The New York Giants' Biggest Defensive Addition? Osi Umenyiora

Dan Benton by Correspondent Written on June 28, 2009
IRVING, TX - OCTOBER 16: Osi Umenyiora #72 of the New York Giants taunts quarterback Drew Bledsoe #11 of the Dallas Cowboys after hitting him on a pass play in the second half on October 16, 2005 at Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas.The Cowboys defeated the Giants 16-13 in overtime. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images) (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

A lot has been made of the New York Giants offseason acquisitions, especially those made along the defensive line. And why not? After all, the additions of Rocky Bernard and Chris Canty, in particular, give the Giants the best defensive line in the NFL—at least on paper.

But when the season actually begins and these players actually start to produce, it may not be Bernard, Canty, or even linebacker Michael Boley that have the biggest impact for Big Blue.

In fact, the key to their potential defensive success will actually come from someone who was already on the roster, but a player that has been somewhat overlooked because of a very good draft and solid free agency period.

Osi Umenyiora is a lot like a fantastic cleanup hitter in baseball. He's going to give the player in front of him, in this case, Justin Tuck, a lot of protection, and then he'll produce big numbers all on his own.

This isn't a knock on Mathias Kiwanuka, who is a fantastic defensive end in his own right, but he's no Umenyiora. And while he did a good job filling in for Chief Osi last season...

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Vote Now! - Author Poll

How many sacks will Osi have this season?

  • 5-8
  • 9-12
  • 13-16
  • 17+
vote to see results
Results - Author Poll

How many sacks will Osi have this season?

  • 5-8

    4.3%
  • 9-12

    31.5%
  • 13-16

    47.8%
  • 17+

    16.3%
  • Total votes: 92
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written on June 28, 2009 Opinion

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