The New York Giants are rolling into pre-training camp with an inside linebacker unit that looks completely different this season, and man, it’s gonna be a ride. Team captain Bobby Okereke, who led the Giants in tackles last year, is gone. In his place, a whole new crew is stepping up under new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson. Get ready.
The Big Swaps: Who’s In, Who’s Out, and What It Means for the Defense
The biggest news out of the free agency gate was the Giants basically swapping out Okereke for Tremaine Edmunds. They inked Edmunds to a three-year, $36 million deal back in early March, a serious commitment right there. This guy was a former first-round pick for the Buffalo Bills in 2018 and even snagged two Pro Bowl nods during his five seasons there. He then moved to Chicago in 2023 but was released after just three seasons. Still, he’s seen as a perfect fit for the Giants’ aggressive defensive style, and you know what? He brings loads of postseason experience with him, which is huge for a team looking to make some noise. With inside linebacker coach Frank Bush, a 63-year-old with a 40-year career and two Super Bowl rings from his Broncos days, leading the unit, you’ve got to expect some serious veteran guidance.
Fresh Blood and Redemption Stories: Reese and McFadden Ready to Ball
It’s not just about the big free-agent splash. The Giants also went big in the draft, snagging Ohio State star Arvell Reese with the fifth overall pick this year. Experts pegged Reese as more of an outside backer, a pass-rushing specialist, but with plenty of veteran talent already rushing the passer, the Giants are starting him on the inside. They’re confident he’s just as effective there, and that’s a bold move for a top-5 pick. Then there’s Micah McFadden, who had some brutal luck last season, getting injured in the opener and missing the whole year. He was poised for a career-best year in 2025, which was also his contract year. Talk about a gut punch! But the Giants brought him back on a one-year deal this offseason. If McFadden can get right, he’s a solid presence on the inside and a valuable asset on both defense and special teams. That’s a serious comeback story waiting to happen.
Who’s Fighting for a Spot? The Rest of the Roster Scramble
Beyond the big names, there’s a serious battle brewing for those roster spots. Darius Muasau is another solid performer on both defense and special teams. He’s that perfect backup linebacker every team craves, and he should have an inside track on a spot this summer. But don’t sleep on the competition! The Giants also brought back Zaire Barnes, who bounced between the main roster and the practice squad last year. They signed ex-Jet and Kansas City backup Cam Jones in free agency, adding more depth. And keep an eye on BYU’s Jack Kelly, a sixth-round draft pick this year. Early returns are showing the Giants are really high on Kelly, which means he could surprise some folks. These guys are gonna have to bring it every single day if they want to make that 53-man roster.
The Giants kick off their season Sunday, September 13, at 8:20 p.m. ET, taking on the Dallas Cowboys. Talk about a way to start! You know the defense will be under the microscope, especially that completely revamped inside linebacker unit.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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