The release of Antonio Pierce leaves the Giants without a proven or experienced middle linebacker, but if they want to pursue Cardinals linebacker Karlos Dansby, who won't be placed with the franchise tag for a third consecutive year by the team, they are going to have to go against their long-standing track record of steering clear of the most expensive players. Reports indicate that Dansby is seeking a contract that will guarantee him $30 million, and he could be on his way to becoming one of the highest-paid defensive players in league history. The Giants were aggressive spenders last year in free agency, but the refortification of the defense did not produce the desired results, they have never subscribed to a break-the-bank philosophy in free agency. "I think it's been proven that doesn't work," co-owner John Mara said following the disappointing 8-8 season. "If there are players we are interested in, we're going to go after them, but how many times do we have to see evidence of the fact spending a lot of money on free agents in the offseason doesn't necessarily improve your team? A lot of times it's about chemistry and having the right nucleus and having leadership in the locker room. We're going to look at the free agency market and make decisions where we think we can improve the team." Source: NY Post
Good to here. I like Dansby (for the right price), but if your going to break the bank do it on someone like Peppers, not Dansby.
:word: In my opinion, Dansby is worth at least $15-$20M guaranteed at the most. He has been one of the better linebackers since entering the league in 2004, but isn't quite in the same caliber as Patrick Willis or Jon Beason. But in a bleak UFA class of linebackers this offseason, someone just might give him that $30 Million hes seeking. I believe our best long term option is to home grow Pierce's replacement. Its been 26 years since we last drafted a linebacker in the first round (Carl Banks - 1984). Brandon Spikes and Rolando McClain are the cream of the crop in this years Inside Linebacker clbutt. Plug either of them in and watch them dominate for the next 10 years.
Yeah Peppers is worth that 30 Mil guarantee and not Dansby but i doubt that the Giants would make a move for Peppers since they need more help in the secondary than the D-line unless you guys are planning on getting rid of Osi. And something tells me that the Eagles are gonna make a strong run for him
I woundt give Peppers 30 Million guaranteed. Thats the type of money you give to a guy you are gonna build your D arund and peppers is too hot and cold to be that guy at this point
I agree. I'm not a big Peppers fan anyway, but just saying if we were going to go that route (handing away bank) I'd rather spend it on him than Dansby.
I think if they are gonna throw dough around, Wilfork should be the guy. No reason why he wouldnt want to go there. Big market, good team that he would make much much better, competitive division. He would also get much much more recognition in a 4-3
Couldn't have said it any better. If we decide to steer clear of Dansby or can't get something worked out with him, Wilfork could be the next guy on our list. Defensive Tackle is one of our biggest needs as well and Fred Robbins is almost on the verge of being cut. We didn't create much pressure up front in '09 and Wilfork is certainly a presence. He also wouldn't command as much up front as Dansby would. Plus Perry Fewell knows Wilfork pretty well coaching against him in Buffalo, he could push for him if we can't get something done with Dansby's people.
