Antrel Rolle Clears Up Giants' Draft Board

The New York Giants weren't planning on acting like their money was burning a hole in their collective pockets after last season's uncharacteristic spending spree ended up a monumental disappointment.

But after what transpired last season, it was apparent that a playmaker was needed.

With Antrel Rolle becoming the newest member of the Giants (five years, $37 million), it puts the team's braintrust in the advantageous position of targeting exactly what needs to be fixed. And with a deep crop of defensive linemen and inside linebackers available in next month's draft, it puts the Giants in a seemingly "can't-miss" position.

And for Jerry Reese, who's league-wide reputation as one of the best general managers took a bit of a hit last year, it's possible to project that he'll find himself into the discussion for "Executive of the Year" votes.

This is why Rolle's addition is so huge for the Giants: Should Kenny Phillips be close to performing at his customary level, the sky is the limit for this defense; provided they manage to stay healthy. This is a team that only needs two or three pieces to find themselves again. The next six weeks are tortuously long for a fanbase that finds itself immediately finds themselves giddy with anticipation.

The Giants are poised to return to their level of success because their defense can become anxiety-inducing again for their opponents again. Should they hit a homerun on their first two selections, you can state the case that they will be major players for a certain game in February.

Deep in the heart of Texas.