jonotthan Harrison (64)
CB Logan Ryan (23)
WR C.J. Board (18)
OL Jonotthan Harrison (64)
DL R.J. McIntosh (90), Raymond Johnson III (91)
WR C.J. Board (18)
CB Logan Ryan (23)
RB Corey Clement (30)
TE Evan Engram (88)
RB Corey Clement (30)
Leonard Williams (99), DE B.J. Hill (95)
TE Evan Engram (88)
RB Corey Clement (30)
CB Darnay Holmes (30)
Leonard Williams (99), DE B.J. Hill (95)
CB Logan Ryan (23)
RB Corey Clement (30)
RB Corey Clement (30)
QB Mike Glennon (2), RB Corey Clement (30)
RB Corey Clement (30)
G Nick Gates (65)
TE Nakie Griffin-Stewart (47), G Chad Slade (62)
OT Matt Peart (74)
Lance Medow: Many would say the main storyline is the development and production of the offensive line and I would put that very high on the list but slightly behind the player they need to protect - Daniel Jones. He's entering Year 3 and the Giants added some weapons at wide receiver and tight end to provide him with even more firepower. Now, it's a matter of whether they can all put it together with Jones at the reins. The Giants had just 12 total passing touchdowns and averaged 17.5 points per game in 2020. Regardless of how good your defense is, it's very hard to remain competitive let alone win games with that level of offensive production.
Daniel Jones had a solid rookie campaign with 24 touchdowns against 12 interceptions in 12 starts. If he can duplicate his 2019 numbers and then some, I think the Giants offense will be in much better shape when it comes to its average points per game and will take some pressure off the defense. While an offense is dependent on many facets in addition to the quarterback, the signal caller's decision making can go a long way in determining the outlook of that unit. With Jones running the same scheme for the second straight year for the first time in his pro career, we'll also see whether that familiarity and comfort will prove to be a benefit that can help both him and the surrounding talent.
Dan Salomone: The front office was given the green light this offseason. They received the go-ahead to spend in free agency – which assistant general manager Kevin Abrams said was "probably uncommon this year" among NFL owners given the pandemic-related financial losses – and the aggressive approach carried over to the draft in the form of well-publicized trades.
"I think it did," general manager Dave Gettleman said after the Giants filled out their six-man draft class, which began with trading back to select dynamic wide receiver Kadarius Toney in the first round. "You know, we've had that mindset. And you know we just felt like, it's all about calculated risk. You go to Vegas, go to Atlantic City, and some people are aggressive and some people aren't. It's just sometimes it's instinct. Sometimes it's just looking at the board and seeing where it's going to take you. … We were aggressive in the roster-building season in both free agency and the draft."
Additionally, while every draft is about the future, the decision-makers had an even closer eye on next year. The reason was twofold. Not only is it shaping up to be a strong class, there were too many unknowns this year due to the pandemic-stricken evaluation process. Thus, they made it a priority to stockpile picks, gaining selections in the first, third, and fourth rounds in 2022.
"To be honest with you, it makes it fun knowing that we have all these opportunities to take players next year," director of college scouting Chris Pettit said. "So I'm looking forward to it. With a big class, it's going to be a lot of work for us. Our scouts are going to have to be as thorough as ever and start work earlier with such a big class and guys moving all around. We know that, and we are ready to take on the challenge. But now at least we have the picks to hit it out of the park next year again hopefully."
View photos of the New York Giants 2021 NFL Draft Class.
WR Kadarius Toney, Florida - Round 1, Pick 20
LB Azeez Ojulari, Georgia - Round 2, Pick 50
CB Aaron Robinson, UCF - Round 3, Pick 71
LB Elerson Smith, Northern Iowa - Round 4, Pick 116
RB Gary Brightwell, Arizona - Round 6, Pick 196
CB Rodarius Williams, Oklahoma State - Round 6, Pick 201
Kadarius Toney during the Gators' game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, November 10, 2018 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Matt Stamey
during the Gators' game against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
during the Gators' game against the Ole Miss Rebels on Saturday, September 26, 2020 at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Miss. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
Kadarius Toney during the Gators' game against the Kentucky Wildcats on Saturday, November 28, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Hannah White
during the Gators' game against the South Carolina Gamecocks on Saturday, October 3, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Tim Casey
during the Gators' game against the Texas A&M Aggies on Saturday, October 10, 2020 at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
during the Gators' game against the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, October 31, 2020 at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, Fla. / UAA Communications photo by Courtney Culbreath
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, far right, runs past the Miami defense on a 66-yard run for a touchdown off a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for a touchdown after a catch during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney scores a touchdown against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) catches a pass during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) catches a pass during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) during the American team practice for the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs against Alabama during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for a touchdown after a catch during the first half of the Southeastern Conference championship NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Dec. 19, 2020, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/John Bazemore)
American Team wide receiver Kadarius Toney of Florida (1) runs during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a 16-yard touchdown against Missouri during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the second half of an NCAA college football game against LSU, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) scores a touchdown during the second half of the team's NCAA college football game against LSU, Saturday, Dec. 12, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs after a reception before he being stopped by the Missouri defense during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) catches a touchdown pass against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route in front of Arkansas defensive back LaDarrius Bishop (24) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs for yardage against Georgia during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, in Jacksonville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) stretches for more yards as his is tackled by Texas A&M defensive back Keldrick Carper (14) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 10, 2020. in College Station, Texas. (AP Photo/Sam Craft)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) gets past South Carolina defensive back John Dixon (22) for a 57-yard touchdown run during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs after a reception during the first half of an NCAA college football game against South Carolina, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, runs past Florida State linebacker Leonard Warner IIIduring the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs past Florida State defensive end Dennis Briggs Jr. (58) and linebacker Adonis Thomas, right, for a long gain during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, tries to escape the grasp of Florida State defensive back Levonta Taylor, right, during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs against Vanderbilt during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney, left, catches a pass as Missouri defensive back DeMarkus Acy (2) and safety Joshuah Bledsoe (18) defend during the second half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019, in Columbia, Mo. Florida won 23-6. (AP Photo/Jeff Roberson)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs against Vanderbilt during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 9, 2019, in Gainesville, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs a pass pattern against Miami during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida running back Kadarius Toney (4) leaps toward the end zone against Michigan defensive back Lavert Hill (24) during the first half of the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 2018, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/Mike Stewart)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney runs a pass pattern against Miami during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Florida wide receiver Kadarius Toney (1) runs a route during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Miami Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) plays against Vanderbilt in the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari rushes the Arkansas State line during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates with his teammates after a sack during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates with defensive lineman Travon Walker (44) after a sack during the second half of the team's NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) in action during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Auburn, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia defensive Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia head coach Kirby Smart, watches Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari hold the championship tropy as Georgia place kicker Jack Podlesny (96) looks on after the Peach Bowl NCAA college football gameagainst Cincinnati, Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, in Atlanta. Georgia won 22-21. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari rushes the line during an NCAA football gameagainst Arkansas State on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019 in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/John Amis)
Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates after a sack during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Mississippi State, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Athens, Ga. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Defensive player of the game, Georgia linebacker Azeez Ojulari holds the championship trophy after the Peach Bowl NCAA college football game against Cincinnati, Friday, Jan. 1, 2021, in Atlanta. Georgia won 22-21. (AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates a sack with defensive back Mark Webb (23) against Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Riley Neal (6) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
Georgia defensive Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (13) celebrates a sack with defensive back Mark Webb (23) against Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Riley Neal (6) during an NCAA football game on Saturday, Aug. 31, 2019 in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Brett Carlsen)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia defensive back Azeez Ojulari (13) against Arkansas during an NCAA college football game in Fayetteville, Ark. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Woods)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) attempts a broad jump during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) runs position drills during the pro day event, Wednesday, March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Georgia Bulldogs linebacker Azeez Ojulari (21) attempts a vertical jump during the pro day event, Wednesday , March 17, 2021 in Athen, Ga. (Alika Jenner via AP)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) and American Team wide receiver Trevon Grimes of Florida (8) run a drill during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) catches during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
American Team defensive back Aaron Robinson of UCF (31) catches during the American Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game, against Tulsa Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) follows a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) celebrates after a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) defends against Tulsa wide receiver Keylon Stokes (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) defends against Tulsa wide receiver Keylon Stokes (2) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Tulsa running back T.K. Wilkerson (21) is tackled by Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) after rushing for yardage during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) tackles Pittsburgh wide receiver Maurice Ffrench (2) after he made a catch during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 21, 2019, in Pittsburgh. (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) returns an interception to the 1-yard line as Stanford wide receiver Connor Wedington (5) chases during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) tips the ball away from Houston wide receiver Marquez Stevenson (5) during the second half of an NCAA college football game in Orlando, Fla., Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019.Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr.)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) follows a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Tulsa, Saturday, Oct. 3, 2020, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson, center, and defensive back Richie Grant, right, break up a pass intended for Temple wide receiver Ventell Bryant (1) during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Thursday, Nov. 1, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Navy Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. UCF won 35-24. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson runs after intercepting a pass against Stanford during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/John Raoux)
Central Florida defensive back Aaron Robinson (31) sets up for a play during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Navy Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018, in Orlando, Fla. UCF won 35-24. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
American Team wide receiver Amari Rodgers of Clemson (3)is tackled by National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the first half of the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team offensive lineman Spencer Brown of Northern Iowa (FCS) (76) blocks defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the National team practice for the NCAA college Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala., Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) walks on the sidelines during the first half of the NCAA college football Senior Bowl in Mobile, Ala, Saturday, Jan. 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Rusty Costanza)
National Team defensive lineman Rashad Weaver of Pittsburgh (17) runs a drill with defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill during the National Team practice for the NCAA Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala. Wednesday, Jan. 27, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill with defensive lineman Tarron Jackson of Coastal Carolina (99) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
National Team defensive lineman Elerson Smith of Northern Iowa (FCS) (47) runs a drill with defensive lineman Tarron Jackson of Coastal Carolina (99) during the National Team practice for the Senior Bowl college football game in Mobile, Ala., Thursday, Jan. 28, 2021. (AP Photo/Matthew Hinton)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) runs the ball against Arizona State in the first half of an NCAA college football game, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, center, runs as Washington's Edefuan Ulofoshio (48) and Josiah Bronson (11) move in during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Arizona State, Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) runs behind the line of scrimmage as quarterback Grant Gunnell waits for the snap against during the first half of the team's NCAA college football game against Washington on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2020, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Southern California linebacker Drake Jackson (99) tackles Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, runs by Oregon State linebacker Riley Sharp, left, in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (0) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Nov. 14, 2020, in Tucson, Ariz. Southern California won 34-30. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) scores a touchdown against Oregon State in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona Wildcats running back Gary Brightwell (23) before the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, in Boulder, Colo. (AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Oregon State, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Oregon State defeated Arizona 56-38. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) tries to avoid Oregon State defensive back Jojo Forest in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 2, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona's Gary Brightwell (23) is brought down by Arizona State's Evan Fields (4) during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 30, 2019, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Darryl Webb)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, scores a touchdown against UCLA in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 28, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. Arizona defeated UCLA 20-17. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs through the Hawaii defense during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Aug. 24, 2019, in Honolulu. (AP Photo/Marco Garcia)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Northern Arizona, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs with the ball against Texas Tech during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, left, tries to get away from Washington State linebacker Peyton Pelluer (47) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) stands with his teammates during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Washington State in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell catches a pass prior to an NCAA college football game against Texas Tech, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) runs away from Northern Arizona defensive back Anthony Sweeney in the second half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) scores a touchdown against Northern Arizona in the first half during an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 7, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona quarterback Khalil Tate (14) hands the ball off to running back Gary Brightwell during the second half of an NCAA college football game against Texas Tech, Saturday, Sept. 14, 2019, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ralph Freso)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) lines up for a play during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Washington State in Pullman, Wash., Saturday, Nov. 17, 2018. (AP Photo/Young Kwak)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the second half during an NCAA college football game against Southern Utah, Saturday, Sept. 15, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) during an NCAA college football game against Oregon, Saturday, Oct. 27, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, left, is tackled by Utah defensive end Caleb Repp, right, in the second half during an NCAA college football game Friday, Oct. 12, 2018, in Salt Lake City. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell, right, is tackled by Houston linebacker Roman Brown during the first half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Sept. 8, 2018, in Houston. (AP Photo/Eric Christian Smith)
Arizona running back Gary Brightwell (23) in the first half during an NCAA college football game against Southern California, Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, in Tucson, Ariz. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
CB Rodarius Williams
Image Taken at the Oklahoma State Cowboys vs West Virginia Mountaineers Football Game, Saturday, September 26, 2020, Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams, left, fights for the ball with Kansas wide receiver Andrew Parchment (4) on a pass play in the second half of an NCAA college football game in Stillwater, Okla., Saturday, Nov. 16, 2019. Officials ruled Parchment caught the pass. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki)
Oklahoma State's Rodarius Williams (8) tackles Texas Tech's T.J. Vasher (9) during the first half of an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 5, 2019, in Lubbock, Texas. (AP Photo/Brad Tollefson)
Texas A&M wide receiver Quartney Davis (1) is tackled by Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) during the first half of the Texas Bowl NCAA college football game Friday, Dec. 27, 2019, in Houston. (AP Photo/Michael Wyke)
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) and Oklahoma State safety Tre Sterling (3) look to the sidelines during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, in Stillwater, Okla. Oklahoma State defeated Iowa State 24-21.(AP Photo/Brody Schmidt)
Oklahoma State cornerback Rodarius Williams (8) breaks up a pass intended for Iowa State wide receiver Allen Lazard, right, in the end zone during the second half of an NCAA college football game, Saturday, Nov. 11, 2017, in Ames, Iowa. Oklahoma State won 49-42. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Image Taken at the Oklahoma State Cowboys vs Texas Tech Red Raiders Football Game, Saturday, November 28, 2020, Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Image of Oklahoma State Cowboy Football Player Taken Wednesday, July 17, 2019, Orange Power Studios, Stillwater, OK. Bruce Waterfield/OSU Athletics
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams attempts a broad jump during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams looks on during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams warms up during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams attempts a vertical jump during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams sits for photos after the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams sits for photos after the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a short shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs a 3 cone shuttle during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
Oklahoma State Cowboys cornerback Rodarius Williams runs position drills during the pro day event, Thursday, April 1, 2021 in Stillwater, Okla. (Alika Jenner via AP)
John Schmeelk: It's time to start winning. The Giants made additions on both sides of the ball, acquiring guys who are in the prime of their careers and should be able to bring a high level of play. The team had to get creative with future salary cap obligations to fit all these players in under the reduced 2021 cap, so this is going to be the core of the team for the next couple of seasons.
Kenny Golladay and Kyle Rudolph were brought in to help Daniel Jones be a more consistent passer. They are reliable route runners with great hands who will make contested catches. so Jones will not have to be perfect throwing to players with such a large catch radius. They will also help in the red zone, where there is much less room to create separation from defenders.
On defense, the addition of Adoree' Jackson should stabilize the second outside cornerback position and give Patrick Graham the freedom to be more creative with his coverages. Graham's still expected to mix up his zone defenses and disguise a lot, but it's likely we will see more man-to-man on third downs and other critical situations. Danny Shelton should help replace Dalvin Tomlinson's production in the run game, while Ifeadi Odenigbo should help the pass rush.
The best word to describe the Giants free agency approach was "urgent" and it should give them a better chance to compete for a division championship or wild-card spot this season.
With training camp here, view photos of every move made by the Giants this offseason.
DT Leonard Williams - Signed to three-year contract
WR Kenny Golladay - Free Agent Signing
CB Adoree' Jackson - Free Agent Signing
TE Kyle Rudolph - Free Agent Signing
WR John Ross - Free Agent Signing
DT Danny Shelton - Free Agent Signing
LB Reggie Ragland - Free Agent Signing
DE Ifeadi Odenigbo - Free Agent Signing
WR Kadarius Toney - Selected with 20th pick in 2021 NFL Draft
WR Kadarius Toney - Selection List Signing
LB Azeez Ojulari - Selected with 50th pick in 2021 NFL Draft
LB Azeez Ojulari - Selection List Signing
CB Aaron Robinson - Selected with 71st pick in 2021 NFL Draft
CB Aaron Robinson - Selection List Signing
LB Elerson Smith - Selected with 116th pick in 2021 NFL Draft
LB Elerson Smith - Selection List Signing
RB Gary Brightwell - Selected with 196th pick in 2021 NFL Draft
RB Gary Brightwell - Selection List Signing
CB Rodarius WIlliams - Selected with 201st pick in 2021 NFL Draft
CB Rodarius Williams - Selection List Signing
RB Saquon Barkley - Fifth-year option picked up
RB Devontae Booker - Free Agent Signing
QB Mike Glennon - Free Agent Signing
OLB Ryan Anderson - Free Agent Signing
OL Zach Fulton - Free Agent Signing
OL Jonotthan Harrison - Free Agent Signing
OL Joe Looney - Free Agent Signing
WR Damion Willis - Free Agent Signing
RB Corey Clement - Free Agent Signing
C Brett Heggie - Undrafted Free Agent Signing
G Jake Burton - Undrafted Free Agent Signing
DE Raymond Johnson - Undrafted Free Agent Signing
DT Austin Johnson - Signed to new contract with Giants
WR C.J. Board
LS Casey Kreiter - Signed to new contract with Giants
LB Devante Downs - Free Agent Signing
FB Cullen Gillaspia - Free Agent Signing
DB Joshua Kalu - Free Agent Signing
TE Cole Hikutini - Free Agent Signing
DB Chris Milton
RB Mike Weber - Free Agent Signing
DB Jordyn Peters - Free Agent Signing
WR Alex Bachman - Signed to a reserve/future deal
LB Trent Harris - Signed to a reserve/future deal
DB Montre Hartage - Signed to a reserve/future deal
TE Rysen John - Signed to a reserve/future deal
DT David Moa - Signed to a reserve/future deal
G Chad Slade - Signed to a reserve/future deal
QB Clayton Thorson - Signed to a reserve/future deal
LS Carson Tinker - Signed to a reserve/future deal
G Kenny Wiggins - Signed to a reserve/future deal
DB Jarren Williams - Signed to a reserve/future deal
DB Quincy Wilson - Signed to a reserve/future deal
OT Jackson Barton - Signed, Renegotiated Contract: Exclusive Rights
DB Madre Harper - Signed, Renegotiated Contract: Exclusive Rights
WR Derrick Dillon - Signed to a reserve/future deal
WR David Sills - Signed, Renegotiated Contract: Exclusive Rights
TE Nakia Griffin-Stewart - Signed to a reserve/future deal
LB Cale Garrett - Signed to a reserve/future deal
P Ryan Santoso - Signed to a reserve/future deal
G Kevin Zeitler - Released
WR Golden Tate - Released
RB Devonta Freeman - Waived, from Reserve/Injured
WR Da'Mari Scott - Waived, No Recall
DB Shakial Taylor - Waived, No Recall
LB David Mayo - Released
WR Cody Core - Released
CB Ryan Lewis - Waived
Lance Medow: As it stands now, there are likely three starting positions up for grabs on the offensive line: both guard spots and right tackle. It's fair to say Andrew Thomas is the left tackle and Nick Gates has a good grasp at center after starting all 16 games at that position in 2020 for the first time in his career. Last season, Will Hernandez started seven games at left guard before having to battle COVID-19. He was replaced by Shane Lemieux, who started nine games, but his sample size is relatively small. The Giants also brought in veteran Zach Fulton after parting ways with Kevin Zeitler. Fulton has experience at right guard and left guard and has started at least 12 games in six of his seven seasons in the NFL.
With Cam Fleming joining the Broncos this off-season, Matt Peart has a shot to win the starting right tackle job, but he only played 15% of the offensive snaps last season and Nate Solder returns after opting out. While Solder hasn't played right tackle since his rookie year in 2011, he's a polished veteran, who has been in the league for a decade. Regardless of who wins the right tackle job, the Giants should be in a good position at swing tackle. The offensive line is far from a finished product, given some competition at various spots, but in all likelihood, New York will be relying on a youth movement with potentially three second year players in the starting lineup.
Dan Salomone: Clinching a Week 17 victory over the rival Cowboys with an interception was a good way to springboard safety Xavier McKinney into his sophomore campaign. While a fractured foot delayed his rookie debut until Week 12 last year, teammates and coaches still knew how special McKinney could be in the NFL. He started to show that as he got his legs under him, and his game should only improve with Pro Bowl-caliber players and leaders around him at every level of the defense.
In terms of a player with a few more years under his belt, edge defender Ifeadi Odenigbo is a name to remember. The newcomer from the Vikings has already built a strong relationship with assistant head coach/defensive coordinator Patrick Graham.
"Outside of football, he's a very knowledgeable guy," said Graham, who played college football at Yale. "We were doing Zooms, and I saw his artwork in the background and helped me out. He provided the connection there for the artwork. Smart guy. I like the way he plays football. He has versatility inside and outside on the line. Natural pass rush ability. Plays strong with his hands. Physical edge setter and a great attitude. He's always soaking it up. He's very serious, but he could play around a little bit."
John Schmeelk: There are two legitimate answers – edge rusher because of the sheer number of players at the position and the offensive line.
There are also a lot of compelling story lines on the edge, such as Lorenzo Carter trying to return from his Achilles injury, Oshane Ximines returning from a shoulder injury entering his critical third season, veteran free agents such as Ifeadi Odenigbo and rookies Azeez Ojulari and Elerson Smith. It is essential for the Giants to get strong production from that group if they want to be an elite defense.
But the primary focus should be on the right side of the offensive line because the effectiveness of this group impacts every aspect of the offense. A leaky offensive line will also make the evaluation of Daniel Jones a little more difficult. It would be beneficial for the organization to see Jones under optimal conditions to see how effective he can be over the long term. If he is under constant pressure all season there could be "what if" questions left unanswered at the end of the year, which nobody wants with Jones entering his fourth season.
There are fun position battles within the unit, too. Will Hernandez has not played right guard since high school. If Shane Lemieux isn't the left guard, he could be called on to play on the right side, but he didn't take any snaps there in college, either (but had 13 snaps there as a rookie). And there are veterans in the mix, including Zach Fulton, Jonotthan Harrison, Chade Slade, and Kenny Wiggins who will try to hold off 2020 undrafted free agent Kyle Murphy and 2021 undrafted free agent Jake Burton.
The competition at right tackle is even more crucial and features two very different players. There's Matt Peart, a second year player from UConn with just 152 offensive snaps last year (104 of which came at right tackle). He started all 48 games he played in for the Huskies, with his final two years coming as a starter at right tackle. He checks every physical box with 36 5/8-inch arms and athleticism, but the flashes he showed as a rookie need to become consistent production. His competition is Nate Solder, who has been in the league for 10 years, but not played right tackle since his rookie season. He has always been a starter and will provide a strong baseline to challenge Peart.
View photos of the New York Giants' active 53-man roster as it currently stands.
RB Saquon Barkley
RB Devontae Booker
CB James Bradberry
G Ben Bredeson
RB Gary Brightwell
LB Lorenzo Carter
WR Pharoh Cooper
DB Keon Crossen
LB Tae Crowder
OT Korey Cunningham
P Riley Dixon
TE Evan Engram
QB Jake Fromm
K Graham Gano
FB Cullen Gillaspia
QB Mike Glennon
WR Kenny Golladay
G Will Hernandez
DT Austin Johnson
WR Collin Johnson
DL Raymond Johnson III
QB Daniel Jones
LS Casey Kreiter
DL Dexter Lawrence
DB Julian Love
G Wes Martin
LB Benardrick McKinney
S Xavier McKinney
TE Chris Myarick
LB Azeez Ojulari
DB Steven Parker
OT Matt Peart
FB Elijhaa Penny
C Billy Price
LB Reggie Ragland
DB J.R. Reed
LB Quincy Roche
TE Kyle Rudolph
DB Logan Ryan
DT Danny Shelton
WR Sterling Shepard
OL Matt Skura
WR Darius Slayton
LB Elerson G. Smith
OT Nate Solder
OT Andrew Thomas
DT Leonard Williams
Single Game Tickets
A limited number of Giants 2021 single game tickets are on sale now
