Shaun Rogers Signing with New York Giants Lets Big Blue Focus on Looking for DE

Now that the New York Giants have added veteran defensive tackle Shaun Rogers, as reported by the New York Post, the team is now set at defensive tackle.

This now lets the Giants further focus on finding a defensive end via the draft to potentially replace Osi Umenyiora, who has one year left on his contract and may be traded before next season begins.

Rogers boosts the depth at the interior of the defensive line and when healthy, is a considerable upgrade over free agents Rocky Bernard and Jimmy Kennedy. The 33-year-old, 6'4" 350-pounder gives the Giants the big bodied run plugger they have missed since the departure of Fred Robbins following the 2009 season.

Defensive end, on the other hand may not be as well-stocked and strong as it appears. Dave Tollefson left in free agency, costing Big Blue a key member of the rotation.

Mathias Kiwanuka could move back to end, but he plays an important role at linebacker in Perry Fewell's multiple front schemes. The linebacker unit still lacks elite quality and would be considerably weakened by the regular absence of Kiwanuka.

The situation is not helped by the ongoing saga surrounding Osi Umenyiora's future and the numerous hints at a trade. Yesterday ESPN reported that Umenyiora is not confident about getting a new contract and feels a trade would benefit both himself and the team.

These developments should encourage the Giants to use this draft to find a replacement. Jerry Reese rarely resists pass-rushing linemen, and it's hard to imagine him turning down a player like USC standout Nick Perry if he is still there at 32.

Then there is Marshall's Vinny Curry, a natural 4-3 end, or even Syracuse product Chandler Jones. If Reese decides to wait until the mid-rounds, Troy's Jonathan Massaquoi or Virginia's Cam Johnson could appeal.

When the team selected Jason Pierre-Paul, it seemed like a luxury pick, but he quickly overtook Umenyiora and emerged as a star. The line is what makes Big Blue's defense work, making adding another playmaker always a solid choice.

Signing Rogers is a useful, low-key move which solves the tackle rotation. Now it's time to boost the numbers at end.