New York Giants Free Agency: 3 Low Cost LBs Big Blue Should Consider

The New York Giants have been typically understated so far in free agency. However, their biggest need remains unanswered: The Giants must find linebacker help.

Despite their lack of cap space, the Giants are still able to choose from a collection of solid, low cost linebackers. The following three represent the teams' best options in free agency.

Stephen Cooper ILB, San Diego Chargers

Cooper would be an excellent pickup for the Giants defense. He is an intelligent and resourceful linebacker with the instincts and smarts to marshal New York's multiple defensive schemes.

Cooper possesses good size at 6'1" and 235 pounds. He has the versatility to operate in the middle or on the outside in Big Blue's 4-3 base.

His age and durability ranks as obvious concerns after the 32-year-old missed 10 games in 2011. However, the Giants could cover themselves against any risk by acquiring Cooper on a one-year contract, similar to the deal Martellus Bennett received.

Joe Mays ILB, Denver Broncos

Joe Mays has surprisingly not yet been retained by the Denver Broncos. At 5'11" and 250 pounds, the stout middle linebacker has the size and physicality to plug the middle in a 4-3 front.

The middle linebacker class has not garnered much attention so far in free agency. When it does, Mays will find himself behind the likes of Curtis Lofton and Stephen Tulloch. Yet, the 26-year-old could be a nice fit for Perry Fewell's base schemes.

Jameel McClain ILB, Baltimore Ravens

Jameel McClain is currently being courted by the Denver Broncos, according to NFL.com. If they can, the Giants should also make their own efforts to sign McClain.

At 6'1" and 245 pounds, McClain has the size to be a factor inside against the run. He is a fierce and decisive tackler and also offers decent blitz skills.

McClain is probably the most expensive option on this list. Yet the 26-year-old is still likely to be a cheaper alternative to likes of Lofton and Tulloch. 

The Giants have a definite need at linebacker, particularly in the middle. The three safety package and performance of their defensive line rotation has compensated for the most part.

However, more athletic and capable every down starters will be needed to help spearhead a title defense.