Fansided

Power rankings and record predictions

By Matt Verderame

Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 26, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) against the Baltimore Ravens at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – JANUARY 03: Odell Beckham
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – JANUARY 03: Odell Beckham /

18. New York Giants

Few teams have a wider range of expectations going into the 2016 season than the Giants, who could finish anywhere from last to first and shock nobody. Perhaps fittingly, they fall right in the middle of our rankings.

The Giants were aggressive in the offseason, with general manager Jerry Reese likely realizing it is either now or never for him to continue his regime. New York went out and signed defensive end Olivier Vernon to an eye-popping $85 million over five years with $52 million guaranteed. only shortly after giving cornerback Janoris Jenkins $62  million on five years.

Reese was also trying to beef up the defense in the draft, taking Eli Apple with the 10th-overall pick. Apple should start immediately across from Jenkings, replacing the departed Prince Amukamara, who took a one-year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Offensively, the Giants are going to put up points. New York has a top-5 receiver in Odell Beckham Jr. to accompany the returning Victor Cruz. Add in the exciting second-round rookie Sterling Shepard, and Eli Manning should be throwing early and often. If the line holds up, this could be a top-tier offense.

Ultimately, the questions for Big Blue are all about the defense. If Vernon and Pierre-Paul can create enough of a pass rush, the Giants could be in the playoffs.

Record prediction: 8-8

Next: No. 17 Jacksonville Jaguars