Giants in FA, Pt.8: Giants Sign 5 on Day One

On day 1 of Free Agency, the Giants seemed to unveil another iteration of their Year 2000 Plan.   Instead of giving out huge bonuses, they concentrated on the second tier -- and lower -- of the available talent.

They also picked talent they were already pretty familiar.  They signed two LB's, Jonathan Casillas and JT Thomas.  Spags had previously coached Casillas, and Thomas had a great game against the Giants last season.  They are both special teams pluses - which was pretty much a them today.

Dwayne Harris the WR/KR they signed from Dallas is an outstanding and sturdy pick and punt returner who's had some ball security issues, but has huge hands and is coming to a team with a coach who can correct those.  He's also a plus coverage guy and may or may not be an emerging force in the passing game.  He's already a good blocker for a WR when he's playing O.

Shane Vereen gives the Giants their latest chance to replace Meggett.   Tiki doesn't count because he was an every down back.  Vereen will be a third down back who catches balls and may run a draw or two.  He's not vertically explosive so D's might let him catch short passes all day as long as they can double and triple OBJ and Cruz.  We'll see what he can make of those opportunities.

The other guy they signed as a depth OL named Marshall Newhouse.  This is pretty much a replacment for Brewer and the heavy lifting on the OL as on safety, DT and pass rush has not started.

Solid day, didn't get worse unless Newhouse has to play.   Vereen and Harris could make some plays.