The New York Giants haven't made the playoffs since winning the Super Bowl XLVI, but are poised to end their four-year postseason drought this year. Here are four reasons why they're guaranteed to make the playoffs:
4) Improved pass rush
New York's biggest priority this offseason was to improve their pass rush, and they accomplished that feat in free agency. Re-signing Jason Pierre-Paul was a good start (and he should be better after having more time to adjust to his hand injury), and they also landed Olivier Vernon, a promising young pass rusher from the Dolphins. It may be a bit of a gamble, but with Owa Odighizuwa expected to take a big step forward in his second season, the Giants now have a stable of talented rushers.
3) Victor Cruz's return
New York's passing attack was a one-trick pony last season - throw it to Odell Beckham and see what happens. The rest of their weapons didn't step up to take some of the pressure off Beckham or Eli Manning, but with that won't be the case with the return of Victor Cruz. He has looked very impressive in minicamp and OTAs, and if he can be just 80 percent of the player he was, he gives New York a legitimate No. 2 option they lacked in 2015.
2) Landon Collins' breakout season
The Giants' pass rush this season will be better than last year, which should help Collins. He was the team's second round pick last year, and had 112 tackles. While that number might be lower (and hopefully is so Collins isn't making tackles downfield), Collins should be better in coverage this year. He had one pick and one forced fumble last year - don't be surprised if he's making forcing more turnovers this year.
1) Improved secondary
Collins' breakout year will help with this, but New York also did a lot of overhaul their secondary. Janoris Jenkins was brought in to give them a needed cornerback to play with Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, giving them two quality players at the position. Throw in the addition of first-round pick Eli Apple, and the Giants have turned a weakness of theirs into a strength.
Follow our New York Giants news page for all the latest Giants news!
Back to the New York Giants Newsfeed