Breaking Down The 2024 NY Giants Linebacker Squad And Day 3 OTAs

2 Giant Goofballs: A NY Giants Podcast

The New York Giants' linebacker group for 2024 presents an intriguing mix of veteran talent and promising young players. Bobby Okereke, who turns 28 in July, stands out as a key figure. Standing 6’1” and weighing 235 lbs, Okereke was a 3rd round pick by the Colts in 2019 out of Stanford. After signing a four-year, $40 million contract with the Giants in 2023, he delivered a standout season with 149 tackles, 11 tackles for loss (TFL), 2.5 sacks, 6 QB hits, 2 interceptions, 10 pass deflections, and 4 forced fumbles, earning a 78.9 PFF grade. His contract initially seemed steep, but Okereke proved to be worth the investment, establishing himself as one of the best players on the team and the best linebacker the Giants have had in years. Despite a change in defensive coordinator, Okereke remains in his prime and is expected to be a cornerstone for several more seasons.
Micah McFadden, a 24-year-old linebacker standing 6’2” and weighing 232 lbs, was a 5th round pick in 2022 from Indiana. In 2023, he recorded 101 tackles, 12 TFL, 1 sack, 6 QB hits, 1 interception, 5 pass deflections, and 4 fumble recoveries, with a 65.6 PFF grade. McFadden has shown potential but also inconsistency, raising questions about his future role. As he enters his third year, the Giants will soon need to decide whether to extend his contract. Isaiah Simmons, who will turn 26 in July, adds versatility to the group. At 6’4” and 238 lbs, the 8th overall pick by the Cardinals in 2020 had a mixed 2023 season with 50 tackles, 2 TFL, 1 sack, and a game-winning interception returned for a touchdown. His ability to play multiple positions makes him a valuable asset.
The Giants also have Darrius Muassau, a 23-year-old rookie from UCLA, drafted in the 6th round in 2024. At 6’1” and 230 lbs, he recorded 75 tackles, 10.5 TFL, and 4 sacks in college last season, earning an 81.7 PFF grade. Muassau is expected to provide depth and special teams contributions, with his ceiling yet to be determined. Darrian Beavers, a 24-year-old linebacker at 6’4” and 255 lbs, was a 6th round pick in 2022 from Cincinnati but missed his rookie season due to an ACL injury. His ability to regain pre-injury form will be crucial for making the roster. Veteran Matthew Adams, 28, adds experience but limited production, having recorded 17 tackles and a 44.2 PFF grade last season with the Browns. Carter Coughlin, 26, primarily excels on special teams, having played 86% of special teams snaps over the past three years, but his defensive contributions have been minimal.
Considering potential free agency additions, the Giants should refrain from signing another linebacker unless injuries occur. Bobby Okereke is a standout, and while Shaq Leonard, with his Pro Bowl pedigree, could be an upgrade, it might hinder the development of players like McFadden. The goal should be to maintain a balanced roster without blocking younger talents' growth.
The 2024 linebacker group is mostly the same as in 2023. Improvement will depend on player development and adaptation to the new defensive scheme under Shane Bowen. The potential for growth is there, but it will be performance on the field that determines if this group surpasses last year's.
During OTAs Day 3, Daniel Jones took snaps during 7-on-7 drills.
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