Giants minicamp is right around the corner, which means it's time to break down each position for Big Blue's new coaching staff to evaluate this preseason.
We'll continue with the outside linebackers...
Player Breakdown
Starters: Kayvon Thibodeaux (R), Azeez Ojulari
Depth: Quincy Roche, Jihad Ward, Oshane Ximines
Bubble/Practice Squad: Elerson Smith, Tomon Fox (R), Niko Lalos
Overview
Before we get to the man that everyone can't wait to see in Week 1, Ojulari himself a rookie season to remember.
He totaled eight sacks, 49 combined tackles, one forced fumble and 13 quarterback hits in a full 17 games. The Giants couldn't have asked more from their second-round pick, and he heads into his sophomore season looking to build on that solid foundation.
But, yes, it's Thibodeaux time. The Oregon product, the fifth overall pick to the Giants, has stated multiple times how he's ready to show the NFL what he's made of. New DC Wink Martindale said Thibodeaux was his "No. 1 guy" in the draft because of what he believes he can do in his scheme. The expectations are set high, but we don't need to tell you that.
On the depth end, Roche returns after flashing some great reps off the edge. He had 2.5 sacks, 38 combined tackles and five tackles for loss. He was quick off the edge and showed a motor on almost every rep. He should get some time on the field.
And then there's Ximines, whose time might be up to prove to the Giants they spent a third-round pick correctly. He had 4.5 sacks in his rookie year in 2019, but hasn't had one since. He didn't start a single game last year, playing in 10, and only had 13 tackles. It's now or nothing for him.