Training camp is drawing near and the worst time of the year is slowly coming to an end. With the New York Giants ready to embark on another hopeful run toward the Lombardi Trophy, I will analyze the team and present my top 10 players on the Giants’ roster. This year’s rookies have been excluded as they bear no body of work yet in the NFL.
No. 5: Antrel Rolle
Position: FS
Age: 30
Seasons with the Giants: Four (signed as a free agent in 2010)
2012 in Review: Antrel Rolle put in another quality year in 2012 for the New York Giants, racking up a team-leading 96 tackles, two interceptions, one forced fumble and one recovery. The 30-year-old free safety continues to be a dependable asset in the Giants’ defensive backfield, even playing some slot corner when necessary without complaint.
Rolle’s play has become exemplary for an otherwise underwhelming defensive unit. His presence in the huddle is that of a leader — a valuable trait that appears to be missing at times in defensive captain, Justin Tuck.
Certainly, the fourth-year secondary player should have improved against the pass over time. Per Pro Football Focus, last season he allowed a 72.7 percent catch rate, which was the fourth worst among NFL safeties. However, he continues to be a stud against the run, an ability that was few and far between for the NFL’s 25th-ranked run defense.
Outlook for 2013: Rolle is getting older and it was obvious last season that he had lost a step. Not as dependable in coverage as he was previously, his 12 missed tackles were unsettling to see from such a sure hitter. On a suspect defensive unit, however, Rolle is still the most dependable player. There is never a question of his effort and his leadership boasts unappreciated value.
It is a near certainty that Rolle will appear in all 16 regular-season games for the G-Men. At this point in his career, it’s easy to predict what he’ll give you: 80-plus tackles, a couple of interceptions and some memorable hits on opposing ball carriers.
He may not earn a Pro Bowl selection, but even on the verge of turning 31, he is still among the top 10 safeties in the league. That’s not too shabby, even if he isn’t playing up to his contract’s value anymore.
Louis Musto is a reporter and sports talk host for the Sports Journey Broadcast Network. He is a member of the Pro Football Writers of America. You can follow him on Twitter @LouisMusto.