A breakdown of the initial wave of free agency for the New York Giants:
Overall grade: B-minus. Nate Solder is a massive upgrade at offensive tackle, which the Giants desperately needed. He’s a quality player. But guard Andrew Norwell would have made more sense at that price point given his age (26) and status as an All-Pro. The Giants shouldn’t be a win-now team. It appears they are, as evidenced by the signing of 31-year-old running back Jonathan Stewart and the trade for middle linebacker Alec Ogletree. Guard Patrick Omameh, outside linebacker Kareem Martin and defensive end Josh Mauro were nice, second-tier value moves.
Most significant signing: It’s not even close. The Giants made one monster signing that will define free agency this year. Solder fills a massive hole at left tackle, but did not come cheap. In fact, he’s being paid as the best offensive lineman in the NFL, averaging more than $15 million per season in his four-year, $62 million deal. He at least gives the Giants one competent tackle. It’s something they were desperately missing last season. It should ease the burden on quarterback Eli Manning and whomever starts at right tackle. The Giants can now afford to consistently provide help to the right tackle (Ereck Flowers?) knowing they can trust Solder to handle business on the left side. The hope is it’s a game-changer for this offense that has struggled for the past two seasons.
Most significant loss: Justin Pugh was arguably the Giants’ best offensive lineman for the past three or four years. His versatility bailed them out on several occasions. He played wherever the Giants asked or needed him most at that specific time, whether it be right tackle or guard. Only some minor injuries the past few years held him back. Pugh was a quality, team-first player since being picked in the first round in 2013 out of Syracuse. The Giants could use as many good offensive linemen as possible, but had only so much money to spend. Pugh didn’t fit into their plan under general manager Dave Gettleman.
Player they should have signed: OT Chris Hubbard, who signed with the Cleveland Browns. Spending most of their free-agent money on a soon-to-be 30-year-old tackle who has never made a Pro Bowl is an odd move for a Giants team coming off a 3-13 season with an aging quarterback, new coach and general manager and installing new offensive and defensive schemes. Hubbard isn’t as established or as good as Solder, but he’s younger with potential to grow. He’s more in line with the direction the Giants should be taking given the obstacles in front of them this season. They need to be looking beyond this season and more toward the future.
Additions: Nate Solder, LT; Patrick Omameh, G; Cody Latimer, WR; Jonathan Stewart, RB; Michael Thomas, S; Kareem Martin, OLB; Josh Mauro, DE; Kerry Wynn, DE/OLB; B.W. Webb, CB; Teddy Williams, CB; Curtis Riley, DB; Mark Herzlich, LB
Subtractions: Justin Pugh, OL; Weston Richburg, C; D.J. Fluker, G; Devon Kennard, LB; Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB; Dwayne Harris, WR; Brad Wing, P
What’s next: The Giants may make a few minor additions, but they are likely done making substantial signings. They could use depth on the offensive and defensive lines. Don’t be surprised to see Gettleman add another veteran or two for each line. A veteran kicker at some point is also a possibility.