Fixing Giants Won’t Be Easy

If you believe in Eli;  last week’s decision to keep both General Manager Jerry Reese and Head Coach Tom Coughlin was a good one.  It could be argued that Eli, who just turned 33 last week, is headed into his most productive years as an NFL quarterback.  And if that’s the case the Giants do not want to mess around with the basic social structure which surrounds him and the team.  Of course there are changes to be made across the Giants entire organizational echelons. 

In fact, changes did begin last week with the announced retirement of Offensive Coordinator Kevin Gilbride.  Someone had to take the fall for the Giants 28th ranked offense and it was he who decided to fall on his sword.  Gilbride took the high road and walked away preserving his Giants legacy, which includes two Super Bowl rings, the development of a franchise quarterback and the highest scoring offense in team history.  The Giants need to replace him with someone who will inject new blood into what had become a stale, predictable attack.  New plays, new direction and some new enthusiasm are a must.

The Giants will be getting the number 12 pick in next year’s NFL Draft.  With all the holes needing to be filled, both offensively and defensively, they should think about trading down for a package which includes extra picks.  On offense, aside from Eli Manning, Victor Cruz, and Justin Pugh upgrades are necessary at most positions.   Defensively decision need to be made on a number of high cost veterans such as Justin Tuck, Terrell Thomas, Cory Webster and Aaron Reese.  Who to keep and who to get rid of could make or break this mainstay of Giants tradition.

Throughout NFL history the Giants organization has shown itself to be extremely patient with coaches and players alike.  And that patience has paid off with eight NFL Titles.  Problem is, in today’s fast passed NFL it’s difficult to stay patient for too long…