The New York Giants suffered a disappointing 28-6 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, September 8. Following the loss, Matt Holder from Bleacher Report’s Scouting Department has identified key areas where the Giants need improvement and is recommending immediate actions.
Rudy Ford as a Key Addition
In a September 9 analysis focusing on each team’s critical weaknesses before Week 2, Holder highlighted significant concerns for the Giants and their quarterback, Daniel Jones.
Holder criticized Jones’ performance in the season opener, noting, “In what is anticipated to be a crucial year for Daniel Jones, his debut was less than stellar. Jones threw two interceptions, failed to score a touchdown, and fell short of 200 passing yards despite making 42 attempts. This contributed significantly to New York’s 22-point defeat against Minnesota.”
According to Holder, the quarterback position is the Giants’ most glaring issue, followed by cornerback, defensive tackle, running back, and safety.
Holder suggests that safety Rudy Ford could be a valuable addition. “The Giants are relatively inexperienced in the secondary and could benefit from bolstering their safety position,” he said. “Ford would be a solid acquisition given his consistent play over the past two years, with Pro Football Focus grades of 74.6 and 69.9. His seven years in the league would bring much-needed experience to New York’s defensive backfield.”
Ford began his NFL career with the Arizona Cardinals in 2017 and has since played for the Philadelphia Eagles, Jacksonville Jaguars, Green Bay Packers, and Carolina Panthers. During his time with the Packers from 2022 to 2023, he was recognized for his reliable tackling and run defense, as noted by Paul Bretl of USA Today. Despite his release from the Packers and a brief stint with the Panthers, Ford remains a potential asset for the Giants.
Trey Smith as a Potential Target
Additionally, Holder suggests that the Giants should consider signing guard Trey Smith from the Kansas City Chiefs. Smith, known for consistently high Pro Football Focus grades, is expected to become a highly sought-after free agent. Holder points out, “With Greg Van Roten on a one-year contract, the Giants need a long-term solution at right guard. Smith could be an ideal fit, especially as he may be released by the Chiefs following Creed Humphrey’s recent contract extension.”
Holder also notes that with the Giants currently having approximately $30.1 million in cap space, per Over the Cap, they are well-positioned to make this signing a reality.
Roster Update
In other roster news, the Giants signed fullback Jakob Johnson to their active roster on Tuesday, September 10, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
As the Giants look to strengthen their roster, the potential additions of Rudy Ford and Trey Smith could address some of their most pressing needs and help improve their performance moving forward.