With the addition of edge rusher Brian Burns, acquired via trade from the Carolina Panthers early in free agency, the New York Giants’ defensive line appears vastly improved on paper.
PFF recently highlighted a positive takeaway for all 32 teams following the free agency period and unsurprisingly, it was that very D-line for the Giants.
NEW YORK GIANTS: THE DEFENSIVE LINE COULD BE ELITE
Dexter Lawrence is one of the best players in football, and Kayvon Thibodeaux has a ton of talent. The Giants still needed a bookend to alleviate the onus on him to be the premier pass rusher, though.
The team subsequently took a massive swing on Brian Burns. At his peak, Burns is a durable, elite pass rusher capable of taking over games. He just needs to play at that level more consistently to justify his massive new contract. One thing working in his favor is new defensive coordinator Shane Bowen’s scheme, which should allow Burns to play more often from a three-point stance as opposed to being an outside linebacker.
New defensive coordinator Shane Bowen’s scheme may not only benefit Burns’ style of play but Kayvon Thibodeaux’s as well.
Last season, Thibodeaux had 11.5 sacks and there were plenty of times where some felt he was being dropped back into coverage too much in Wink Martindale’s defense.
The addition of Burns is a big one for the Giants’ defense in general. However, Burns is also joining a talented defensive line — likely the best of his career playing alongside one of the league’s best in Dexter Lawrence.
The Giants’ defensive line has certainly improved on paper but we won’t know how elite that unit will be until they hit the field.
