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Giants Edge Rushers: Sacks or Bust?
22 Jul
Summary
- Giants' outside linebackers possess deep talent but struggle converting pressures to sacks.
- The unit aims to improve run defense, which allowed many large chunk plays last season.
- Coaching continuity is expected to aid young edge defenders' overall growth and production.
The New York Giants' outside linebacker corps, led by Brian Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux, and Abdul Carter, is considered the most promising on the roster. Burns finished last season second in sacks with 16.5. Abdul Carter, a rookie, recorded 48 quick pressures, while Thibodeaux earned an 80.7 run defense grade from PFF despite missing games due to injury.
Despite their collective talent, the edge defenders face challenges in converting pressures into sacks. Carter had 66 pressures with only four sacks, Burns had 53 pressures for 16.5 sacks, and Thibodeaux converted 32 pressures into 2.5 sacks. Improved scheme and talent are expected to yield better sack numbers.
The unit also needs to bolster its run defense, having allowed 75 rushing plays of 10+ yards last season. The addition of inside linebackers Tremaine Edmunds and Arvell Reese is expected to help shore up the defense.
Coaching continuity under Charlie Bullen is seen as crucial for the development of Carter and Thibodeaux. If they can stay healthy, they are poised to challenge Burns for pass-rushing leadership and achieve greater overall growth.
