1. New York Giants
Last Year Record: 6-10
Key Additions: DE Oliver Vernon, CB Janoris Jenkins
Key Losses: WR Rueben Randle, CB Prince Amukamara, DE Robert Ayers
Big Games: Oct. 3 @ Minnesota, Oct. 9 @ Green Bay
The Giants spent a lot of money on defense in the offseason. They lost defensive end Robert Ayers, but replaced him with Oliver Vernon. To me that is an upgrade because Vernon is six years younger than Ayers. Vernon has yet to hit his prime and is only going to improve. The Giants also replaced cornerback Prince Amukamara with cornerback Janoris Jenkins. Janoris Jenkins is a shut down corner who does not get a lot of exposure for how good he is. This is partially because he played for the Rams who never win anything. The Giants defense is much improved this year and it should translate to wins.
Eli has been gifted with weapons all over the field. We all know how great Odell Beckham Jr. is, but Sterling Shepard, rookie from Oklahoma, is going to have a great year as well. He is a talented wide receiver who will greatly benefit from the attention Beckham will receive from opposing defenses. Victor Cruz is also still there and if he can stay healthy, will provide to be a valuable weapon for the aerial attack. The Giants have Rashad Jennings in the backfield as well. The offense for the Giants will put up close to 30 points a game and, with an improved defense, the Giants take this division at 10-6.